In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh Newman and Heather Hough delve into the complexities of California's education funding, particularly focusing on the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF). They discuss the historical context leading to LCFF's implementation, the challenges faced in the wake of the pandemic, and the ongoing need for a balance between local control and state leadership in education. The conversation also touches on the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), the importance of mental health in schools, and the potential for learning from other states and countries to improve California's educational system. Finally, they explore the governance structures in place, debating the merits of an appointed versus an elected Secretary of Education.

In this episode, Josh welcomes Dr. Karen Anderson to discuss her role in leading Alabama's Office of Mathematics Improvement, focusing on the transformative efforts under the Alabama Numeracy Act. She shares insights on the importance of engaging teachers and students in mathematics, overcoming resistance to educational reform, and the significance of professional development. Dr. Anderson emphasizes the use of data to drive instructional improvement and the pivotal role of math coaches. She also highlights the need for a positive mindset towards math, the state's progress in math scores, and the future initiatives aimed at enhancing math education. The conversation touches on the integration of technology and AI in education, as well as the real-world applications of math skills.

In this episode of the Edumyseat podcast, host Josh Newman welcomes Dan DeJager, an award-winning physical education teacher, to discuss the critical role of physical education (PE) in the educational framework. They explore the importance of PE in promoting mental health, the challenges faced in the post-COVID era, and the need for a balanced approach to structured and unstructured play. Dan shares insights on the impact of PE on students' lives, the debate surrounding dodgeball, and the significance of fitness testing. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of keeping physical activity enjoyable and accessible for all students, particularly against the backdrop of intensifying youth sports specialization.

In this episode, Tim Ranzetta, founder of NextGen Personal Finance, discusses his journey in advocating for financial literacy education in California. He shares insights on the challenges faced in implementing a financial literacy curriculum, the importance of teacher training, and the successful ballot initiative that led to a new graduation requirement. Tim emphasizes the need for engaging students and teachers in the conversation about personal finance, highlighting the positive impact it can have on families and communities.

This week, Josh sits down with Dr. Debbie Rhea to explore how structured recess and whole-child education can transform school culture, student behavior, and academic outcomes. They dive into the origins of the Liink Project, the neuroscience behind movement and attention, and the policy implications for California’s K–12 system. It’s a timely conversation for educators, parents, and policymakers alike.

In this episode, Elizabeth Cushing, CEO of Playworks, discusses the critical role of unstructured play and recess in children's development and education. She emphasizes the benefits of play, including social skills, conflict resolution, and leadership development. The conversation also touches on legislative efforts to ensure recess is mandated in schools, highlighting the importance of creating a supportive environment for both students and teachers.

This week on The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh sits down with Nick Melvoin, a member of the Board of Education for the Los Angeles Unified School District. From his early days as a classroom teacher to his current role shaping policy for more than a half million students, Nick brings a reformer’s lens to the challenges of public education in LA. Nick and Josh discuss the complexities of district governance, the role of data and transparency, and what it takes to drive real change in the nation’s second-largest school system. Whether you're an educator, policymaker, or parent, this conversation offers sharp insights and candid reflections on the current state and the future of public schools.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, host Josh Newman speaks with Dr. Amy Alzina, Superintendent/Principal of Cold Spring Elementary School District and 2024 ACSA Superintendent/Principal of the Year, about how artificial intelligence is reshaping the possibilities for public education—even in California’s smallest districts. Dr. Alzina shares how she’s using AI-integrated planning tools to personalize instruction, streamline operations, and expand access to STEAM learning. From disaster recovery to data-driven decision-making, she offers a compelling vision for how small districts can lead big on innovation. The conversation dives into the ethics of AI in schools, the importance of human-centered design, and how urgency and access must guide every tech-forward solution. Whether you're an educator, a policymaker, or a parent, this episode offers a grounded look at how AI can serve—not replace—the people at the heart of public education.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh sits down with Hedy Chang, founder and executive director of Attendance Works, to explore the urgent issue of chronic absenteeism in America’s schools. With millions of students missing 10% or more of the school year, Hedy breaks down how attendance is more than just a roll call—it’s a reflection of systemic barriers, family challenges, and school climate. Together, they unpack the data, the policy gaps, and the human stories behind the numbers. From post-pandemic recovery to actionable strategies for educators and lawmakers, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the root causes of student success.

In this, the debut episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, host Josh Newman sits down with Renata Simril, President and CEO of the LA 84 Foundation and the Play Equity Fund, to explore why play, sports, and movement are essential—not optional—for California’s kids. They dive into the Foundation’s mission, its impact on youth development, and their support for SB 291 (2023), a bill championing statewide recess standards. Renata also shares insights on AB 715, a new initiative to study access to sports across California. It’s a conversation about access, urgency, and the power of play to transform education and kids’ lives.