The STEM Space

Show Summary:

Get ready for a deep dive into this year’s smartest Prime Day finds from Vivify STEM! In this episode, Claire spotlights her top picks to save you some money! From hands-on learning kits like Snap Circuits and the Smartphone-Controlled Paper Airplane, to classroom must-haves including science posters, thermal imaging cameras, and fluorescent light covers. Whether you're an educator, parent, or STEM enthusiast, she's curated a collection of innovative tools, quirky supplies, and helpful gear to level up any learning space. Tune in for a fun breakdown of each product and why it deserves a spot in your cart before the deals disappear!

These will be published to our Amazon Store under “Prime Day 2025 Picks” on July 8, 2025!

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Show Summary:

Natasha sits down with Rolanda Baldwin, a dynamic leader whose 20+ years in math education are transforming the way we think about numbers. Rolanda’s journey is nothing short of inspiring: from her early days as a classroom teacher and instructional coach in North Carolina, to serving as a district curriculum coordinator, and then rising through the ranks at UnboundEd from math specialist to Math Director. Now, as Vice President of Program Design, she’s spearheading the development of cutting-edge math and UPP programs that are setting new standards in education.

Discover how Rolanda’s passion is empowering every learner to see themselves as “math people.” Through her groundbreaking GLEAM framework - delivering Grade-Level, Engaging, Affirming, and Meaningful instruction - she equips educators with the tools to re-engineer math education and ignite a lifelong love of learning. Tune in to catch insights that are as transformative as they are practical!

About Rolanda Baldwin: With two decades of experience, Rolanda has worn many hats throughout her journey. She's been a middle and high school math teacher, a math instructional coach, and a district math curriculum coordinator in a large North Carolina district. Rolanda's love for mathematics education led her to join UnboundEd as a math specialist, where she rose to the role of Math Director. Today, she proudly serves as the Vice President of Program Design, where she's responsible for overseeing the growth and development of UnboundEd's entire math and UnboundEd Planning Process (UPP) program portfolio.

Rolanda’s thoughtful approach to program development and active involvement in strategic organizational initiatives and external partnerships are testaments to her sincere commitment to her craft. Her enthusiasm for mathematics education is infectious, and she's dedicated to empowering every individual to become a "math person." Rolanda is passionate about reshaping educational systems and frameworks to help educators plan and deliver grade-level, engaging, affirming, and meaningful math instruction.

About UnboundEd:UnboundEd is a trailblazing force in education, partnering with passionate educators to transform classrooms into hubs of high-quality, dynamic learning where every single student thrives. By championing innovative, research-based frameworks like GLEAM, UnboundEd is redefining the teaching landscape and inspiring educators to push the boundaries of what's possible in shaping tomorrow’s learners.

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Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

187. How to Make Math Meaningful ft. Ki Karou of MIND Education

180. The Secret to Loving Math ft. Nichole Austion of the National Math and Science Initiative

179. Seeing Students as Mathematicians ft. Cherelle McKnight of Illustrative Mathematics

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Show Summary:

Natasha and Claire return to unpack an essential question for STEM educators: Should you be using the Design Process or the Engineering Design Process in your classroom? With a mix of practical advice and personal stories, they explore how each approach supports creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning. Whether you're a seasoned STEM teacher or just getting started, you'll hear thoughtful insights on when to emphasize open-ended design thinking versus structured problem-solving. Plus, the hosts dive into the importance of developing key “making” skills—like prototyping, tool use, and collaborative iteration—to empower students as confident creators and problem solvers. Tune in for a conversation that will help you make informed decisions to best support your students' growth as future innovators.

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Show Summary:

Have you used ST Math in your classroom? In today’s episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Ki Karou, Senior Director of Product at MIND Education, creators of this game-based math program. Their goal is to challenge students through active, visual learning and critical thinking that teaches students not only to learn math, but how to think. Tune in on a great conversation including how Ki believes we should shift from “real-world” problem solving to “meaningful” problem-solving.

About Ki Karou:Ki Karou, senior director of product at MIND Education, overseeing an entire team that is all about practical, low-lift strategies for sparking meaningful math conversations in any classroom—no extra prep, no fancy materials needed. It’s super actionable stuff for teachers who want to make math more collaborative and engaging without blowing up their lesson plans.

About Mind Education: MIND Education is transforming math learning with neuroscience-driven, game-based programs like ST Math, designed to make math visual, intuitive, and accessible. With over 25 years of research-backed solutions, they empower students to develop deep conceptual understanding and build confidence in problem-solving. Their mission is simple: help students think, not just memorize, creating meaningful learning experiences that change how math is taught and understood.

Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

180. The Secret to Loving Math ft. Nichole Austion of the National Math and Science Initiative

179. Seeing Students as Mathematicians ft. Cherelle McKnight of Illustrative Mathematics

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Ki Karou | LinkedIn

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“And you think they’ll qualify for Bletchley because they’re good at crossword puzzles?” Imitation Game clip

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Show Summary:

What happens when you bring physical education into the STEM classroom? In this episode of The STEM Space, we’re joined by Naomi Hartl, Education Strategist at School Specialty, who is excited about the possibilities of exactly that! With a teaching background that spans subjects such as biology, math, health, and PE, Naomi shares her passion for integrated learning that supports the whole child. She describes a favorite lesson that blends sports movement with physics and walks us through the surprising overlaps between PE and STEM standards. I think you will enjoy this energizing conversation that may spark ideas on how to bring health and wellness into your STEM classroom!

About Naomi Hartl:Naomi Hartl is on a mission to transform education. With a diverse background spanning biology, mathematics, health education, physical education, home economics, and career education, she brings a wealth of expertise to the table. A proud graduate of the University of Saskatchewan, Naomi began her teaching journey in her home province before taking her passion for learning to Oregon, USA. Since joining School Specialty in 2015, she has played a pivotal role in curriculum development and writing, ultimately stepping into her current role as Education Strategist for PE, Health & Wellness, and HS Science. Driven by a commitment to empowering educators and students, Naomi curates innovative solutions that foster safe, equitable, and impactful learning experiences. Her work is shaping the future of education—one inspired classroom at a time.

About School Specialty: School Specialty is a leading provider of educational products, services, and solutions designed to support student success. With a comprehensive portfolio that includes classroom supplies, furniture, curriculum resources, and professional development, they help schools create engaging and effective learning environments. Their mission is to empower educators and students by delivering innovative tools that enhance teaching and learning experiences.

Links from the Show:

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164. STEM Overload: A STEM Space Q&A

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Naomi Hartl | LinkedIn

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PE Standards

Science Standards - NSTA and ISTE

Arduino

Raspberry Pi

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Show Summary:

How do we help kids make better decisions, such as in  STEM challenges? In this episode of The STEM Space, we’re joined by Ramin Mohajer and Alison Stumacher from the Alliance for Decision Education. Ramin, a former corporate attorney turned nonprofit leader, is the Deputy Director of Organizational Development and believes students need cognitive tools—not just rules—to manage choices like screen time. Alison, a longtime educator, now works as the Deputy Director of Education to bring Decision Education into classrooms to help students navigate choices in school, relationships, and life.

Enjoy this thought-provoking conversation that may spark new ways to support your students as confident, capable decision-makers.

About Ramin Mohajer:Ramin, Deputy Director of Organizational Development at the nonprofit Alliance for Decision Education, believes that decision-making skills are the missing piece in this conversation. Rather than relying solely on school-wide cellphone bans, educators can equip students with the cognitive tools to regulate their own screen use—an essential skill for future scientists, engineers and problem-solvers.

About Alison Stumacher: Alison, Deputy Director of Education at the Alliance for Decision Education, is focused on ensuring that all students have access to the skills and tools they need to make better decisions. With over two decades in education across classroom teaching, instructional coaching, and leadership roles, she now works on developing solutions to bring Decision Education into classrooms—helping students build the skills they need to navigate choices in school, relationships, and life.

About the Alliance for Decision Education: The Alliance for Decision Education is a national nonprofit dedicated to making decision-making skills a core part of K-12 education. They believe that better decisions lead to better lives and work with educators and experts to equip students with essential cognitive tools, empowering them to navigate challenges both in and out of the classroom. Through innovative curricula and community initiatives, the Alliance is transforming education to foster confident, capable decision-makers for a better society.

Links from the Show:

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Show Summary:

Natasha sits down with Jonathan Schor, visionary co-founder and CEO behind CodeMonkey. This award-winning, game-based platform isn’t just fun; it equips students with real-world coding skills in a way that makes computer science accessible and exciting for every classroom. Discover how Jonathan’s leadership has propelled CodeMonkey into a globally trusted tool for educators, and get inspired by his journey as he shares the impact of this groundbreaking platform and what the future holds for K-12 coding. Tune in now and get ready to re-imagine the possibilities in your classroom!

About Jonathan Schor, CEO of CodeMonkey: Jonathan Schor is the driving force behind CodeMonkey, an award-winning game-based platform that teaches real-world coding skills to students in a fun and engaging way. With a passion for making coding accessible to learners of all ages, Jonathan has helped shape CodeMonkey into a global tool for educators looking to bring computer science into their classrooms. Under his leadership, CodeMonkey has reached millions of students worldwide, empowering the next generation of problem-solvers and creators. We’re excited to dive into Jonathan’s journey, the impact of CodeMonkey, and what’s next for coding in STEM education.

About CodeMonkey: Write Code. Catch Bananas. Save the World. CodeMonkey was founded in 2014, based on Jonathan’s successful experiences in teaching young children to code through playful activities. Today, at CodeMonkey brings fun, knowledge and opportunity into the lives of millions of learners around the world. CodeMonkey envisions a global playful learning experience where the next generations of coders are born and raised. CodeMonkey aims to create an engaging platform where programming knowledge is acquired alongside 21st century skills through collaboratively playing and solving puzzles, inventing, creating and sharing.

Links from the Show:

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Show Summary:

Claire is back — and she’s taking us to the edge of space!Listen in as she shares the behind-the-scenes story of launching a weather balloon nearly 89,000 feet into the atmosphere! Despite flooding in Texas, a helium tank mix-up, and a few unmotivated students, her class pulled off one of the ultimate STEM challenges: a high-altitude balloon mission with a successful recovery! Tune in to hear what happened to the onboard science experiment, and get all the details on how to plan your own stratospheric STEM adventure.

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

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Show Summary:

In this episode, Natasha chats with UCLA researchers Dr. Jean Ryoo and Dr. Jane Margolis—leaders on the frontlines of broadening K–12 computer science education. Their research inspired Power On!, a graphic novel that follows four high school students confronting technology’s harmful impact, urging young readers to evolve into critical creators rather than passive users. Dr. Ryoo champions culturally responsive computing by amplifying minoritized student voices, while Dr. Margolis—an advocate for equity since 1994 and a White House Champion of Change honoree—brings decades of experience to the conversation. Tune in for a dynamic discussion on empowering students to thoughtfully navigate and shape the future of technology.

About Dr. Ryoo: Dr. Jean Ryoo is the Director of Research at UCLA’s Computer Science Equity Project, championing equity in STEM by amplifying minoritized voices. Her work transforms research into action—highlighted by Power On!, a graphic novel published by MIT Press—and she collaborates with initiatives like Girls Who Code and the Exploratorium’s Tinkering Studio. An AERA Jan Hawkins Early Career Award honoree with support from NSF, the Gates Foundation, and others, she earned her Ph.D. from UCLA, her Master’s in Teaching from Hawai’i, and her Bachelor’s from Harvard.

About Dr. Margolis: Dr. Jane Margolis is a transformative leader in equitable computer science education. As a Senior Researcher Emerita at UCLA, she’s been challenging the status quo since 1994 by championing the inclusion of women and students of color. Co-author of Power On! and the groundbreaking texts Unlocking the Clubhouse and Stuck in the Shallow End, she helped launch the UCLA CS Equity Project and build a lasting partnership with LAUSD. Named a White House Champion of Change in 2016, Margolis’s work continues to redefine who gets to shape our digital future.

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

180. The Secret to Loving Math ft. Nichole Austion of the National Math and Science Initiative

178. Getting Kids to Think

164. STEM Overload: A STEM Space Q&A

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The STEM Space at Home Series | Vivify YouTube

Access 200+ STEM Lessons when you become a member of The STEM Space!

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Show Summary:

Natasha sits down with Dr. Erica Colón, the visionary behind NGS Magnified—formerly known as Nitty Gritty Science—to explore the profound impact of science education. Erica shares her journey of sparking curiosity in students and how that passion evolved into equipping educators with the tools to deliver engaging and accessible science instruction. She emphasizes that science doesn’t have to be complex to be meaningful—simple, hands-on activities can foster a deep appreciation for the natural world and inspire lifelong discovery. Throughout the conversation, Erica offers valuable insights on making science both fun and approachable, ensuring students and educators alike feel empowered in their learning journey.

About Erica: Dr. Erica Colón is a National Board Certified Teacher with over twelve years of teaching experience in 6th-12th grade secondary science, including Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Marine Science. In 2008 Erica earned her Master’s in Educational Administration but quickly realized her passion was working with science teachers. Erica returned to earn her Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in science and technology, and in 2012, she founded Nitty Gritty Science, LLC, where she continues to design and publish science curriculum which can be found in thousands of classrooms around the globe!

Dr. Colón also organizes and hosts the Champions For Science Virtual Conference Series for science educators, where extraordinary leaders, creators, and innovators in science education come together to focus on the most important matter – our students –the future CHAMPIONS FOR SCIENCE!

About NGS Magnified: NGS Magnified, formerly Nitty Gritty Science, is dedicated to making science engaging and accessible for both students and educators. With a focus on simplifying complex concepts, they provide interactive lessons, curriculum support, and professional development to empower teachers in the classroom. Their mission is to spark curiosity and deepen scientific understanding through creative teaching strategies and hands-on learning experiences.

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

180. The Secret to Loving Math ft. Nichole Austion of the National Math and Science Initiative

178. Getting Kids to Think

164. STEM Overload: A STEM Space Q&A

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

How to Host a Debate in Your Science Classroom

10 Simple Summer STEM Activities

Engineer a New Fruit! Genetics STEM Lab Activity

Vivify STEM Lessons

FREE! - Grocery Store STEM Scavenger Hunt

Manipulating Genetics: GMO STEM Unit + Classroom Debate (5E Model)

Other STEM Resources

NGS Magnified

Science in the Wild: 52 Fun Projects and Activities to Explore, Discover, and Learn from Nature | Book by Dr. Erica Colón

The STEM Space at Home Series | Vivify YouTube

Access 200+ STEM Lessons when you become a member of The STEM Space!

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