EducationScienceTechnology

Learning Unboxed

Annalies Corbin & NOVA Media

We hear, frequently, that the global education system is broken, and as a result, we spend billions of dollar trying to fix it. But the K-12 system isn’t actually broken at all – it’s working exactly as it was designed, 100 years ago, and it’s obsolete. So in Learning Unboxed, we will have a conversation about teaching, learning, and the future of work; we will reimagine, rethink, and redesign our educational system.

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Monday · 30 min
312. Build Learning Communities Around Every Child with Jess Alfreds
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Jess Alfreds, founder of Carolina Kids Co-op, a growing network of outdoor, community-centered homeschool programs. What began as Jess’s search for an academically rigorous, in-person learning option for her own daughter has grown into a model that puts relationships, student interests, and personalized learning at the center of education. Jess shares how Carolina Kids Co-op combines strong academics with outdoor learning, small communities, family involvement, and student choice. We also explore what traditional educators can learn from microschool environments, how students help shape their own learning experiences, and why preparing young people for both college and the workforce means giving them room to explore many possible futures. Join us to explore how educators and families can create learning environments where every child feels seen, heard, and valued. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How Carolina Kids Co-op grew from one family’s need into a multi-state learning model What defines a microschool and why smaller communities allow for more personalized learning Combining rigorous academics with outdoor, nature-connected education Giving students meaningful voice and choice in curriculum and class offerings Preparing students for college, careers, and changing pathways after graduation How educators can identify unmet needs and create meaningful change within any learning environment Resources: Carolina Kids Co-op’s Website Carolina Kids Co-op Facebook Carolina Kids Co-op Instagram Carolina Kids Co-op TikTok Produced by NOVA
October 12 · 29 min
311. Putting Students in the Driver’s Seat with Michael Finnegan
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we talk with Michael Finnegan, co-founder and CEO of Quantum Courses, about what science education can look like when students become active investigators instead of passive recipients of information. Drawing from his experience as a public school teacher, Montessori educator, and scientist, Michael shares how hands-on experimentation and the history of scientific discovery shaped his approach to learning. We also explore the growing world of micro learning environments and why their flexibility creates room for more engaging, student-centered experiences. Michael explains how Quantum Courses helps students build scientific understanding from first principles, following the experiments and questions that led thinkers like Galileo, Newton, Einstein, and others to major discoveries. Join us to explore how curiosity, autonomy, and hands-on learning can help students see themselves as scientists. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why micro learning environments can create more flexible, student-centered experiences How hands-on experimentation builds curiosity, autonomy, and scientific thinking Using the history of science to help students construct knowledge from first principles How Quantum Courses supports microschools, homeschoolers, and other flexible learning environments Balancing innovative learning approaches with academic standards like NGSS Why transdisciplinary stories can make science more meaningful and memorable Resources: Quantum Courses Childhood Education Innovations Blog The Homeschool Advantage Podcast Personus Consulting Blog Produced by NOVA
September 28 · 33 min
310. Build Fluent Readers Before Third Grade with Jessica Reid Sliwerski
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Jessica Reid Sliwerski, co-founder and CEO of Ignite Reading, to explore why waiting until third grade to address reading gaps is often too late. Jessica shares the case for a “first grade promise,” where schools commit to helping children become fluent, on-grade-level readers before they leave first grade. We also dig into how Ignite Reading combines daily one-on-one virtual tutoring, the science of reading, precise diagnostics, and ongoing data to support students and classroom teachers. Jessica explains why strong curriculum and teacher training alone may not provide the differentiation many young readers need, and how districts can build a stronger literacy ecosystem around them. Join us to learn how earlier, more targeted intervention can give every child a stronger start as a reader. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why first grade is a critical window for learning to read Moving beyond the traditional “read by third grade” benchmark Using high-dosage, one-on-one tutoring to close early literacy gaps Supporting teachers with precise diagnostics, differentiation, and actionable data Building stronger literacy systems through school and district partnerships Creating a “first grade promise” that gives every child the opportunity to become a fluent reader Resources: Jessica Reid Sliwerski’s LinkedIn Ignite Reading’s LinkedIn Produced by NOVA
September 14 · 28 min
309. Designing Schools for Agency, Not Compliance with Jason Blair
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we welcome back Jason Blair, arts educator and founder of the Agents of Change, to explore what happens when schools are designed around student agency instead of compliance. Jason shares how the festival brings students from across Central Ohio together to showcase learning rooted in voice, ownership, purpose, and authentic connection with their communities. We discuss why meaningful learning cannot simply be scaled through a one-size-fits-all model, and why educators should instead create conditions where ideas can spread and adapt to individual learners. Jason also shares how giving students authentic audiences builds confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of mattering. Join us to explore how listening to students, embracing experimentation, and letting go of control can create classrooms where learners truly come alive. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Designing learning environments around student agency rather than compliance Creating authentic audiences for student learning Helping educators move past fear and give students greater ownership Why successful educational ideas should spread and adapt rather than simply scale Viewing school as a place where students are continually becoming Building community support by making powerful student learning visible Resources: Agents of Change Produced by NOVA
August 31 · 30 min
308. Build Workforce Readiness Through Community with Chaz Van De Motter
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Chaz Van De Motter, Vice President of Operations at New Reach, to explore how community-based learning can help young people move more quickly from education to meaningful income. Chaz explains how New Reach combines education, live events, technology, mentorship, and peer support to create practical pathways into entrepreneurship, real estate, skilled trades, and other careers. We also discuss the skills students need to become workforce ready, including financial literacy, focused problem-solving, relationship-building, and the responsible use of AI. Chaz shares why access to information alone is not enough and how accountability, personalized guidance, and strong networks can help learners turn knowledge into action. Join us to explore how educators can prepare students to navigate new technologies, build career confidence, and take greater ownership of their futures. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Creating alternative pathways from learning to earning Building community, mentorship, and accountability into education Teaching financial literacy and entrepreneurship at an earlier age Helping aspiring entrepreneurs define their audience, value, and financing needs Preparing students to use AI responsibly in the workforce Replacing passive content consumption with practical, outcome-driven learning Resources: New Reach’s Website New Reach’s LinkedIn New Reach’s Instagram New Reach’s TikTok Produced by NOVA
August 17 · 30 min
307. Make Learning Meaningful Through Student Agency with Garrett Smiley
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Garrett Smiley, founder and CEO of Sora Schools, to explore how education can move beyond delivering content and give students meaningful reasons to learn. Garrett shares how Sora combines online learning with strong relationships, interdisciplinary projects, and opportunities for students to connect academic concepts to real-world interests and challenges. We also discuss what traditional public schools can learn from Sora’s model, including offering families multiple learning pathways, replacing high-stakes testing with mastery-based assessment, and giving students greater control over their schedules and projects. Garrett explains how meaningful, useful work helps young people develop the independence and confidence they need for college, careers, and life. Join us to explore how student agency and project-based learning can make education more relevant. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why access to more educational content has not automatically improved student engagement How Sora Schools combines online learning with community and meaningful relationships Using interdisciplinary projects to connect academic standards with real-world challenges Replacing high-stakes testing with mastery- and competency-based assessment How public schools can offer flexible pathways without losing their community role Helping students build agency, independence, and college readiness Resources: Sora Schools Connect with Garrett Smiley on Linkedin Produced by NOVA
August 3 · 30 min
306. Build Stronger School Leadership Support with Mike Caldwell
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Mike Caldwell, founder and CEO of LinkedLeaders, a platform designed to help K-12 school leaders find meaningful support when they feel isolated, overwhelmed, or stretched thin. Mike shares how a simple Facebook post offering support to struggling principals quickly revealed a much bigger need for accessible, personalized mentorship. Together, we explore how school leaders can move beyond one-size-fits-all support and tap into a “human library” of mentors, coaches, and experts who understand different contexts and challenges. Mike also shares how LinkedLeaders is helping organizations build stronger communities of support through mentorship, fireside chats, and challenge-based journeys. Tune in to learn how connection, choice, and community can help keep great leaders leading. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why so many school leaders feel isolated, overwhelmed, and stretched thin How LinkedLeaders grew from one Facebook post into a national support platform The value of a “human library” approach to mentorship and coaching Why school leaders need support beyond their immediate peer circles How organizations can build stronger communities for their members Using challenge-based journeys to help leaders find the right support Resources: LinkedLeaders Produced by NOVA
June 22 · 32 min
305. Teach Students to Question Data with Dr. Manfred Stapff
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Dr. Manfred Stapff, physician, researcher, author of Real-World Evidence Unveiled, and host of The Real-World Evidence Perspective. Together, we explore how educators can help students navigate a world overflowing with information, misinformation, statistics, and AI-generated answers. Dr. Stapff shares practical ways to teach learners how to evaluate data, trace information back to its source, and ask better questions before accepting something as true. From clinical trials and real-world evidence to ChatGPT, journalism, and old-school library research, this conversation is a thoughtful reminder that information literacy is now an essential life skill. Join us to explore how we can help students become more discerning, curious, and responsible users of information. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why reliable information matters for decision-making in education, medicine, politics, and everyday life How students can learn to question data, statistics, and sources before accepting them as true The difference between controlled scientific studies and messy real-world evidence How AI can help gather information while still requiring human judgment and critical thinking Why educators should teach learners to trace information back to original sources The growing responsibility of the receiver in evaluating misinformation and bias Resources: Real-World Evidence Unveiled: Navigating the Maze of Modern Misinformation by Dr. Manfred Stapff The Real-World Evidence Perspective on Spotify Dr. Manfred Stapff’s LinkedIn Candid Advisory Produced by NOVA
June 8 · 31 min
304. Build Community-Connected Learning Ecosystems with Laura Tavares
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Laura Tavares, Executive Director of the WPS Institute, to explore how learning ecosystems can help schools become more connected, relevant, and student-centered. Laura shares how WPS works alongside public schools, districts, and community partners to create real-world learning experiences that build agency, belonging, and purpose. We look at the work happening in Salem, Massachusetts, where a small middle school pilot grew into a broader model centered on student voice, learning immersions, design studios, and community partnerships. Laura also shares what it takes to scale this kind of work, from flexible scheduling and local partners to family advocacy and a clear shared vision. Join us to hear how communities can reimagine where, how, and with whom learning happens. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why schools need learning ecosystems rooted in connection, relevance, and student agency How Salem, Massachusetts scaled a middle school pilot into a broader community-connected model The role of learning immersions, design studios, and local partnerships in student engagement Why engagement is a foundation for achievement, especially in the middle grades How families, educators, and civic partners can help protect and grow innovative learning models Resources: Learn more about WPS Institute Explore NuVu’s project-based design studio model Visit MIT Morningside Academy for Design Produced by NOVA
May 25 · 30 min
303. Let Children Lead Through Entrepreneurship with Leah Ellis
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Leah Ellis, founder of the Society of Child Entrepreneurs, a nonprofit helping children ages six to 17 build real business, financial, and leadership skills through hands-on experience. Leah shares how watching her own daughter start a business at four years old sparked a bigger vision for helping children lead, create, and solve problems right now. We explore what happens when adults step back, ask better questions, and let young people make real decisions. Leah walks us through children’s business fairs, mastermind groups, problem spotting, financial literacy, and the power of letting kids learn from failure in safe, meaningful ways. Tune in to hear how entrepreneurship can help children build confidence, agency, and practical skills for life. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How the Society of Child Entrepreneurs helps children build business, money, and leadership skills Why adults should guide children with questions instead of managing their ideas What children learn through business fairs, product design, customer interaction, and failure How entrepreneurship builds confidence, resilience, and real-world problem-solving Ways educators and families can start small with market days, problem spotting, and “how” questions Resources: Society of Child Entrepreneurs Society of Child Entrepreneurs on Facebook Sparks to Stars: The Story of Astra & Zeke Acton Children’s Business Fair Kansas Leadership Center Search Institute’s Developmental Assets Produced by NOVA
May 11 · 30 min
302. Centering Student Agency Through Experiential Learning with Amy Besida
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Amy Besida, Chief Program Officer at Embarc, a Chicago-based organization helping schools bring learning beyond the classroom through real-world experiences, reflection, and community connection. Amy shares how Embarc grew from two teachers taking students outside their neighborhood into a full school-day model rooted in belonging, agency, and purpose. We talk about what it means to design experiences that help students understand who they are, what they value, and how they want to show up in the world. From corporate partner experiences to student reflection practices, Amy offers a thoughtful look at how schools can move beyond achievement culture and create learning that supports whole-human development. Join us to explore how experiential learning can help students feel seen, connected, and ready for what’s next. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How Embarc began as a teacher-led effort at Harper High School in Chicago Why experiential learning helps students build agency, identity, and belonging How reflection turns real-world experiences into deeper learning What schools can measure beyond traditional achievement data How community and business partners can co-create meaningful student experiences Practical ways educators can start with student interests, assets, and needs Resources: Embarc Chicago Embarc’s LinkedIn Embarc’s Instagram Embarc Impact Report This American Life: Harper High School, Part One UChicago Consortium on School Research: Student Attendance Education Reimagined Learner-Centered Ecosystem Lab Produced by NOVA
April 27 · 30 min
301. Build Student Voice Through Creativity with Betsy Potash
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Betsy Potash, former English teacher, curriculum creator, and host of the Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast. We explore how teachers can move away from teacher-centered instruction and create classrooms where students have more voice, choice, and ownership over their learning. Betsy shares practical strategies that help make that shift feel possible, including project-based learning, podcasting, silent discussion, and hexagonal thinking. We also talk about why creative structures matter, how they build confidence and engagement, and what it looks like to design learning that feels relevant beyond school. Join us to explore fresh ways to spark agency, discussion, and deeper thinking in the classroom. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How teachers can step out of the spotlight and create more student-centered learning Why agency, real-world context, and authentic audience increase engagement How hexagonal thinking helps students make connections across texts, ideas, and lived experience Why silent discussion creates space for every learner to participate and build confidence How contemporary, multimodal approaches can make ELA more relevant and creative Resources: The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast Toolkit for getting started with hexagonal thinking The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast Instagram Produced by NOVA
April 13 · 36 min
300. Design Learning That Sparks Confidence with Ashley Price
In this milestone 300th episode of Learning Unboxed, we celebrate with Ashley Price, Director of Student Experiences and All Things Summer and Out-of-School Programming at the PAST Foundation. Together, we explore how immersive, student-centered learning helps young people build confidence, discover new interests, and connect classroom skills to real-world challenges in meaningful ways. We also dig into what makes these experiences work: student voice and choice, transdisciplinary design, authentic audiences, and the freedom to fail forward. Ashley shares how small shifts in practice can help educators create learning spaces that feel more engaging, relevant, and joyful for students. Join us to explore how we can make school feel a little more like summer camp and a lot more like real learning. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How student voice and choice shape deeper engagement and confidence Why real-world, transdisciplinary challenges make learning more meaningful How authentic audiences help students grow as communicators and creators Why failure, revision, and redesign are essential parts of learning What educators can do to bring informal learning practices into formal classrooms Resources: Student Experiences at PAST Foundation Produced by NOVA
March 30 · 30 min
299. Reimagining Reading Through Visual Design with Hillary Summerbell
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Hillary Summerbell, founder and CEO of Summerbell, a literacy technology company transforming how visual dyslexic learners experience reading. Drawing from her own struggles, Hillary shares how rethinking text layout through her positional reading arc can reduce overwhelm, improve comprehension, and build confidence. We explore how a simple shift in formatting can unlock access for millions of learners and why dyslexia is often misunderstood as a comprehension issue rather than a visual one. Hillary also walks us through the development of her technology and its potential as both a classroom tool and diagnostic support. Join us as we rethink what reading can look like and how design can make learning more equitable for all. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How visual dyslexia impacts reading and learning The science and design behind positional reading arcs Using technology to reduce visual clutter and increase comprehension The importance of equitable literacy tools in classrooms Reimagining education through creativity and learner-centered design Resources: Summerbell Literacy Tools: (Explore the reading and writing tools designed for visual dyslexic learners) Summerbell Chrome Extension Summerbell Research Page Johns Hopkins School of Education Produced by NOVA
March 16 · 40 min
298. Reimagining Public Education Through Microschools with ECPPS Microschool
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Keith Parker, Colina Bartlett, Tiffany Dudley, and Kelly Cowell from the ECPPS Microschool in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Together, they share the story behind launching an innovative public microschool designed to reimagine what learning can look like for today’s students. With small cohorts, flexible learning environments, and a strong emphasis on relationships and real-world experiences, the team is building a student-centered model rooted in curiosity, collaboration, and community. We explore how the district moved from listening to community needs to rapidly designing and launching a new learning environment in less than a year. The conversation highlights the role of educators as guides, the power of project-based learning, and the importance of removing bureaucratic barriers to innovation. At its heart, this microschool is about creating meaningful choices for families and ensuring public education continues to evolve for the future. Join us to explore what’s possible when a community decides to do school differently. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why districts are turning to microschools to reimagine public education and create new options for families How student-centered learning, project-based experiences, and the “guide” model shift the role of teachers and empower learners What it takes for a school district to remove bureaucratic barriers and experiment with new models that better prepare students for a changing world Resources: ECPPS Microschool – Learn more about the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools microschool initiative Ascent Microschool – The innovative school model in Austin, Texas that inspired the ECPPS team’s design work North Carolina School Boards Association – Learn more about the organization that hosts the annual conference where ECPPS students presented their work Rock by Rock – Explore the project-based science learning program used by the microschool Produced by NOVA
March 2 · 29 min
297. Build Grit Through Youth Entrepreneurship with Krystal Popov
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Krystal Popov, founder of Futurepreneur, a program designed to help kids ages 6–16 turn creativity and tech skills into real-world ventures. Drawing on her own journey as a serial entrepreneur and parent, Krystal shares why entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting businesses, but about building problem-solvers who can thrive in a rapidly changing world. We explore the core skills at the heart of her work: seeing problems as opportunities, developing grit, and learning to communicate with confidence. Krystall walks us through how her “business-in-a-box” kits guide kids through branding, budgeting, marketing, and sales while engaging families and communities along the way. From lemonade stands to neighborhood helper services, these experiences help young people set goals, stick with challenges, and discover where they shine. Join us to explore how entrepreneurship can reshape learning for the next generation. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Why entrepreneurship builds problem-solving, resilience, and leadership skills Engaging families and communities in authentic learning experiences Barriers to entrepreneurship in traditional school settings and how to navigate them Resources: Follow Krystal Popov on Facebook and Instagram Futurepreneur – Explore youth entrepreneurship kits and programs Free Futurepreneur™ Starter Kit: Teach Your Kid to Dream Free Kid Biz (Lemonade Stand Freebie) – Download a starter business plan Lehman Academy of Excellence – Learn more about the charter model mentioned Produced by NOVA
February 16 · 32 min
296. Building Citywide Learning Ecosystems with Belén Quellet
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re joined by Belén Quellet, Executive Director of The Learning Quest, to explore what it really looks like to turn an entire city into a learning environment. Belén shares how Falls Church, Virginia is becoming an open-walled learning ecosystem where curiosity, repair, and real-world problem solving guide learning far beyond the classroom. Together, we dig into learner voice, community partnerships, and why experiences like repair clinics, education passports, and local internships matter just as much as traditional academic pathways. Belén also reflects on shifting definitions of success, the future of work, and the importance of helping parents reimagine what learning can look like for their children. This conversation is a thoughtful look at how communities can stitch together existing resources to support agency, exploration, and lifelong learning. Join us to explore what’s possible when learning truly belongs to everyone. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: What a citywide learning ecosystem looks like in practice How repair and sustainability spark curiosity and problem solving Elevating learner voice through real community roles Rethinking credit, credentials, and success beyond classrooms Building trust with parents around nontraditional learning paths Resources: The Learning Quest Education Reimagined: Learn more about learner-centered education and ecosystem labs nationwide Repair Café: Discover how community repair events support sustainability and hands-on learning Acton Academy: Learn more about learner-driven education models influencing Learning Quest’s work Produced by NOVA
February 2 · 23 min
295. Building Resilient Minds in Education with Ishan Shivanand
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Ishan Shivanand, founder of Yoga of Immortals and author of the international bestseller The Practice of Immortality. Together, we explore why resilience training and inner work are becoming essential supports for students and educators navigating rising levels of stress, burnout, and disconnection. Ishan shares how his research-backed, non-pharmaceutical approach blends breathwork, meditation, and cognitive awareness to improve mental health and overall well-being. Our conversation digs into what resilience training actually looks like in practice and why even small, consistent moments of awareness can make a measurable difference in learning environments. We also discuss how schools can integrate these tools in culturally respectful, non-theological ways that support both students and teachers. Join us to explore how building resilient minds can reshape the future of learning. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: The growing mental health challenges facing students and educators Research-backed resilience training and its impact on learning Burnout, anxiety, and sleep issues in high-performing students Practical ways to integrate mindfulness into classrooms Why inner work is a lifelong skill, not an add-on Resources: The Practice of Immortality by Ishan Shivanand Yoga of Immortals – Learn more about the research-backed mental health program and its applications in education Peer-reviewed research in Frontiers in Psychiatry Produced by NOVA
January 19 · 28 min
294. Building an Industry-Driven Tech High School with Nathan Gorsch
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we’re reconnecting with returning guest and “serial school starter” Nathan Gorsch, executive director and principal of the Colorado Springs School of Technology. Nathan shares how his experience launching Village High School shaped the vision for this new, industry-driven high school designed around immersive, future-focused learning. We explore how a powerful coalition of district leaders, higher education, and local industry came together to create a tech-focused ecosystem serving both students and the regional workforce. We also dig into what school actually looks and feels like for students: flexible, workplace-inspired spaces, pathway-based coursework in aerospace, cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and leadership, and short, high-impact industry sprints led by professionals. Nathan reflects on why ethical leadership matters just as much as technical skills—especially in fields like AI—and hints at what’s coming next in the broader innovation zone. Join us to explore how schools can truly partner with the community to prepare students for emerging careers. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: Launching the Colorado Springs School of Technology as an industry-driven innovation high school Lessons learned from Village High School and applying them in a new context Designing flexible, workplace-inspired learning spaces and student-centered pathways Monday “industry sprints” with professionals in branding, ethics, design thinking, and rocketry Embedding ethical leadership and social responsibility into high-tech career preparation Envisioning an innovation zone with future medical, public service, and middle school models Resources: Colorado Springs School of Technology – Explore the school’s pathways in aerospace, cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and leadership to see how an innovation high school can partner with industry. Village High School – Look into Nathan’s first school startup to understand the blended, learner-agency model that inspired this next chapter. Colorado Springs School District 11 – Learn more about the district context and its commitment to a school of innovation and a broader innovation zone. Challenger Learning Center – Check out their 3D printing, rocketry, and aerospace experiences that support hands-on learning for CSSOT students. DECA– Discover how student participation in business and marketing competitions builds real-world skills and confidence. Portfolio School (NYC) – Explore other innovative school models experimenting with short, intensive projects and student-centered design. Follow Nathan Gorsch on LinkedIn Produced by NOVA
January 5 · 29 min
293. Rebuilding Teen Motivation and Daily Habits with Sean Geraghty
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Sean Geraghty, founder of Reset Coaching and co-founder of the Center for Teen Flourishing, to explore what today’s teens truly need to thrive. Sean walks us through the research behind how young people spend their time from 3 PM to 3 AM, highlighting the growing displacement of in-person connection, hobbies, work, and other meaningful activities by passive screen use. Together, we dig into why this shift matters and what opportunity costs families often overlook. We also unpack the misconceptions around motivation and executive function—especially for teens with ADHD or chronic overwhelm—and how small, personalized strategies can lead to big wins. Sean shares practical insights from coaching, research, and behavioral science that help teens re-engage with life in authentic, sustainable ways. Join us to learn more about building healthier habits, supporting agency, and helping young people flourish. To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org We unbox: How teens’ after-school hours have shifted from real-life engagement to digital distraction The opportunity costs of screen time and why time-use matters What motivation and executive function actually look like for ADHD and overwhelmed teens Why personalized systems outperform one-size-fits-all strategies Resources: I’ll Do It Later: Surviving School and Renewing With Love With Your ADHD Son by Sean Geraghty & Mike Goldstein — A practical guide for parents supporting ADHD learners. The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt — Explore the research shaping national conversations around teens, mental health, and technology. Center for Teen Flourishing — Learn more about ongoing research into teens’ daily habits and wellbeing. Reset Coaching — Discover executive function strategies and coaching support for teens and young adults. American Time Use Survey (ATUS) — A national data source on how Americans spend their time, including trends among teens. Produced by NOVA

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