Articles and Podcasts

Reflections on learning differently

Clear, grounded thinking for parents and educators who want school to feel structured, humane, and responsive to each child.

Browse by type

Search archive

Podcast

Beyond the Classroom: Building Community at Brilliant Microschools

In this episode of Tiny Talks, Patrick Tzakalako speaks with Katie Campos, Director of Student Engagement at Brilliant Microschools, about building connection and a sense of belonging in a virtual school environment. Drawing from her six-year journey from first-time classroom teacher to a role aligned with her strengths, Katie shares how meaningful relationships can be fostered beyond the classroom. The conversation explores a range of initiatives—from afterschool clubs and family events to parent forums, city-based meetups, and in-person field trips—designed to bring students and families together. Through these efforts, Katie highlights how community, consistency, and intentional engagement can transform the virtual learning experience and create a strong, supportive school culture.

Podcast

From Brick-and-Mortar to Brilliant Microschools: Principals Share Their Journey

In this episode of Tiny Talks, Patrick Tzakalako speaks with principals Gina Yorko and Kelly Radigan about their transition from traditional education to Brilliant Microschools. They share how burnout, rigid systems, and lack of flexibility led them to more student-centered learning environments. The discussion explores virtual leadership, building community, and key skills like autonomy and time management. Through student success stories and current initiatives, they highlight how confidence and engagement can be restored, ending with an optimistic view on the future of education.

Podcast

Triumph Over Adversity ⏤ Andrew’s Journey From Brilliant Microschools to College

In this episode of Tiny Talks with a Microschool Principal, host Jordan Knoetgen converses with Jody, the mother of Brilliant Microschool's first graduate to attend college. They discuss Andrew's transformative experience from struggling in traditional school due to dyslexia and ADHD, to thriving in the supportive and personalized environment of Brilliant Microschool, and finally excelling at Louisiana State University. The conversation highlights the importance of self-confidence, individualized attention, and early preparation in Andrew's academic success.

Podcast

Navigating ADHD & Education ⏤ A Parent’s Perspective

In the latest episode of Tiny Talks with a Microschool Principal, host Jordan Knoetgen principal of Brilliant Microschools, sits down with Iris, the mother of a spirited middle school student named Dante. Join us as Iris opens up about her son’s experience navigating ADHD and the journey from facing challenges in traditional education to finding a supportive learning environment. Hear how Dante's educational path has been redefined, leading to improved focus, a renewed passion for learning, and the development of essential life skills.

Podcast

The Evolution of Homeschooling: Insights from My Homeschool Expert

Podcast

No Default Path: OutSchool’s Approach to Choice-Rich Learning Pathways, with Amir Nathoo

In this episode, Amir Nathoo, CEO of OutSchool, joins Andreas to discuss the evolution of OutSchool as a pioneering educational platform that blends curiosity-driven discovery with structured learning pathways. They explore how OutSchool’s model provides students and families with flexible, personalized learning options that transcend the traditional one-size-fits-all approach. Nathoo shares insights on the global school concept, emphasizing a future where AI-powered recommendations complement human choice, making education a dynamic, learner-centric ecosystem. They also dig into addressing parent anxiety around educational choices, empowering students with autonomy, and the potential impact of education savings accounts, international expansion, and humanitarian efforts on OutSchool’s mission.

Podcast

You Can't Design Student-Led Without The Students, with Chad Carlson from One Stone School

In this episode of the School Builders Podcast, host Andreas Marinopoulos speaks with Chad Carlson, CEO of Idea 51 and a leader in innovative education. They discuss the unique student-led learning model at One Stone, the challenges and strategies of school transformation, and the importance of real-world connections in education. The conversation also explores assessment models, the significance of trust in learning environments, and the collaborative efforts to support other schools in their educational journeys.

Podcast

Surf Skate Science: Hands-On Learning Through Action Sports, with Toni and Uli Frallicciardi

In this episode of the School Builders Podcast, Andreas speaks with Uli and Toni Frallicciardi, the founders of Surfskate Science, a unique educational program that blends action sports with STEAM principles. They share their journey from running a skate park to creating a community-focused learning experience that emphasizes hands-on learning, resilience, and interdisciplinary education. The conversation explores the impact of their program on students, the structure of their curriculum, and their aspirations for scaling their model while maintaining its core values.

Podcast

How Microschools Unbundle Traditional Schooling, with Don Soifer

Don Soifer, CEO of the National Microschooling Center, discusses the growth and potential of microschools in education. He highlights the diverse models and innovative approaches within the microschooling sector, including full-time, part-time, hybrid, and technology-based models. Don emphasizes the importance of personalization and flexibility in education, allowing for individualized learning experiences and meeting the specific needs of learners.

Podcast

Decentralizing Education: The Forces Behind the Micro-School Boom, with Kerry McDonald

In this episode, host Andreas welcomes Kerry McDonald, the host of The Liberated Podcast and author of 'Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom. We explore the rapid rise of micro-schools and the factors driving the decentralization of education with guest Kerry McDonald.

Podcast

Redefining Education: A Journey Through Microschooling

In this episode of Tiny Talks with a Microschool Principal, host Jordan Knoetgen, principal of Brilliant Microschools, interviews Ashley, mother of a successful middle school student named Jordan. The discussion explores Jordan's challenging experiences in traditional public schooling and the life-changing impact of Brilliant Microschools. Ashley shares heartfelt insights into her son's academic and social transformation, highlighting his newfound passion for learning, improved social skills, and aspirations to become a pilot.

Podcast

Crafting the Next Generation of Microschools with Ryan Delk

This episode of The Homebrew School Builder's Club features a deep dive into the inception and operation of Primer, an innovative platform aimed at transforming the K-12 education system by empowering top teachers to launch their own micro schools. Ryan, the guest, shares his personal journey from experiencing alternative education through a homeschool co-op founded by his mother to launching tech companies and eventually starting Primer. He highlights the existential crisis in the current education system and proposes micro schools as a viable solution.

Podcast

Embracing New Pedagogical Models with Prisma's Emily Veno

This episode explores curriculum design for progressive education with Emily Veno, Head of Learning Innovation at Prisma School. We delve into the unique curriculum design of Prisma School, focusing on project-based learning, interdisciplinary themes, and the development of essential life skills.Emily emphasizes the advantages online schools offer compared to traditional settings, highlighting the increased flexibility and the freedom to break from outdated constraints. The conversation wraps up with a thought-provoking discussion about the potential of online environments to revolutionize education as we know it.

Podcast

Socratic Sparks: How Engaging Dialogues Fuel Student Motivation

This episode delves into the transformative power of Socratic dialogue in education and its significant impact on student motivation. The speaker contrasts the conventional, lecture-based teaching approach with the dynamic and interactive nature of Socratic questioning. By fostering an environment where students actively engage in discussions, debate real-world issues, and explore diverse perspectives, this method brings learning to life.

Podcast

Let's help the trailblazers defy the game of school, with Ana Lorena Fabrega

In this episode of the Homebrew School Builders Club, we're thrilled to host Ana Lorena Fabrega, a trailblazer in the realm of innovative education and Chief Evangelist at Synthesis. Fondly known as Mrs. Fab, Ana shares her unique perspectives on transforming traditional educational practices.

Podcast

Compass Prep's Evolution into a Diverse Educational Network, with Laura George and Denise Rudolph

In this episode, we explore the journey and philosophy of Compass Prep, an innovative non-traditional education center in Cherokee County. Founded by Laura George and now managed by Denise Rudolph, Compass Prep has been revolutionizing education since 2005.

Podcast

A school with 70 Choices Every Six Weeks, Every Student a Designer, with Garrett Smiley

Journey with us into the innovative world of Sora Schools. Here, every six weeks heralds a new beginning as students sift through 70 diverse subjects, deciding whether they'll dive into artificial intelligence friendships, architect their own civilizations, or plunge into the mysteries of the Roman Empire's decline. But at Sora, the power of choice doesn't end there.

Podcast

A Blueprint to Kindle Fires in Young Learners, with Kelly Smith

Join Andreas as he chats with Kelly Smith, who started Prenda Schools, about what makes small schools called microschools so special. Kelly shares his experience visiting a microschool and being inspired by a calm and firm guide (his wife) who had a unique way of connecting with her student, Noah. They dive into why this close connection between guides and students is the secret sauce of successful microschools.