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 Episodes180. 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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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 Episodes180. 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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Show Summary:
In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha sits down with Nichole Austion — children’s book author and Vice President of Public Affairs at the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI). Nichole shares the story behind her book Miles and the Math Monsters, inspired by her son’s journey to overcome struggles with math, where the character discovers math to be a helpful companion intertwined in their everyday environment. Listen in as she shares an excerpt of her book and practical advice on fostering a positive math identity in children.
About Nichole Austion, VP of Public Affairs at NMSI: Nichole Austion is the Vice President of Public Affairs at the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI), where she leads marketing and government relations. With a focus on STEM advancement, Nichole orchestrates strategic initiatives, bridging marketing and government relations to amplify NMSI’s impact nationwide. Her expertise stems from her work with global technology firms like Sabre Holdings and Teradata, where she drove multimillion-dollar revenue through innovative marketing strategies. She is the author of “Miles and the Math Monsters,” a children’s book that transforms math into a friendly presence, encouraging children to see it as a helpful companion intertwined with their everyday environment. She holds an engineering degree from Howard University and an MBA from The University of Texas at Austin.
About National Math and Science Initiative: The National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving STEM education in the U.S. It focuses on expanding access to high-quality math and science programs, particularly for students who face barriers to educational opportunities. Since its founding in 2007, NMSI has worked with schools, teachers, and policymakers to enhance STEM learning and prepare students for careers in STEM fields.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
166. Why Math Matters ft. CEO of NMSI
179. Seeing Students as Mathematicians ft. Cherelle McKnight of Illustrative Mathematics
Is Teaching Engineering Bad? - Part 1 and Part 2
117. Why Does Belonging Matter in STEM Education?
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM
How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward
The Importance of Failure
Vivify STEM Lessons
FREE! - Add Math Practice to any Design Challenge using these Editable Budget Sheets
Catapult Challenge
Stomp Rocket Challenge
FREE! - Space for You in STEM Inspirational Posters
Break Down Stereotypes! Who is a STEM Professional? Game
FREE! - Women in STEM Classroom Posters
Other STEM Resources
Nichole Austion | LinkedIn
National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI)
Miles and the Math Monsters book
NMSI Professional Development Services
Webinar | Breaking Boundaries: Celebrating Black Excellence in STEM (ft. Nichole Austion, Joan Higginbotham, and Dr. Ciara Sivels)
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Show Summary:
In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha chats with Cherelle McKnight on all things math, including building a positive math identity, the systematic barriers in math education, and the challenges teachers face in the math classroom. Cherelle is a former mathematics teacher who now works as the director of PK–5 content development at Illustrative Mathematics, a non-profit organization that offers free K-12 math curriculum with a mission to create a world where all learners know, use, and enjoy mathematics.
About Cherelle McKnight, Director of PK-5 Content Development at Illustrative Mathematics: Cherelle McKnight received a BA in audio production and a minor in human development from Howard University. Cherelle went on to complete her MA, specializing in PK–5, at Mercer University.
Cherelle has served as a mathematics teacher, coach, curriculum and instruction specialist, and consultant. She is passionate about supporting students, teachers, and parents and helping them develop positive mathematical identities. Cherelle is currently the director of PK–5 content development at Illustrative Mathematics.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Cherelle is a Formula 1 driver. (Cherelle loves to play Mario Kart.) She and her wife are the proud pawrents of a Frenchie.
About Illustrative Mathematics: Illustrative Mathematics (IM) has created research-backed, standards-aligned K–12 mathematics curricula since its founding in 2011. Thoughtfully designed and expert-authored, IM’s comprehensive suite of math curricula is designed to encourage inclusive, engaging mathematical discussions supported by tasks, lesson plans, professional learning, and community.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
Is Teaching Engineering Bad? - Part 1 and Part 2
166. Why Math Matters ft. CEO of NMSI
73. Does STEM Track?
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education
Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM
Claire: I Didn't Always Want to be an Engineer
Vivify STEM Lessons
FREE! - Using Geometry to Build a Safe Shelter!
Paper Football Math Activity
FREE! - Add Math Practice to any Design Challenge using these Editable Budget Sheets
Other STEM Resources
Illustrative Mathematics
Inviting Students to the Math Party: Creating an Inclusive and Engaging Math Community blog by Cherelle McKnight
Quick Tips
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Show Summary:
Claire is in survival mode as she juggles multiple big STEM projects, including a weather balloon launch to the stratosphere! Claire and Natasha also chat about something we’ve both noticed in our classrooms: how students don’t know how to think through a problem. Instead of pausing to figure things out, they immediately ask for help. So in this episode, we’re talking about ways to encourage our students to slow down, think critically, and build those problem-solving muscles.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
122. How to Motivate Students
119. Think Like A Scientist (mystery box)
105. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Top 10 STEM Activities for Spring
Weather Balloon
7 Ideas for Teaching Social Studies with STEM
Astronaut Training and the 4 C's of STEM
Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education
Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM
Vivify STEM Lessons
Plant Device (Botany STEM Challenge)
Weather Balloon Project Guide
STEM Explorers: Ancient Egypt Chariot Challenge or Chile Solar Car Challenge
Mission to Moon or Mission to Mars
Straw Rocket STEM Challenge - K-3 or 4-10
Think Like a Scientist: Nature of Science 5E Inquiry Unit
Astronaut Training: 4 Cs of STEM
Other STEM Resources
TikTok | Weather Balloon and STEM Explorers (ft. Chariot Challenge)
Instagram | STEM Explorers (ft. Chariot Challenge) and Weather Balloon
YouTube | Weather Balloon
Rosie Revere, Engineer book
More Vivify Recommended STEM Books
Rube Goldberg Contests
Teacher Talk: STEM Career Chats (YouTube playlist)
Email us your questions!
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Show Summary:
Natasha chats with Dr. Leah Hanes, CEO of the Two Bit Circus Foundation, a nonprofit transforming STEAM education through hands-on, student-driven learning. Dr. Hanes highlights the power of makerspaces and how her organization upcycles industrial materials into creative classroom tools. She also advocates for embracing AI in education. While some fear student use of AI, she encourages AI as a tool to level the playing field, providing personalized support for students and helping teachers enhance learning for all.
About Dr. Leah Hanes, CEO of Two Bit Circus Foundation: Dr. Leah Hanes blends creativity, leadership, and a passion for education in her work at Two Bit Circus Foundation. From award-winning TV production in Toronto to talent representation in Hollywood, she has built a career driven by storytelling and innovation.
Her early life on a Canadian farm shaped her commitment to sustainability, while her studies in Early Childhood Education fueled her dedication to hands-on learning. With a Master’s in Organizational Management and a PhD in Leadership and Change from Antioch University, she continues to champion student-driven, experiential education that prepares learners for the future.
About Two Bit Circus Foundation: Two Bit Circus Foundation is a Los Angeles based 501(c)3 nonprofit that creates STEAM learning experiences for kids that inspire innovation and entrepreneurship by building games, telling stories with technology, and challenging kids to make what they imagine using sustainable materials and STEAM.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
115. How to Design a Makerspace
119. Think Like a Scientist
148. AI Tips for Teachers ft. Lauren Kelly
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Qweebi: Transforming STEM Education with a Virtual Makerspace
Top 3 AI Tools for Educators
Best Free AI Tools for Educators
How to Host a Debate in Your Science Classroom
How to Launch Model Rockets & Amaze Your Students!
10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities (Find Your Student Sparks)
Vivify STEM Lessons
Think Like a Scientist: Nature of Science 5E Inquiry Unit
Manipulating Genetics: GMO STEM Unit + Classroom Debate (5E Model)
Straw Rocket STEM Challenge - K-3 or 4-10
Other STEM Resources
Two Bit Circus Foundation
Dr. Leah Hanes | LinkedIn
How MIT’s fab labs scaled around the world
Subscribe to the Vivify STEM Newsletter
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Show Summary:
In this episode of the STEM Space, Claire and Natasha discuss how to build an entrepreneurial mindset in the classroom, why free isn’t always a good thing (especially when it comes to materials in a STEM challenge!), and why constraints spark creativity.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
125. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM
90. We Launched a Weather Balloon
154. How to Make Space for STEM
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Top 10 STEM Activities for Spring
Not All STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM
How to Launch a Weather Balloon: Ultimate STEM Challenge
10 Tips for Managing a STEM Classroom
Vivify STEM Lessons
FREE - STEM Challenge Budget Sheets
Botany STEM Challenge
FREE - Brick by Brick: Introduction to Criteria & Constraints
Candy Grabber STEM Challenge
Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Project Guide
Other STEM Resources
Vivify Instagram | Mary Anderson (reel)
National Inventors Hall of Fame© | Teaching Kids About Patents
Become a member of The STEM Space today to access our entire lesson library!
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Show Summary:
In this episode of The STEM Space, we bring you a special live-recorded conversation with Jason McKenna from VEX Robotics! Broadcasting straight from the VEX Classroom, Jason showcases an incredible lineup of robotic solutions designed to transform learning environments. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Jason shares his personal journey—including a pivotal moment when he almost walked away from education due to burnout. But everything changed when he saw firsthand how a robotics lesson could transform his classroom. Join us as we explore why robotics and STEM education are for every student, and how they can empower both learners and educators to embrace creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on discovery.
About Jason McKenna, VP of Global Education Strategy for VEX Robotics: Jason McKenna is an educator, author, and advocate for innovative and equitable learning practices. As Vice President of Global Educational Strategy at VEX Robotics, Jason helms the strategic direction of educational platforms within the VEX Continuum. With a focus on integrating STEM, technology, and creative thinking into education, Jason is passionate about empowering teachers and preparing students for the demands of a rapidly changing world.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
150. Screw the Standards! Or Should We? ft. Dr. Pedersen
131. How to Scaffold Engineering Design in K-12
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Astronaut Training and the 4 C's of STEM
15 Ways to Teach Robotics Virtually
Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?
Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning
Vivify STEM Lessons
FREE - Robotics Programming Maze Challenge
Astronaut Training: 4 Cs of STEM (Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, and Critical Thinking)
Intro to Coding STEM Activity
Technology Choice Boards
Other STEM Resources
VEX Robotics
LinkedIn Profiles: Jason McKenna | VEX Robotics
X Profiles: Jason McKenna (@MckennaJ72) | VEX Robotics (@VEXRobotics)
Book: What STEM Can Do for Your Classroom: Improving Student Problem Solving, Collaboration, and Engagement by Jason McKenna
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Show Summary:
As a mom to two daughters, Natasha is always on the lookout for STEM-inspired clothing that’s both stylish and empowering. If you can relate or are interested in the story of two passionate entrepreneurs, then this episode is for you! Join Claire and Natasha as they sit down with Margarita (Maty) and Ana—the creative co-founders behind Prisma Kiddos. Frustrated by the lack of options in kids’ fashion, these passionate moms took matters into their own hands, launching a brand that blends STEM inspiration, gender empowerment, and sustainability into every unique outfit. In this conversation, we explore their journey as entrepreneurs, the challenges they’ve faced, and the passion that drives their mission. (Plus, Remi makes a special appearance to show off one of her favorite Prisma Kiddos looks!)
About Prisma Kiddos:
Prisma Kiddos is driven by the vision of two incredible moms, Ana and Maty, who saw a need to break free from traditional gender norms and promote equality through fashion. Their mission is to inspire the next generation of kids to embrace their curiosity, creativity, and passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
With designs that go beyond stereotypes, Prisma Kiddos offers non-traditional clothing options that empower girls and introduce boys to sensitive and thoughtful themes. Their eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices reflect their commitment to sustainability, making sure that their products are not only stylish but also kind to the planet.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
90. We Launched a Weather Balloon
153. Don't Tell Your Kid to be an Engineer
127. Why You Should Teach About STEM Careers
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
How to Launch a Weather Balloon: Ultimate STEM Challenge
Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM
Vivify STEM Lessons
Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide
Break Down Stereotypes! Who is a STEM Professional? game & activities
STEM Classroom Posters - Inspirational or Careers!
Building Bricks STEM: STEM Careers - K-5 Challenge Mats or 3-5 Building Challenges
STEM Careers BINGO - K-5 or 5-12
Other STEM Resources
Prisma Kiddos
Rube Goldberg Competitions
Boston Children’s Museum
The Whiteside Museum of Natural History
International Dimetrodon Day - April 5
Natasha & Family go to Boston Children’s Museum (ft. Prisma Kiddos apparel)
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Share your Quick Tips with us!
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Show Summary:
Natasha chats with Debra Hettleman, the CEO of Building STEPS, which stands for Science, Technology And Education Partnerships. This nonprofit is dedicated to fostering college and career success through a multi-year program in Baltimore’s most underserved public high schools. From college prep workshops to summer internships at local STEM companies, Building STEPS helps students navigate the path to college success including applying, attending, and graduating. Debra also shares her journey in growing the organization, insights on scaling it to other cities, and surprising lessons learned from expanding the program to younger grades.
About Debra Hettleman, CEO of Building STEPS: Debra launched Building STEPS in 1999 with the purpose of creating a college pathway for underrepresented students to become STEM professionals. Today, she oversees all aspects of this Baltimore nonprofit from developing and maintaining corporate and institutional partners to advising the Board on creating and implementing growth strategies. She is a graduate of the Greater Baltimore Committee’s The Leadership and has been honored by the Baltimore Business Journal as Maryland’s Top 100 Women. She earned her Project Management Professional certification in 2020. Outside of work, Debra can be found hiking the trails of Maryland’s parks.
Building STEPS (Science, Technology and Education Partnerships, Inc.) is a nonprofit that equips Baltimore's brightest students with the tools to propel them to college and career success. The multi-year program, currently available in fifteen of Baltimore's more challenged public high schools, includes seminars, a paid summer internship, college counseling and alumni services.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
127. Why You Should Teach About STEM Careers
122. How to Motivate Students
82. How to Rock it with Rockets
73. Does STEM Track?
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities
Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM
How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward
How to Launch Model Rockets & Amaze Your Students!
Vivify STEM Lessons
Break Down Stereotypes! Who is a STEM Professional? game & activities
STEM Careers BINGO - K-5 or 5-12
STEM Careers or Inspirational STEM Classroom Posters
STEM Tech Choice Boards - Career, Field Trip, and Types of Tech
FREE - Interview Questions to Ask STEM Professionals
Other STEM Resources
Building STEPS - Baltimore
Towson University
Communities in Schools (CIS)
Step Into STEM - VelocityTX
University of Maryland, College Park
Texas A&M University Young Scholars PATHS-UP Program
US Naval Academy
Email us your questions and more!
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Show Summary:
Do you use a 3D printer in your classroom? In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire and Natasha dive into the reality of owning and using 3D printers in the classroom. These machines definitely bring the ‘wow’ factor, but are they really worth the hype? From bridges to weather balloons, we share our experiences incorporating 3D printing into our design challenges. But these projects also came with a lot of headaches including an overwhelming time commitment and ultimately unclear learning outcomes. Join us as we discuss why it might be time to hit pause on the 3D printer craze and rethink their role in your curriculum.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
115. How to Design a Makerspace
Prototyping:
- 113. From Miniatures to Mariners: The Power of Prototyping
- 120. Prioritizing Prototypes & Assessing STEM
144. Another Year of Smashing STEM (bridging classroom objects)
90. We Launched a Weather Balloon
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
10 Must Have STEM Tools
Launching Weather Balloons
Vivify STEM Lessons
Australia Safety Capsule STEM Challenge
Bridge Engineering STEM Challenge
Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide
Semester STEM Units (includes Space Colony!): choose from Moon or Mars themes!
Other STEM Resources
CAD Software:
- SOLIDWORKS
- Tinkercad
- CATIA
- Revit (for students)
Rube Goldberg contests
Subscribe to the Vivify STEM Newsletter!
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Show Summary:
Natasha chats with Carlos Romero, a STEM professional who is passionate about making STEM more inclusive and accessible for all students. With a background in chemical engineering and a career in product development and project management, Carlos shares his experiences in the STEM industry to highlight how educators can prepare students for future careers. He also shares ideas for the STEM classroom including ways to integrate entrepreneurship, market research, and patents into an engineering lesson.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
121. The Importance of Clear Communication in Science
98. Who is an Engineer?
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward
Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM
Vivify STEM Lessons
Lessons About Communication:
- Astronaut Training: 4 Cs of STEM
- Intro to Coding STEM Activity
- Manipulating Genetics: GMO STEM Unit + Classroom Debate (5E Model)
STEM Creativity Tools: 5 Activities to Boost Brainstorming Power
STEM Careers:
- Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity (Break down stereotypes!)
- STEM Career Classroom Posters
- STEM Careers BINGO: K-5, 5-12, or Women in STEM
- Interview Questions to ask STEM Professionals
- FREE Women in STEM Classroom Posters
Other STEM Resources
LinkedIn | Carlos Romero
74Million.org | Encouraging Latino Students to Pursue STEM Careers
National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI)
National Inventors Hall of Fame | Teaching Kids About Patents
Gain access to Vivify’s expanding lesson library when you become a member of The STEM Space!
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Show Summary:
Welcome back to the second part of Natasha and Claire’s conversation with the co-founders of Qweebi! In this episode, they shift gears to explore the story behind Qweebi’s creation by diving into the partnership of Aman and Vivek. They’ll uncover how these two visionaries met, what brought them together, and what it’s like to collaborate as co-founders on a mission to transform STEM education. And stay tuned to the end when Aman and Vivek turn the tables to ask Claire and Natasha about their journey as co-founders of Vivify STEM.
Qweebi is the first-ever online makerspace that lets teachers run STEM projects across engineering, electronics, and robotics without needing any supplies. All projects are aligned to NGSS standards and designed to hit learning outcomes for grades 3-8. Want to learn more about Qweebi?Try out the Roller Coaster project for FREE!
LINKS FROM THE SHOW
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
169. A Virtual STEM Makerspace ft. Qweebi (Part 1)
4. Why You Should Teach Space
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
I Didn’t Always Want to be an Engineer
Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?
Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education
How to Start an After School STEM Club
Vivify STEM Lessons
Vivify Space Curriculum:
- Mission to Moon: K-5, 6-8, or try our 6-8 Semester-Long STEM Unit
- Mission to Mars: K-5, 6-8, or Mars also has a 6-8 Semester-Long STEM Unit
- Orbital Mission STEM Curriculum Unit (5-8)
Other STEM Resources
Qweebi
Qweebi - Try the Roller Coaster project for FREE!
Aman’s Favorite Book: The Beginning of Infinity
Vivify Research & Publications
Meet the Vivify Team
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Show Summary:
Are you a STEM teacher feeling overwhelmed by limited time, storage, and funding? Then this episode of The STEM Space is for you! Claire and Natasha sit down with the visionary co-founders of Qweebi, a tech company on a mission to revolutionize STEM education. Qweebi is a virtual makerspace where students design, build, and test everything from rovers to rollercoasters in an online environment that mimics real-world physics. This hands-on, engaging experience eliminates the need for physical supplies while fostering creativity and authentic engineering learning. As the first of a two-part series, this episode explores the inspiration behind Qweebi, its innovative features, and how it aligns with STEM learning goals.
Want to learn more about Qweebi? Try out the Roller Coaster project for FREE!
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
164. STEM Overload: A STEM Space Q&A
115. How to Design a Makerspace
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education
Engineering in the Science Classroom
Must Haves for a STEM Lab
Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?
How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward
Vivify STEM Lessons
Astro-Rover Space Science & Engineering Design Unit
Roller Coaster STEM Activity - K-5 or 5-8
Other STEM Resources
Qweebi
Qweebi - Try the Roller Coaster project for FREE!
The Beginning of Infinity
Rube Goldberg Contests (challenges)
Vivify STEM Quick Tips
THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES
THE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUP
VIVIFY INSTAGRAM
VIVIFY FACEBOOK
VIVIFY TWITTER
VIVIFY TIKTOK
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Show Summary:
In this episode of The STEM Space, Claire is on a mission to rescue her Mission to Mars plant (yes, it's a real plant!), while Natasha rants about the relentless fire alarms in the dorm and the frigid New England winter. Along the way, we find connections to STEM everywhere - from a freaky football pass that seems to defy physics to Claire’s plant that drips blood! We also chat about our resolutions for the New Year, sharing strategies for building positive routines and behaviors for our kids and classrooms as the new semester kicks off.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
154. How to Make Space for STEM
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
10 Tips for Managing a STEM Classroom
5 Tips for Teaching STEM With Robots
How to Launch a Weather Balloon: Ultimate STEM Challenge
Vivify STEM Lessons (*no plants included, sadly)
Plants in Space*
Mission to Mars STEM Curriculum*
Sphero Robotic Programming Maze Challenge - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library!
Weather Balloon Launch: STEM Engineering Project Guide
Other STEM Resources
Mission to Mars plant
America's Public Lands Explained
Hot Springs - National Park Service
BYU - Idaho | The Big Bang Theory - Sheldon Trains Penny (2:45)
Sphero Global Challenge | STEM & Robotics Competitions
SEEC: Space Exploration Educators Conference
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Show Summary:
Natasha chats with a former STEM educator turned founder and CEO of WhyMaker, Liz Gallo. Liz is on a mission to design the future of education, where teachers act as learning engineers, equipping their students to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Listen in as they chat about her decade-long experience as a technology and engineering educator and her transition to being the leader of WhyMaker, which has made a tangible impact on over 15,000 educators worldwide, inspiring a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers. She also shares her vision for STEM education, not just as an elective, but as a transformative approach to school. Part of this vision is bringing the real-world into the classroom, such as her work in partnering with companies in the sustainability sector to engage students with cutting-edge technologies, explore career pathways in clean energy, and contribute to solutions for global sustainability challenges. They also discuss her book, Educators Guide to Design Thinking, a practical workbook to implement project-based design experiences with your students.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)
122. How to Motivate Students
166. Why Math Matters ft. CEO of NMSI
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Not All STEM is Equal: The 3 Stages of STEM
Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM
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Astronaut Training: 4 Cs of STEM (Back to School STEM Activities)
Growth Mindset Back to School Rocket About Me Activity
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Brick by Brick: Intro to Criteria and Constraints - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library!
Editable Budget Sheets - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library!
Other STEM Resources
WhyMaker | Website, Facebook, Instagram, or X
LEGO Architecture Empire State Building
New York State Department of Education CTE requirements
Book | Educators Guide to Design Thinking
Arduino
Email us your questions and more!
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Show Summary:
This episode of The STEM Space is all about math! Math might be the M in STEM, but it doesn’t always get the attention it deserves in K-12 STEM education efforts. Yet, its role is critical—not just for academic success, but for preparing students to solve real-world problems.
To help us understand why math matters and how it can drive opportunity for students, Natasha speaks with Jeremy Anderson, CEO of the National Math + Science Initiative. Jeremy leads a dedicated team working to close opportunity gaps and expand college access through rigorous STEM programs. With over 25 years of experience in education policy, Jeremy brings deep insights into how math education can empower students and transform lives.
In their conversation, they’ll discuss NMSI’s mission, the importance of math education, and how connecting it to real-world challenges can boost student interest and engagement.
About Jeremy:
Before joining NMSI in August 2023, Jeremy served as the president of the Education Commission of the States (ECS), where he expanded the organization's policy presence and worked with state and federal leaders on various policy initiatives. Jeremy also has a background in strategic communications, political campaigns, public affairs, and government relations, which enables him to effectively advocate for NMSI's proven STEM solutions and partnerships. He is passionate about advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in education, and is proud to work alongside NMSI's talented and diverse staff and partners.
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
91. Defining STEM ft. Molly Seward (K-4 STEM Teacher)
127. Why You Should Teach About STEM Careers
117. Why Does Belonging Matter in STEM Education?
161. Making Tech Education Accessible ft. imagi Co-Founders
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Top 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEM
7 Activities Featuring Women in STEM History
Not All STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education
Incorporating Engineering Practices into Texas Science Classrooms
10 Easy STEM Career Classroom Activities
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Think Like a Scientist: Nature of Science 5E Inquiry Unit
STEM Catapult Math & Engineering Activity
Straw Rocket STEM Challenge
Women in STEM History Engineering Challenges
Who is an Engineer or Scientist? STEM Career Game & Activity
STEM Careers BINGO Game: K-5 or 5-12
Other STEM Resources
LinkedIn | Jeremy Anderson
National Math + Science Initiative
- Get Involved
CNBC | The 10 most valuable college degrees—they're all in STEM
Texas Regional Pathways Network
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Show Summary:
Claire and Natasha catch up after a Thanksgiving holiday break filled with family, fun, and a little bit of chaos! They also share creative ways to STEMify your Elf on the Shelf before they pick back up on the last episode’s discussion of what they found to be their most valuable experiences to prepare for engineering. (Spoiler Alert: it wasn’t design challenges!)
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
164. STEM Overload: A STEM Space Q&A
129. A Good & Bad Example of Phenomenon-Based Teaching
Is Teaching Engineering Bad?
- Episode 137 (Part 1)
- Episode 139 (Part 2)
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Get Your Elf Off That Shelf with STEM
How to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing Forward
Vivify STEM Lessons
Elf STEM
- Elf Sledding Adventure
- Elf Zip Line
- Elf Pendulum Adventure
Intro to Science & Engineering: STEM Critical Thinking Challenges
Other STEM Resources
Vivify Research & Publications
YouTube: SHARING HER PASSION | Tatiana Erukhimova Ph.D. (Texas A&M Physics Professor - videos went viral for physics phenomenon demonstrations)
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Show Summary:
Claire and Natasha tackle your questions from The STEM Space Facebook group! Listen as they dive into everything—from seasoned teachers venting about how STEM feels watered down to newer teachers feeling totally overwhelmed or unsure about engineering— and chat through your comments, share their thoughts, and hopefully give you some tips and encouragement along the way!
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
105. Explaining the 3 Stages of STEM
Is Teaching Engineering Bad? - Part 1 and Part 2
145. How to Create an Engineering Lesson
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Not All STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education
Rate Your STEM Lesson: What Stage is Your STEM Challenge?
Understanding a Framework for P-12 Engineering Learning
7 Ideas for Teaching Social Studies with STEM
Vivify STEM Lessons
Astronaut Training: 4 Cs of STEM (Critical Thinking, Collaboration, Communication, Creativity)
Drag Device
Scope & Sequence - FREE - K-5 or 6-8
Find Your Student Sparks - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library!
Heavy Lift Rocket Challenge
Other STEM Resources
The STEM Space Facebook group
U.S. Department of Education | Gifted education and STEM: A Thematic Review (PDF)
Vivify STEM Recommendations
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The STEM Space Explorer Library - FREE
Vivify STEM Research & Publications
THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTES
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Show Summary:
From Sphero chariot races to a straw rocket challenge between engineers and educators, Claire and Natasha reflect on the K-12 Educator Institute, a workshop they facilitated as part of the Great Minds In STEM conference. They share ideas and big takeaways for facilitating STEM PD for teachers. Claire also tortures Natasha with questions from her students' “Brain Building Box!”
Links from the Show:
Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes
125. Constraints in a STEM Classroom
119. Think Like A Scientist
Vivify STEM Blog Posts
Not all STEM is Equal: 3 Stages of STEM Education
Pipe Cleaner STEM Challenge
Basics of Sphero Robotics + 3 Awesome Sphero STEM Activities (includes Sphero Chariots)
STEM Family Night Planning Guide
Vivify STEM Lessons
STEM Tower Challenges
STEM Space Lander Challenge - K-5 or 6-8
Lunar Crater STEM Challenge
Bundle: STEM Family Night Planning Guide, STEM Activity Instructions, Posters
Mission to Moon Semester STEM Unit + Moon Colony Project! (includes Roller Coaster Challenge and Moon Planning game)
Mission to Mars Semester STEM Unit + Mars Colony Project! (includes Lander Challenge and Mars Planning game)
Straw Rocket STEM Challenge - K-2 or 3-10
Roller Coaster STEM Challenge - K-5 or 5-8
Brick by Brick: Introduction to Criteria and Constraints - FREE in The STEM Space Explorer Library!
Other STEM Resources
Great Minds In STEM
Northrop Grumman
NASA Space Exploration Educators Conference (SEEC)
Quick Tips
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