Best Multicultural Storytelling Podcasts (2025)

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From Texas to Jiangyin: A Naval Engineer’s Journey in China w/ Julia Meyn 1:20:31

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1d ago1:20:31

1:20:31

What does it mean to build something massive, precise, and powerful—while rebuilding your own sense of belonging? In this episode of Liminal Space, host Susan Su and co-host Matt Lu talk with Julia Meyn, a naval engineer from Texas now working in Jiangyin, China. Julia shares her journey into the world of shipbuilding, from feeling like an outsider…

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Building Responsible AI With Innovation, Ethics and Inclusion with Norman Valdez 47:09

5h ago47:09

47:09

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping society, but with its transformative power comes pressing ethical, cultural, and social questions. The conversation around AI often centers on new capabilities, but equally important are the implications for equity, transparency, and human values. A key concern is the concentration of AI development…

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The Everything Trail: From Redwood Resilience to the Wilds of South Africa with Author Meg Fleming 34:21

3h ago34:21

34:21

Send us a text Imagine a world where walking out the door inspires adventure and a love of nature, from tiny bugs on the sidewalk to giant redwoods standing sentinel. Could it be that these adventures can inspire systemic change? On Episode 152 of the Adventures in Learning podcast, author Meg Fleming chats with Dr. Diane about the power of sparkin…

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Troubling Tonsils: Creepy Fun for Older Readers with the Award-Winning Duo Peter Brown and Aaron Reynolds 32:28

6d ago32:28

32:28

Send us a text Step into a world where humor and horror dance together in perfect harmony. Join the award-winning author/illustrator duo of Aaron Reynolds and Peter Brown as we dive into the eerie yet delightful tale behind their new book for older readers -- Troubling Tonsils. Maturing fans of the Creepy Carrots, Creepy Pair of Underwear, and Cree…

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Rudy Rupak: Composer, Storyteller, and Filmmaker 4:06

7d ago4:06

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In this episode, we dive into the world of Rudy Rupak, a visionary composer, storyteller, and filmmaker who has mastered the art of weaving emotion into every medium he touches. From powerful soundscapes to compelling narratives on screen, Rudy shares how music and storytelling can transcend borders and connect us all.…

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Trust, Tech, and the New Financial Playbook: Navigating the Generational Divide with Aijaz Hussain Shaik 39:16

12d ago39:16

39:16

Money habits aren’t formed in a vacuum. They’re shaped by the crises we live through, the culture we’re raised in, andthe tools we trust to manage our future. Today’s financial landscape is being redefined by generational shifts, cultural influences, and emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence, each impacting how people save, spend, and…

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Finding Your Voice in a Changing World with Speaker, Author, and Director Tricia Brouk 28:20

13d ago28:20

28:20

Send us a text Imagine a world where every voice is heard, where empathy leads to genuine dialogue, and where personal transformation fuels leadership growth. How can we harness the power of our voice to inspire change and empowerment in ourselves and others? Join us in this compelling episode as we sit down with Tricia Brouk, an award-winning dire…

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Unleashing Creativity and the Magic of Collaboration with author/illustrator Molly Idle 41:53

20d ago41:53

41:53

Send us a text Imagine a world where art can reshape education and unlock the potential within each of us. That world is possible if we collaborate -- and this week's guest, Caldecott Honor-winning author-illustrator Molly Idle, has some inspiring ideas to get us started. In this episode, Molly shares her artistic journey, from her early inspiratio…

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How Rudy Rupak Bridges Film, Music, and Multicultural Influence 4:08

20d ago4:08

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In this episode, we uncover the artistry of Rudy Rupak, a creative force who brings together the worlds of film, music, and multicultural influence. Through his passion for storytelling, Rudy creates projects that combine powerful visuals with multilingual soundscapes, offering a rich and inclusive experience for audiences. We talk about his vision…

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How Inclusive Workplaces Turn Military Experience into Business Advantage with Ari Friedman 49:08

26d ago49:08

49:08

Veterans are undoubtedly our nation’s heroes. They bring with them a set of skills honed through years of service, skills that, if clearly communicated, can achieve the same success in business that they achieved on missions. The key to transferring these skills to civilian roles is breakingdown what was done in a military context into terms that s…

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Creating Cultural Connections Through Storytelling Adventures with Author Leah Henderson 30:32

27d ago30:32

30:32

Send us a text Stories spread wings. How do stories serve as windows into diverse cultures and histories while inspiring us to embrace our own identities? Author, educator, and global adventurer Leah Henderson helps us explore the transformative power of rich storytelling. This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and librarians working…

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Innovative Strategies for Engaging Young Learners Through Empathy and Play with Rebecca Freedman 29:24

1M ago29:24

29:24

Send us a text How can the simple act of play revolutionize early childhood education and reignite a passion for teaching? Join us on a transformative journey as Rebecca List Freedman, co-founder of FirstDay Learning, reveals the incredible potential of play in early childhood education. Discover how integrating play into classrooms not only addres…

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Rudy Rupak: The Global Voice Behind Multilingual Melodies 3:41

1M ago3:41

3:41

In this episode, we dive into the world of Rudy Rupak, a global music innovator whose multilingual melodies transcend borders. As the creative force behind emotionally rich compositions in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Farsi, Rudy shares how his diverse influences and cinematic style come together to tell powerful stories through sound. From cultura…

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Why Internal Messaging Fails and How Inclusive Communication Fixes It with Jenna Marston 39:34

1M ago39:34

39:34

As the workforce becomes increasingly diverse—not just in terms of race and ethnicity, but also in education, language, and lived experiences—brands must rethink how they communicate internally. It's not enough to craft a compellingmessage if it isn’t understood, or worse, if no one cares. For communication to be effective, it must be accessible, r…

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Reframing Failure for Optimal Performance with Adolfo Gómez Sánchez 40:40

1M ago40:40

40:40

Send us a text Are you ready to break through your limitations and unlock your full potential? Join us as Adolfo Gómez Sánchez, best-selling author, speaker, and Chief Passion Officer at Gold Results, shares his remarkable journey from competitive athletics to leadership in performance psychology. Adolfo Gómez Sánchez and Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor …

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From Chi-Town to China: Navigating Identity, Supply Chain, and the China Dream with Joshua Charles Woodard 1:07:57

2M ago1:07:57

1:07:57

What does it really mean to live in-between—cultures, dreams, identities? Joshua Charles Woodard, entrepreneur, engineer, artist, and nightlife maestro, has spent his life exploring this very question. In our first episode, Josh (affectionately known as "Jashy") shares the incredible journey that took him from Chicago's South Side to Beijing’s pres…

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Empowering Multilingual Learners: Transformative Strategies for Educators with Katherine Hamilton 30:46

2M ago30:46

30:46

Send us a text How can creating language-rich environments empower multilingual learners and elevate the educational experience for everyone in the classroom? Join us for a transformative discussion with Katherine Hamilton, former Vice President of Programs for Ensemble Learning, as she reveals powerful strategies to achieve just that. Summary: In …

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What Brands Get Wrong About the New America, Navigating Cultural Nuance with Julia Glidden & Ruth Moss 42:04

2M ago42:04

42:04

People make assumptions. While that may seem like a common character flaw, it can have serious implications on brand perception. When marketers rely on outdated stereotypes and beliefs about the American public, they are ignoring the complex reality in which consumers live. Today’s consumer is far more nuanced than the binary labels imposed upon th…

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Forest Magic: Inspiring Kids to Connect with Nature Through Play and Imagination 32:09

2M ago32:09

32:09

Send us a text What if stories and play were the bridge between children (and their grown ups) and nature? Join us as we explore this concept with Susie Spikol, a naturalist and educator whose enchanting book, Forest Magic for Kids: How to Find Fairies, Make a Secret Fort, and Cook Up an Elfin Picnic, serves as a portal to the wonders of the natura…

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L-M-N-O-Play! Unlocking Childhood Magic Through Picture Books and Play 38:19

2M ago38:19

38:19

Send us a text How can picture books and play combine to spark creativity, empathy, and joy in our youngest learners? Join the conversation with Rachel Rubin and Annie Dycus, the innovative minds behind L-M-N-O Play, a subscription service that uses open-ended play and amazing picture books to engage young minds (while sparking wonder in their grow…

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Rudy Rupak: The Creative Composer Bringing Cultures Together 4:36

2M ago4:36

4:36

In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary journey of Rudy Rupak, the creative composer who is breaking barriers and bringing cultures together through the universal language of music. From a childhood passion kept hidden due to family expectations to his bold decision to pursue music later in life, Rudy’s story is a powerful testament to the …

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Latino Entrepreneurs, Mexico, and the Market Opportunity Brands Can’t Ignore with Israel Serna 40:22

2M ago40:22

40:22

For many entrepreneurs, success isn’t just about top-line growth. It’s seizing opportunities to break barriers and shape their identities as cultural and economic drivers. That’s especially true within the Latino community, where small businesses continue to power economic growth in both the U.S. and Mexico. But thriving in today’s marketplace requ…

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Dr. Crystal Y. Campbell On Celebrating Every Child Through Play-Based Learning and Early Childhood Advocacy 56:23

2M ago56:23

56:23

Send us a text Imagine an early childhood classroom filled with diverse books, engaging play centers, and joyful experiential learning where every child feels seen and valued. How does play-based learning help celebrate the unique strengths each child brings to the classroom? Join us this week as we talk about the importance of early childhood educ…

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Toucan Do It! Inspiring Young Conservationists with Hayley Rocco and John Rocco 34:17

3M ago34:17

34:17

Send us a text How can a children's book spark a lifelong passion for conservation and inspire young activists to protect our planet's endangered species? Today we learn how "toucan" help endangered species. Dynamic author-illustrator duo Hayley and John Rocco discuss the power of storytelling to empower young conservationists. We celebrate the boo…

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Advocacy, access, equity, and support for students and faculty, as AI is adopted in a multicultural urban college. 1:46:41

3M ago1:46:41

1:46:41

A conversation with Chris Weidenbach, an English professor at Laney College in Oakland, California, and the longtime chair of the English department. We are joined by professors Tom Haymes and Bryan Alexander to discuss our experiences teaching, learning and using “AI.” Our conversation started with Chris’s lifelong engagement with human rights adv…

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Speaking Their Language: The ROI of Inclusive Marketing with Crystal Marie McDaniels 36:33

3M ago36:33

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Inclusive marketing isn't just about doing the right thing—it’s about doing what works. When companies fail to speak the cultural language of their audiences, they risk more than lost market share. Brands lose trust, relevance, and relationships. But when inclusion is rooted in strategy rather than performative gestures, it becomes a powerful busin…

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Unveiling the Past: A Tale of Resistance And Courage with Michael P. Spradlin’s Threat of the Spider 36:38

3M ago36:38

36:38

Send us a text When Threat of the Spider, the second installment in the Web of the Spider series, came across my desk, I knew we had to have the author, Michael P Spradlin on the podcast. I couldn't put the book down. It's so relevant to where we are today. Join us for a discussion about why we need to study history and how important it is build me…

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Creating A Sustainable Tomorrow Through Play: Brenda Baker and the Madison Children’s Museum 23:19

3M ago23:19

23:19

Send us a text How can small steps spark significant changes for a healthier planet? Brenda Baker, Vice President of Exhibits, Facilities, and Strategic Initiatives at the Madison Children's Museum, walks us through the newly published (AND FREE) Climate Action Playbook designed to inspire and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. …

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Inside the Science of Building Brand Trust Through Storytelling with Kate Smiley 43:56

3M ago43:56

43:56

Trust is at the heart of effective communication today, particularly when it comes to science and healthcare. In a time when mistrust of institutions is growing, communicators must prioritize building authentic connections rather thanrelying solely on facts and figures. It’s not just about relaying information. Brands must understand audience conce…

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Learning Unboxed with Dr. Annalies Corbin: Transforming How We Learn and Teach 28:10

3M ago28:10

28:10

Send us a text We’re reimagining the future of education in this episode of the Adventures in Learning podcast with Dr. Annalies Corbin, the chief goddess of the PAST Foundation. Dr. Annalies helps us discover how to bridge the gap between learning and real-world skills while empowering educators and fostering a community of lifelong learners. Summ…

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Storytelling, Education, and AI in this Chaotic Political Moment 1:57:47

4M ago1:57:47

1:57:47

A conversation with Joe Lambert, an innovator of telling stories using digital technologies, educator, and co-founder of StoryCenter.org (originally the Center for Digital Storytelling), about his work in these unsettled times. We are joined by professors Tom Haymes and Bryan Alexander to discuss our experiences teaching, learning and using “AI.” J…

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Exploring Life Connections Through Art and Nature with Juana Martinez-Neal 32:01

3M ago32:01

32:01

Send us a text You know Juana Martinez-Neal as the recipient of the 2019 Caldecott Honor for Alma and How She Got Her Name, her debut picture book as author-illustrator. You might also know her as the New York Times bestselling illustrator recipient of the 2020 Robert F. Sibert Medal for Fry Bread: A Native American Story and the 2018 Pura Belpré M…

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Transforming Burnout with Dr. Gitima Sharma: Finding Joy and Purpose through Self-Reflection and Connection 37:10

4M ago37:10

37:10

Send us a text Feeling overwhelmed by the fast-paced world around you? Discover how to transform burnout into joy and purpose with Dr. Gitima Sharma, as she shares her personal journey and expert insights. Learn practical strategies to cultivate a dynamic sense of purpose and foster connections in a digital era. Dr Diane leads us through a transfor…

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What Latin Music’s Global Rise Teaches Us About Culture, Consumers, and the Future of Marketing with Jose Abreu 50:00

4M ago50:00

50:00

Latin music is no longer a niche. It’s a global phenomenon reshaping how brands navigate an increasingly digital and culturally diverse landscape. Streaming platforms are breaking down barriers to discovery, giving artists instant access to global audiences and perpetuating cultural diffusion across borders. But with that access comes disruption an…

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From Flash Floods to Fire Towers: Stories of Growth and Resilience with Ann Braden and Caroline Starr Rose 26:21

4M ago26:21

26:21

Send us a text Get ready for some amazing adventures as you plan your summer reading journey with not one, but TWO thrilling middle grade tales of courage, growth, and resilience featuring strong female leads. Happy Book Birthdays to Ann Braden and Caroline Starr Rose! Join us as we unravel the magic behind Into the Rapids and The Burning Season, w…

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Where Are You, Bronte? Barbara McClintock on Honoring Tomie dePaola, Creative Journeys and the Transformative Power of Storytelling 38:09

4M ago38:09

38:09

Send us a text Where Are You, Bronte? celebrates its book birthday this week -- and this book should come with complementary tissues for the adults reading it! Beloved illustrator Barbara McClintock took on the herculean task of illustrating Tomie de Paola's final manuscript. The result is a beautiful collaboration that pays tribute to his style wh…

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Language Out, Culture In: Reframing Multicultural Marketing with Randy Gudiel 40:17

4M ago40:17

40:17

Despite America’s growing diversity, multicultural marketing continues to face persistent underinvestment andinconsistency. While Black and Latino consumers make up approximately 30% of the U.S. population, early multicultural campaigns received less than 5% of national advertising budgets, a gap that has improved slightly but remains amajor challe…

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The Gate, The Girl, and The Dragon A Magical Middle Grade Odyssey with author Grace Lin 30:28

4M ago30:28

30:28

Send us a text The Gate, The Girl, and The Dragon is like a mug of hot tea on a snowy day. It warms your soul and sparks the imagination. The characters are memorable and Grace Lin’s lyrical storytelling and gorgeous illustrations are sure to make this an instant beloved classic for families and classrooms everywhere. In this episode of the Adventu…

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Artificial Intelligence, Abolition, and Luxury Surveillance 1:35:18

5M ago1:35:18

1:35:18

A conversation with Dr. Chris Gilliard, Co-Director of The Critical Internet Studies Institute, about his approach to writing, privacy, and “artificial intelligence.” We are joined by professors Tom Haymes and Bryan Alexander to discuss our experiences teaching and learning, and Chris starts by explaining his stance as an “AI abolitionist.” He shar…

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Odder Otters, Pocket Bears, Arctophiles, and Championing Libraries with author Katherine Applegate 26:45

5M ago26:45

26:45

Send us a text What's better than a novel in verse about a wild sea otter rescued by the Monterray Aquarium? A beautiful picture book that tells that otter's story! Award winning author Katherine Applegate returns to chat all things otter, as we explore environmental themes in her magical Odder: An Otter's Story, illustrated by Charles Santoso. We …

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Are You a Friend of Dorothy? Exploring History and Connection with Kyle Lukoff and Levi Hastings 27:28

5M ago27:28

27:28

Send us a text How did a humorous military anecdote about a mysterious Dorothy evolve into an enlightening nonfiction picture book about LGBTQIA history? Author Kyle Lukhoff and illustrator Levi Hastings share the creative journey behind Are You a Friend of Dorothy? Kyle and Levi discuss the challenges and joys of representing complex identities in…

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Multicultural Marketing Isn’t Optional, It’s a Business Imperative with Hernan Tagliani 35:36

5M ago35:36

35:36

Despite the U.S. being home to the second-largest Spanish-speaking population in the world, investment in multicultural marketing, particularly Hispanic marketing, remains disproportionately low, representing just 6–7% of total ad spend. This is a missed opportunity and a risk for brands looking to stay relevant in an increasingly diverse marketpla…

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Intentionally Equitable Hospitality as Critical Instructional Design 1:16:45

5M ago1:16:45

1:16:45

A conversation with Dr. Maha Bali about “Intentionally Equitable Hospitality” (IEH) and how this professional development journey emerged from her earlier projects Virtually Connecting and Equity Unbound. A professor of practice at the Center for Learning and Teaching at the American University in Cairo, we were joined by professors Tom Haymes and …

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Laurie Halse Anderson: Rebellion 1776, Celebrating Historical Fiction, and Protecting Our Freedom to Read 38:13

5M ago38:13

38:13

Send us a text Celebrate Library Week and the freedom to read with acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson. On this episode, we celebrate Laurie's latest release, Rebellion 1776, an adventure that began as Laurie recovered from COVID-19. Inspired by Abigail Adams' smallpox inoculation, this tale unravels the lives of working-class youth in Boston du…

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The Role of Race in Consumer Behavior and Inclusive Markets with Sonya A. Grier 43:17

5M ago43:17

43:17

Despite the headlines, rollbacks, and legal battles, the conversation around race has never been more crucial for marketers and businesses. While diversity and inclusion (D&I) often dominate discussions, doing so serves only as adistraction from the broader concerns surrounding the racial dynamics embedded in our society. The issues of race aren’t …

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Exploring A Universe of Rainbows: Poetry Meets Science with Matt Forrest Esenwine 32:04

5M ago32:04

32:04

Send us a text Happy Poetry Month! This week we welcome Matt Forrest Esenwine, poetry's champion and ambassador, to the podcast to talk about his new anthology, A Universe of Rainbows: Multicolored Poems for a Multicolored World. What do Yellowstone's Grand Prismatic Spring, Peru's Vinicunca mountain, the star Betelgeuse, and a drop of water have i…

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Momoko Abe - Japanese Children's Book Author and Illustrator 1:11:22

5M ago1:11:22

1:11:22

🎨 From Ballet Shoes to Picture Books: The Creative Journey of Momoko Abe | Creatives Across Borders 🌍 In this inspiring episode of Creatives Across Borders, I sit down with the incredibly talented Momoko Abe—Japanese-born author, illustrator, and creative powerhouse behind the hit picture book Avocado Asks. We explore Momoko’s unique path from aspi…

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Challenges in higher education from a new federal administration 1:29:29

6M ago1:29:29

1:29:29

This episode of “Talking with machines” features a conversation with Professor Robert Brem from California State University East Bay and the College of Alameda community college. I was joined by Tom Haymes and Bryan Alexander as we discussed recent challenges in higher education, the US Department of Education, and the political factions supporting…

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It’s No Mystery: Making Reading Exciting with Best-Selling Author Stuart Gibbs 33:49

6M ago33:49

33:49

Send us a text Embark on a thrilling adventure with Stuart Gibbs, a master of storytelling who turns reluctant readers into avid book enthusiasts. The author behind such hit series as Spy School and Fun Jungle takes us on his creative journey through the realm of middle-grade fiction. Want to know what borborygmus means? We've got you covered (and …

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The Power of Authenticity in Creator and Influencer Marketing Strategies with Gabe Mederos 45:36

6M ago45:36

45:36

Influencer marketing has evolved into a powerful strategy for brands looking to engage diverse audiences. Influencers leverage their broad reach to drive awareness and inspire consumer buy-in, while creator marketing enables passionate content creators to engage and connect with niche communities. Brands are increasingly incorporating both approach…