Best The Masterpiece Academy Podcasts (2025)

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Tutankhamun’s Table: Food & Drink for a King 9:48

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26d ago9:48

9:48

In 1922, the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings astounded archaeologists and the public alike. Beyond the ornate treasures, the tomb of the famous pharaoh offered insight into the daily life and diet of Ancient Egyptians. In this 10-Minute talk, Salima Ikram FBA delves into the findings of Tutankhamun’s chamber and what thes…

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Judith Butler on Gender 12:14

1M ago12:14

12:14

“Gender studies as a discipline is by definition interdisciplinary, drawing from several paradigms, and it is defined by a set of debates and problematics, not by statements of doctrine or settled truths.” In this 10-Minute Talk, Judith Butler FBA discusses the conceptual contributions of gender as a field of study to a wide range of areas of resea…

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Who invented the potato? And why should we care? 10:04

2M ago10:04

10:04

"How did Sir Walter Raleigh invent the potato?” In this 10-Minute Talk, Rebecca Earle FBA takes up Philomena Cunk’s question to explore the global history of the potato and explain why we should care. Speaker: Professor Rebecca Earle FBA 10-Minute Talks are a series of pre-recorded talks from Fellows of the British Academy screened on YouTube and a…

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#17. Unearthing Connections: Teaching With Truth Across Curriculum 8:11

2M ago8:11

8:11

In this episode of Learning by Design, Krishna Cart introduces a new professional development course designed for K-12 educators, focusing on integrating archaeology into teaching. The course, titled 'Unearthing Connections,' emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning and critical thinking, encouraging students to explore biblical texts through…

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The Man Who Shot Nelson: A French Take on Trafalgar 11:58

3M ago11:58

11:58

From a fake news report claiming a French victory to fictional memoirs and literary retellings, the Battle of Trafalgar’s legacy in France became shrouded in myth over the following years of the Nineteenth Century, particularly around the identity of the man who shot Nelson. In this 10-Minute Talk, Dr David McCallam recounts how the French responde…

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Why Truth is Not Enough 13:29

3M ago13:29

13:29

In a post-truth world, can we always trust data? And what about our human biases? Walking us through ‘the ladder of misinference’, Alex Edmans FBA outlines how statistics and studies can feed misinformation, and the tools we need to resist and make informed choices. You can learn more from Professor Edmans on the subject in his recent book ‘May Con…

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The 21st Century Resurgence of Eugenics 10:55

3M ago10:55

10:55

Eugenics is a coercive ideology with a destructive history over the course of the 19th and 20th Centuries. But did support for eugenics die out after the Second World War? Unpacking the movement and its roots in academia, Rebecca Sear FBA explores the question of whether we are witnessing a resurgence in eugenics today. Speaker: Rebecca Sear FBA, P…

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Education, Not Indoctrination: Santos Muñoz on Policy 8040 and Parental Rights 0:33

4M ago0:33

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By https://masterpiece-academy.castos.com/

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#16. Policy 8040, Transparency and Parental Partnership 1:33:25

4M ago1:33:25

1:33:25

Santos Munoz on Restoring Trust in Loudoun County Public Schools On February 20, 2008, a U.S. Navy ship launched a missile at a crippled satellite — a classified mission known as Operation Burnt Frost. One of the officers behind that historic moment was Santos Muñoz, a decorated U.S. Air Force space and missile officer. Now, Muñoz is stepping into …

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#15. What Actually Helps Students Read and Write Better? 15:21

4M ago15:21

15:21

Why are so many students still struggling with reading and writing—and what actually works to help them succeed? In this episode, Krishna Cart, MA Ed, NBCT, explores how explicit, structured literacy instruction is changing the game at Masterpiece Academy’s Reading and Writing Lab. With only 33% of fourth graders reading at or above grade level, an…

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The Dead Sea Scrolls and Beginnings of Western Mysticism 12:49

4M ago12:49

12:49

What are the Dead Sea Scrolls? Who discovered them? And why are they important? Professor Philip Alexander FBA explores the history of the scrolls, and their role in uncovering the beginnings of Western Mysticism. Want to learn more from the British Academy? Check out our Folklore Reimagined season on our website: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.u…

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# 14. Sharpening Arrows: A Family's Guide to the National Bible Bee 4:05

4M ago4:05

4:05

In this special podcast trailer, John and Krishna Cart—regional hosts and passionate family ministry leaders—invite you to the transformative journey of the National Bible Bee. With only 3% of American teens reading the Bible daily and more than half walking away from the church by their twenties, families face a spiritual crisis. But there is hope…

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#13. Inside our Affiliation with Liberty University Online Academy 14:17

4M ago14:17

14:17

Blended, Biblical, and Built for Purpose In this episode of Learning by Design, host Krishna Cart unpacks how The Masterpiece Academy is redefining Christian education through its powerful affiliation with Liberty University Online Academy (LUOA). This conversation offers a full overview of the blended learning model, in which students receive accr…

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#12. Academic Excellence Over Politics. Why School Board Matters More Than Ever? 1:22:56

5M ago1:22:56

1:22:56

Guest: Amy Riccardi, Loudoun County School Board Candidate (Sterling) What if people were making the most critical decisions affecting your child’s education, you’ve never heard of—and never voted for? In this powerful episode, Krishna Cart sits down with Amy Riccardi, a Loudoun County mom, educator, and school board candidate, who is sounding the …

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#11. From Classroom to Calling: How Project-Based Learning and Community Prepares Students for Real Life 12:52

5M ago12:52

12:52

Episode Summary In this inspiring episode of the Masterpiece Academy Podcast, Krishna Cart explores the transformative power of Project-Based Learning (PBL) within a Christ-centered education model. You'll discover how Masterpiece Academy goes beyond traditional online schooling — combining accredited academics, personal mentorship, and vibrant com…

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#10. Why Does Bible-Based Education Matter? 10:18

5M ago10:18

10:18

In this episode of Learning by Design, host Krishna Cart explores why Bible-based education is more essential than ever in 2025. As culture rapidly shifts and parents re-evaluate what matters in their children’s education, this conversation gets to the heart of what makes education transformative, not just informative. Mrs. Cart unpacks what Bible-…

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The rise and fall of Matthew Hopkins, Witchfinder General 13:07

6M ago13:07

13:07

What really happened when a breakdown of the legal system in the English Civil War fuelled a series of witch-hunts? In this 10-Minute Talk, Professor Ronald Hutton FBA delves into England's witch trials and Matthew Hopkins, the self-proclaimed Witchfinder General. For more from The British Academy’s Folklore Reimagined season, visit our website: ht…

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#9. From Reading to Writing to Real-World Impact 12:48

6M ago12:48

12:48

Episode 9: From Reading to Writing — The Power of Personal Statements In this episode of the Learning by Design podcast, host Krishna Cart offers practical tips and guidance for families on how to write a personal statement for college and technical programs like MATA (Monroe Advanced Technical Academy). Whether your teen is applying for college, s…

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#8. Raising Readers and Writers: Practical Literacy Tips for Parents 13:04

6M ago13:04

13:04

In this episode of Learning by Design, Krishna Cart explores how parents can play a pivotal role in their children’s literacy journey. Drawing on 25+ years of experience in literacy education, Krishna shares practical, research-backed strategies to build a literacy-rich home, nurture a love for reading and writing, and use technology mindfully. Whe…

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#7. Parenting by Design: Coaching Children Toward Purpose and Passion 57:33

6M ago57:33

57:33

In this inspiring episode, Krishna Cart welcomes former student Helena Gabriel and her father, Charles Gabriel, to explore how intentional parenting, early academic exposure, and faith-based values helped shape Helena and her sister Antonia’s journeys—from gifted test prep in elementary school to elite high school programs like TJ and the Academies…

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#6. PSAT to Paycheck. Scholarship Hacks No One Talks About 56:25

7M ago56:25

56:25

Episode 6: PSAT to Paycheck – Scholarships That No One Talks About Episode 6 of the Learning by Design Podcast: Think the PSAT is just another standardized test? Think again! In this episode, we uncover the hidden financial opportunities tied to the National Merit Scholarship Program—scholarships that could turn your test scores into tuition dollar…

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#6. Trailer: Scholarship Hacks No One Talks About 0:54

7M ago0:54

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In Episode 6 of the Learning by Design podcast, we take a deep dive into the National Merit® Scholarship Program—one of the most prestigious academic awards for high school students in the United States. If you’re a student aiming for this recognition or a parent looking to support your child’s academic journey, this guide is packed with essential …

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#5. High School Success Road Map. A Grade by Grade Success Guide. 50:55

7M ago50:55

50:55

Navigating high school can be overwhelming, but with the right plan, success is within reach! In this episode of the Learning by Design podcast, host Krishna Cart breaks down a step-by-step roadmap for students and families, guiding them through each year of high school—from 9th to 12th grade—to ensure they are well-prepared for college admissions,…

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#4. Academies of Loudoun Admissions Process: Tips and Strategies for Success 35:31

7M ago35:31

35:31

️ Applying to the Academies of Loudoun? Here’s your ultimate admissions guide! In this episode of Learning by Design, host Krishna Cart delves into the Academies of Loudoun admission process, providing expert insights into application requirements, STEM pathways, and strategies for success. Whether you're a student or parent, this episode offers es…

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#3. Cracking the Code: Insider Secrets to TJHSST Admissions 43:50

7M ago43:50

43:50

Getting into Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) is no easy feat—but we’ve got you covered! In this episode of Learning by Design, we break down the TJ admissions process, reveal insider strategies, and share expert tips to help students stand out. What You'll Learn: ✅ The key criteria TJHSST looks for in applicants ✅ A…

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#2. A TJ Alumnus STEM Journey: Lessons in Learning, Leading & Giving Back. 51:51

7M ago51:51

51:51

In this inspiring episode of Learning by Design, Krishna and Kyla sit down with Kunal Saxena, a proud alumnus of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), who was once a student and is now a mentor at Young Scholars Circle LLC/The Masterpiece Academy. Kunal shares his real-world experiences navigating rigorous academics, STE…

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#2. Lessons in Learning, Leading, and Giving Back with Kunal Saxena 51:50

8M ago51:50

51:50

In this inspiring episode of Learning by Design, hosts Krishna Cart and Kyla Pizana welcome special guest Kunal Saxena. From his early days at Young Scholar Circle to his experiences at the prestigious TJHSST and beyond, Kunal shares valuable lessons on mentorship, resilience, and the power of giving back. Discover how his journey from student to S…

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#1. Saxena's Family Journey: Personalized Learning in Action 36:34

8M ago36:34

36:34

In our very first episode of Learning by Design, we’re honored to spotlight Ana Saxena and her family. Ana, a dedicated mom, shares the inspiring story of her sons, Kunal and Ishaan, and their academic journeys shaped by personalized learning. From Kunal’s success as a TJHSST graduate to Ishaan’s pursuit of his academic dreams, their story exemplif…

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Schubert’s Die Forelle: how a classical music piece changes over time 11:20

10M ago11:20

11:20

Classical music is often wrongly considered to be unaffected by political and social change. Exploring Franz Schubert’s ‘Die Forelle’, Laura Tunbridge FBA considers the cultural history of a song and the importance of a piece of music changing over time – both in sound and meaning. Speaker: Professor Laura Tunbridge FBA, Professor of Music, Univers…

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'Salvator Mundi': Leonardo da Vinci's missing masterpiece? 10:30

11M ago10:30

10:30

‘Salvator Mundi’ is a painting surrounded by mysteries. In this talk, Professor Martin Kemp FBA explores evidence that it is indeed a work of Leonardo Da Vinci, the painting’s key components, and the alleged whereabouts of the ‘Salvator Mundi’ today. Speaker: Professor Martin Kemp FBA, Emeritus Professor of the History of Art, University of Oxford;…

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What does a neuropsychologist do? 6:58

11M ago6:58

6:58

What exactly is the work of a neuropsychologist? In this 10-Minute Talk, Professor Barbara Sahakian FBA unpacks some of her key work over the years and more recent ventures – from developing early models of memory testing to now transforming psychological tests into game apps. Speaker: Professor Barbara Sahakian FBA, Professor of Clinical Neuropsyc…

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Traditional Japanese theatre and audience interaction 9:31

11M ago9:31

9:31

Japanese theatre has, from its beginnings, encouraged audience participation – from formal fan-clubs to lessons on dancing and chanting. Hear Professor Drew Gerstle FBA take us through the key characteristics of Kabuki, Bunraku and Noh theatre and the ways viewers interacted with these 14th-17th century performances, both as patrons and amateur pra…

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What are empires, nation states and colonialism? 9:53

11M ago9:53

9:53

How do we understand empire in the modern age? In this 10-Minute Talk, Professor Gurminder K Bhambra challenges the idea that modern nation-states emerged as a result of the break-up of empire, and instead invites us to rethink what defines empire entirely. By considering different colonial processes and the impact these have on how we understand e…

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Books in wartime: innocent victims or guilty parties? 9:32

12M ago9:32

9:32

While books are often thought of as victims of war, looted or burned in libraries, in this 10-Minute Talk Professor Andrew Pettegree suggests an alternative narrative: books are essential in the waging of war. Sharing insights from his recent publication, ‘The Book at War’, Pettegree explores the active role of books in wartime from the Napoleonic …

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What was the relationship between Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings? 9:14

12M ago9:14

9:14

Expanding on her book, ‘Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings: An American Controversy’, Professor Annette Gordon-Reed unpacks the evidence around this contested relationship and the role of historians in erasing the narratives of enslaved people. Exploring the ‘American dilemma’, this talk investigates the contradiction between Jefferson’s commitment…

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Shakespeare in popular culture 7:42

1y ago7:42

7:42

What is it that makes great works from the past endure in the present? In this 10-Minute Talk, Professor Sir Jonathan Bate FBA explores Shakespeare’s legacy and his continued cultural presence over time. From influencing Jane Austen’s writing, to inspiring modern-day TV and film adaptations like 1999’s ‘10 Things I Hate About You’ and 2023’s ‘Anyon…

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What have sign languages taught us about human language development? 11:19

1y ago11:19

11:19

Sign language and how we use it and implement it into society has developed rapidly in the last 50 years, from little-to-no representation in education in the 1970s to the British Sign Language (BSL) Act 2022 and a new British Sign Language GCSE to be taught from 2025. In this 10-Minute Talk, Professor Bencie Woll FBA unpacks her research and invol…

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Aesthetics and emotions in pre-modern India 14:25

1y ago14:25

14:25

In the West, emotions are often understood through the philosophy of cognition and experimental psychology – separated from the world of art and aesthetic. However, in pre-modern India, aesthetic and emotion were deeply intertwined. In this 10-Minute Talk, Professor Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad FBA discusses how the aesthetics of drama and literature we…

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Freud, Hollywood and the male gaze 15:19

1y ago15:19

15:19

In this 10-Minute talk, Laura Mulvey FBA responds to three key questions regarding her 1975 essay ‘Visual Pleasure and Narrative Cinema’. Returning to the origins of the essay and the concept of the ‘male gaze’, Mulvey explores the cultural climate of feminism and Hollywood which drove the conception of this now-cult term and the newer, controversi…

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Genocide and International Law 11:20

1y ago11:20

11:20

‘Genocide’ (meaning “to kill a group”) was first used as a legal term in 1944 by Raphael Lemkin in the hope that it would come to signal the agreed limits of sovereign power, alongside the parallel developments of the concepts of human rights and crimes against humanity. Professor Philippe Sands Hon FBA explains the origins of the term, its implica…

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Hannah Arendt's lessons for our times: the banality of evil, totalitarianism and statelessness 8:00

1y ago8:00

8:00

Hannah Arendt (1906-1975) was one of the most influential political theorists and philosophers of the 20th Century. In this 10-Minute Talk, Professor Lyndsey Stonebridge FBA explores three of Arendt's key concepts – totalitarianism, statelessness and the banality of evil – to explain the importance of her thinking for our times. Speaker: Professor …

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What is extremism? 11:44

1y ago11:44

11:44

In a famous 1963 letter, Martin Luther King Jr. argued that ‘extremism’ is not an inherently bad thing because it can be a way of describing radical action for the extension of justice. Professor Quassim Cassam FBA explores what we mean by extremism, what makes an ideology or course of action extremist, and whether King was right. Speaker: Quassim …

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South Asia, the partition of India and the birth of three nations 11:37

1y ago11:37

11:37

Following the partition of India in 1947 and the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, what was once one nation became three. Presenting anecdotes from her book 'Shadows at Noon' – a rich history sharing the stories of South Asia from the 20th century – Professor Joya Chatterji FBA discusses her view that India, Pakistan and Bangladesh have remained m…

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Plato, Aristotle and the question of self: what makes you 'you'? 11:32

1y ago11:32

11:32

The question of what makes you ‘you’ has been a central theme in philosophical thought since ancient times. In this talk, Professor Richard Swinburne FBA takes us through the debates on personal identity, which were first had between Plato and Aristotle in the Western tradition. Through questioning the strength of the physicalist view, which says o…

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Coffee as connection – tradition, controversy and literary representations 16:23

1y ago16:23

16:23

Traversing the history of coffee through several literary examples, Professor Wen-chin Ouyang FBA explores coffee as not only a drink, but as tradition, commodity, and source of controversy. From the works of Mahmoud Darwish to Haruki Murakami, coffee has persisted as a social and intercultural tool. Hear more in her 10-Minute Talk. Speaker: Wen-ch…

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Why politics fails 10:07

1y ago10:07

10:07

Sharing insights from his book 'Why Politics Fails', in this 10-Minute Talk Ben Ansell FBA unpacks the challenges of democracy. Given that humans rarely agree, there can be no such thing as the ‘will of the people’ – which is why it’s so difficult to override individual self-interest in favour of our collective interest in resolving some of our mos…

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What makes us social? Autism, mentalising, and the need for new labels 11:10

1y ago11:10

11:10

How we understand autism has changed greatly over time. In this talk, Uta Frith FBA discusses developments in the scientific study of autism and its re-evaluation from a rarely diagnosed disorder to being conceptualised as a spectrum of neurodiversity. Autism can now be explored in relation to the mentalising system and other internal mechanisms th…

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The Lion of the 17th: the story of Georges Dukson and the Liberation of Paris 14:25

1y ago14:25

14:25

Gary Younge Hon FBA explores the French Liberation of 1944 and the story of Georges Dukson, "le Lion du 17ème", a soldier from French Equatorial Africa (now Gabon) who fought for the Free French forces during the liberation of Paris. Almost a million Africans, more than a million African Americans and roughly 16,0000 Caribbeans served in the Allied…

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#46 Point Break 1:05:34

1+ y ago1:05:34

1:05:34

Surf's up BTS fans! After an extended hiatus, we're back. To get us started off with a bang, we're going to pit Keanu against Keanu. That's right - we're going to see if the 1991 action classic POINT BREAK is better than, equal to, or worse than our beloved SPEED. Time to sit back, listen, and ask yourself: if you want the ultimate, you've got to b…

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#45 The Hunger 1:19:44

3+ y ago1:19:44

1:19:44

The SPEED gang sinks their teeth into the 80s cult film THE HUNGER starring Catherine Deneuve, David Bowie and Susan Sarandon. Can Keanu Reeves and the careening bus take on seedy 80s New York, luscious billowing curtains in blue light and three absurdly attractive leads? Grab your Ankh and tune in to find out. We are joined by extraordinary editor…