Once feeling like "just another guy," English teacher Marty Brandt discovered his profound impact when a former student, now a filmmaker, credited him as the catalyst for his success. Inspired by his Teacher of the Year award, Brandt reflects on his journey to foster growth and creativity in nearly three decades of teaching.

Once a struggling student, Don Dumas found purpose through a teacher who believed in him. Now a celebrated educator, he pays it forward by inspiring his own students to rise above their circumstances.

Four Black college students share their school experiences, confronting racism and advocating for equity through diverse, culturally responsive teaching.

Chris Hasegawa shares what makes great science teaching impactful and reflects on the powerful lessons from students who changed his life.

Fred Shoemaker, one of America’s top golf instructors, reveals how empowering self-discovery over fixing flaws transforms teaching, parenting, and coaching. Hear insights on curiosity, contribution, and the power of feedback to inspire growth.

Dr. Micia Mosely and her former student, now teacher Belinda Bellinger, reunite decades later to reflect on their journeys, collaborate as colleagues, and discuss the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement in education.

Josh Gaston shares his journey teaching English abroad, navigating cultural norms, and empowering students while adapting to diverse practices.

High school teacher Jackie Rooney reconnects with her students through a heartfelt letter amid the pandemic and reflects on addressing racism and police brutality in the classroom after George Floyd's killing.

Mike Barnard's failed audition led to a transformative journey with his drama teacher, Jim Lund, inspiring his path to award-winning filmmaking.

High school biology teacher Rachell Auld shares her journey of teaching and connecting with students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her story reveals the challenges, rewards, and resilience that define this unprecedented time in education.

When Crawford High School closed due to COVID-19, many families lacked internet access and technology for online learning. Led by student body president Tina Tran, a group of students worked together with a teacher to help bridge the gap and support their community.

Carmen Garvis transitioned from engineering to teaching in 2004, with a mission to inspire young women to pursue careers in science. During the COVID-19 crisis, she shares how she helped a shy student find her voice and joined colleagues in using 3-D printers to create face shields for school meal volunteers.

At just 14 years old, Mahboba Ansari fled Afghanistan seeking a better future, arriving in Modesto, California in 2016. With the guidance of her high school teacher Lindsey Bird, Mahboba overcame challenges and earned acceptance to UC Davis, where she begins her journey in fall 2020.

Dean Lesicko, with over 30 years in education, has dedicated his career to supporting marginalized youth. His journey was inspired by the impact of his 3rd-grade teacher, Ken Meberg.

Author and educator Alfie Kohn challenges us to define our shared, long-term goals for children before identifying what makes a good teacher. In this thought-provoking podcast, he argues that to cultivate thoughtful, life-long learners, teachers must empower students to question, challenge, and take control of their own learning.

In spring 2019, CSU San Bernardino conducted a Celebration of Teaching Event for undergraduates interested in becoming a teachers. Faculty member, Wil Greer, shared this moving story about a child and the teachers who changed his life. 

Robert Nelsen was content to work on his ranch in Montana and to ride in the rodeo.  As "punishment" for being a "smart ass," Nelsen's high school teacher made him apply for college. Now Dr. Nelsen is now president of one of California's largest public universities. 

Nikki Ahrenstorff believed her high school was "reserved for a special group of people" and that she wasn't part of it. That changed when she took an English class with Mr. Childs.

Efrain Solis, a professional opera singer, honors his high school music and drama teacher who helped him discover his voice.

Brian Rankin’s high school physics teacher demonstrated a key principle by lying on a bed of nails, placing a cinder block on his chest, and having Brian smash it with a sledgehammer. Now a physicist, Brian uses laser technology to tackle real-world challenge