Legend Makers | Podcast en RSS.com

Legend Makers

por Scott Buell

Temporada 4

The School Year Ends. The Education Revolution Doesn’t

In this episode of the Legend Makers Podcast, Scott Buell sits down with Peter Hostrawser, Career Internship Educator and Program Coordinator at Naperville Community Unit School District 203, and host of the Disrupt Education Podcast. Peter has spent more than 23 years in education building programs that connect students to real-world learning, career readiness, internships, entrepreneurship, and workforce development. His mission is simple but powerful: help students find and show their value. Scott and Peter talk about why the traditional education model is being challenged, why grades and test scores are no longer enough, and why students need authentic experiences before they graduate. They also dig into CTE, career pathways, internships, durable skills, AI, edtech, community partnerships, and the growing need to connect academics with the professional world. This conversation is especially relevant for teachers, school leaders, CTE directors, workforce development partners, and anyone who believes students need more than classroom instruction to prepare for the future. As Peter says near the end of the episode: life is short. If you have something you want to build, mentor, push, or create, try it. Learn, fail, learn, fail, learn, fail, succeed. This episode closes out the 2025/26 school year with a clear message: the school year may end, but the education revolution does not. Learn more about Drone Legends: https://www.dronelegends.com Connect with Peter Hostrawser: https://www.peterhostrawser.com Peter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-hostrawser-71723/ Listen to Disrupt Education: https://www.disrupteducationpodcast.com

He Escaped the Odds. Now He Teaches Kids How to Build a Future.

In this episode of the Legend Makers Podcast, Scott sits down with Leonard “Lenny The Boss” Nesmith, founder and CEO of the Kids Real Estate & Financial Literacy Academy. Lenny grew up in North Philadelphia as the youngest of 10 children in a crowded row home. His neighborhood was surrounded by violence, drugs, and pressure. But at 14 years old, he made a decision that changed his life. Instead of following his friends to the same high school, Lenny chose a school outside his neighborhood. Not because it was academically better, but because it put him around different people and a different environment. That one choice helped him go from sitting in the back of the class to making the honor roll, working two jobs as a teenager, learning a trade, and buying his first house at 19. Today, Lenny teaches students the lessons he wishes someone had taught him earlier: mindset, confidence, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, real estate, and how to design a life instead of drifting through one. This conversation is about mentorship, environment, money, choices, and helping kids see what is possible. Connect with Lenny: Website: kidsrealestateacademy.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonard-nesmith-369b57128/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lenny_the_boss723/ Subscribe to Legend Makers for more conversations with educators, entrepreneurs, and leaders helping kids build brighter futures.

Dr. Jeffrey Zwiebel: Preparing Students for Life Beyond the Test

In this episode of the Legend Makers Podcast, Scott Buell sits down with Dr. Jeffrey Zwiebel, a longtime K-12 education leader, former superintendent, and current EdTech strategist, to talk about leadership, technology, student wellness, and the future of education. Dr. Zwiebel brings more than three decades of experience in public education, including nine years as a superintendent in Pennsylvania. His perspective is grounded in real district leadership, including budget pressure, board dynamics, student safety, staff support, and the difficult decisions that come with leading schools through crisis. The conversation begins with Dr. Zwiebel’s unexpected path into education. Before becoming a superintendent, he started as a musician and band director. A summer teaching high school drumline helped him see the impact educators can have on students, and that experience shaped the rest of his career. Scott and Dr. Zwiebel also discuss the pressure school leaders face, especially during moments of financial strain and public scrutiny. Dr. Zwiebel shares openly about the personal toll of leadership, the impact on family, and how that experience eventually led him into the EdTech space. A major focus of the episode is the role of AI in schools. Dr. Zwiebel argues that blocking AI is the wrong response. Instead, educators must help students learn how to use AI responsibly, safely, and productively. He compares the current moment to the early days of the internet in schools, but makes clear that AI is moving much faster and requires a more intentional approach. Scott and Dr. Zwiebel also explore how teachers can use AI as a creative and practical tool, not just as a shortcut for writing assignments. They discuss student data privacy, responsible prompting, teacher training, district policy, and the need for schools to prepare students for a world where technology is already embedded in nearly every career path. The episode closes with a broader reflection on the future of education. Dr. Zwiebel challenges schools to think beyond test scores and focus on preparing students with the skills they need for college, military service, careers, and life. Key Topics Dr. Zwiebel’s path from musician to educator to superintendent The real pressure of district leadership Why student safety and wellness are operational issues, not buzzwords How the pandemic exposed opportunities for change in education Why schools should teach responsible AI use instead of blocking it The importance of student data privacy How teachers can help students use AI constructively Why training must support both teachers and administrators The future of education beyond test scores Preparing students for real-world success About Dr. Jeffrey Zwiebel Dr. Jeffrey Zwiebel is a K-12 education leader, former superintendent, and EdTech strategist. After more than 30 years in public education, he now works in the student digital wellness space, helping schools think through technology, safety, AI, and student support from both an educator and district leadership perspective. Connect Follow Dr. Jeffrey Zwiebel on LinkedIn. Learn more about the Legend Makers Podcast and Drone Legends at DroneLegends.com.

Second Graders Caught AI Making a Mistake, and Knew How to Fix It

What if the future of AI literacy begins in second grade? In this episode Drone Legends founder, Scott Buell is joined by Carrie Robledo and Kim Collazo, two longtime Legend Makers who were integrating drones, robotics, coding, and STEM challenges into classrooms before these tools became mainstream. Carrie and Kim look back at their early drone work, including classroom drone grants, robotics clubs, and GLIDE: Girls Leading Innovation with Drones and Engineering. But the conversation quickly moves from drones to the bigger question facing educators today: how do we prepare students for a world where AI is everywhere? Carrie shares the story of her second grade Insect Detectives project, where students used Google’s Teachable Machine to train an AI model to identify insects and non-insects. After the model incorrectly classified a cardinal as an insect, her students did something remarkable: they questioned the machine. They wondered whether the model had seen so many red ladybugs that it learned the wrong association. Then they suggested adding images of red non-insects to improve the training data. That moment captures the heart of this episode. The goal is not just to teach kids how to use technology. The goal is to help them become curious, skeptical, collaborative problem solvers who can ask, “Why did the machine get that wrong?” Scott, Carrie, and Kim also discuss attention spans, purposeful technology use, graphic novels, picture books, hands-on science, owl pellet dissections, read-alouds, and why curiosity remains one of the most important forces in learning. Guests Carrie Robledo is a second grade teacher and former instructional technology facilitator working on K–5 AI literacy through the Elementary AI project. Kim Collazo is a retired educator, former instructional technology facilitator, picture book author, and longtime collaborator in STEM, drones, and classroom innovation. Resources Mentioned Google Teachable Machine Elementary AI NC State Presidential AI Challenge GLIDE: Girls Leading Innovation with Drones and Engineering Webtoon-style reading Epic The Thinking Game Little Legends Drone Legends Collazo Cove

The Guy Who Wrote a Story Where Kids Save the World

This episode is different. Scott sits down with longtime friend Jake Zortman—someone he’s known since childhood—to unpack the origin and deeper meaning behind The Rise of the Legends. What starts as a conversation about a book quickly becomes something bigger: a discussion about how kids learn, what’s missing in education today, and why story might be the most powerful teaching tool we’ve overlooked. Jake isn’t just an author. He’s a cinematographer, storyteller, and builder of worlds. And Rise of the Legends isn’t just a novel—it’s a framework for how kids can see themselves as capable, creative, and essential. At its core, this episode asks a simple but important question: What happens when kids stop consuming… and start building? What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why story is one of the most effective ways to teach STEM concepts The real inspiration behind The Rise of the Legends How hands-on learning shapes confidence, curiosity, and long-term success What today’s education system gets wrong about how kids learn The moment Jake realized this book needed to exist How a mysterious message from the past became the foundation of the story Why kids need identity, purpose, and adventure—not just instruction About the Book: The Rise of the Legends When Mikaela Kadono moves into a strange new house, everything in her life changes. She meets new friends. Joins a club called Drone Legends. And on their very first mission, something unexpected happens—a mysterious AI drone enters their world. But this is just the beginning. What follows is a high-stakes adventure involving hidden messages from the past, secret tunnels, advanced technology, and a growing realization: This story might have been written for them. As Mikaela and her team race to solve the mystery, they begin to uncover something bigger than they ever imagined—one that ties directly to their future… and the fate of the world. Key Themes from the Conversation 1. Kids Learn by Doing, Not Just Listening Jake breaks down why traditional learning often misses the mark—and why hands-on exploration creates deeper understanding. 2. Story as a Learning Engine From ancient storytelling to modern education, narrative has always been the bridge between knowledge and meaning. 3. Identity Drives Behavior When kids begin to see themselves as builders, creators, and problem-solvers, everything changes. 4. The Power of Curiosity The best learning doesn’t come from instruction—it comes from questions. Resources & Links 📘 The Rise of the Legends by Jake Zortman 🌐 Website: RiseOfTheLegends.com 🧪 Free educational resources, lesson plans, and activities available on the site 🚀 “Legends Unleashed” STEM camp program (via Stemfinity): https://stemfinity.com/products/legends-unleashed-literacy-infused-stem-camp?keyword=Legends%20Un Subscribe & Follow If you’re an educator, parent, or someone who believes in building the next generation of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers—this podcast is for you. Follow Legend Makers for more conversations with the people shaping the future of learning.

Why Smart Kids Struggle, with Jason Kantor, Executive Function Coach

Jason Kantor is the Director of Executive Functions at InPractice Psychology in New York, a state-certified high school teacher, and a reading specialist with nearly a decade of experience supporting students with learning differences. In this episode, Jason shares his personal journey from struggling student to executive function expert, and explains why many students labeled as underperforming are not lacking intelligence but foundational skills. We discuss: What executive function skills are and why they matter The connection between procrastination and emotional dysregulation How perfectionism can derail academic performance Practical organization systems that actually work The role of routine in building time management and task completion The boundaries between executive function coaching and therapy Why increased education choice and accessible ed-tech tools are reshaping learning This conversation is especially relevant for educators, parents, and school leaders looking to better understand the invisible skills that drive academic and life success. Jason also reflects on the deeper motivation behind teaching — helping students overcome the struggles he once faced himself. For more insights from Jason, follow him on X: @thejasonkantor Subscribe to the Legend Makers Podcast for more conversations on education, leadership, and building future-ready learners. Visit Drone Legends online at www.dronelegends.com

Building a Better World Starts in Preschool | Paul Buckley

In this episode of the Legend Makers Podcast, Scott Buell sits down with Paul Buckley, founder of Ratio Staffing, for a powerful conversation about purpose, integrity, and why the future of our society begins in preschool classrooms. Paul shares how his background in process improvement led him into the world of early childhood education. What started as helping a single preschool fix a broken hiring process quickly revealed a larger issue. Traditional staffing models were not built for preschool. They created unnecessary friction, complexity, and stress for both schools and teachers. Instead of accepting the status quo, Paul built Ratio Staffing to remove barriers and allow direct connection between preschools and educators. His mission is simple: provide flexibility, restore agency, and respect the people doing some of the most important work in our communities. At the heart of this conversation is a profound belief. What happens inside preschool classrooms reflects the very values we claim we want in the world. Calm. Connection. Collaboration. Empathy. It is already happening in small rooms with young children every day. Scott challenges Paul on what truly drives him as a founder. His answer goes beyond profit. He speaks about feeling fortunate in life and wanting to give back. He speaks about his three sons and the importance of being able to look them in the eye and feel aligned with the work he does each day. For Paul, building something meaningful is about integrity as much as impact. The episode closes on optimism. In a time when it is easy to believe the world is divided, Paul sees hope in the number of people who care deeply about children, education, and connection. If we pay attention to what is working in preschool classrooms, we may find a blueprint for building a better world. This is a conversation about education, but it is also about character, responsibility, and the courage to fix broken systems. If you care about children, schools, or building something that truly matters, this episode is for you. https://empathyfirm.com/paul_buckley/ https://www.dronelegends.com/

The Skills Kids Need That Schools Are Missing with Julia Gabor

In this episode of the Legend Makers Podcast, Scott Buell sits down with Julia Gabor, founder of KidGrit and a longtime leader in youth development and educator support. Julia brings more than two decades of experience working with students, teachers, and school systems across the country, with a focus on helping young people develop the skills they need to thrive beyond the classroom. This conversation explores what it really means to prepare students for an uncertain and rapidly changing future. Julia shares her personal story, including how early life experiences shaped her belief in resilience, creativity, and self-awareness. Together, Scott and Julia examine why skills like adaptability, critical thinking, self-regulation, and perseverance cannot be taught through scripted programs, but must be developed through real challenge, reflection, and connection. Julia also discusses the evolution of social-emotional learning, the limitations of purely digital solutions, and why authentic human connection remains at the center of meaningful education. The episode offers thoughtful insights for educators who feel burned out, parents who want more for their children, and leaders who are rethinking what success in education should look like. Key Topics Covered Why grit is developed through experience, not instruction The difference between teaching content and building life skills How challenge and failure help students develop confidence and resilience The role of educators in modeling emotional regulation and purpose Why timeless skills matter more than ever in an AI-driven world Reconnecting education to relevance, meaning, and real life As schools face increasing pressure to do more with less, this episode offers a grounded and hopeful perspective on what truly helps students succeed. Julia reminds us that while technology and trends will continue to evolve, the foundational skills that shape capable, confident adults remain the same. For anyone committed to developing well-rounded, resilient learners, this conversation provides clarity, inspiration, and practical insight. About the Guest Julia Gabor is the founder of KidGrit, an organization dedicated to helping young people and educators build essential life skills through intentional programming and professional development. Her work spans youth development, educator wellness, and leadership training, with a focus on connection, self-awareness, and long-term growth. Listen and Subscribe The Legend Makers Podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. New episodes feature educators, innovators, and leaders who are shaping the future of learning by helping students unlock their full potential. Follow Drone Legends

They Don't Need a Lane. They Need a Chance.

In this episode of the Legend Makers Podcast, Scott Buell speaks with Jason Allen, Executive Director of the Franklin Center for Innovation in Frankfort, Kentucky, about education, community, and what happens when students are trusted with real responsibility. Jason’s path into nonprofit and education work is unconventional. His background spans military service as a psychiatric specialist, manufacturing and process optimization, and community based innovation. Across every chapter of his career, one theme remains constant: helping people simplify complexity and recognize their own capability. While drones are a visible tool in Jason’s work, this conversation makes it clear that technology is not the end goal. Instead, drones serve as a gateway to confidence, curiosity, and early experiences of success that reshape how students see themselves. Key themes from the episode include: Why early experiences of success matter more than credentials or outcomes How hands on learning builds confidence across diverse student populations The importance of trusting young people earlier than traditional systems allow Valuing skilled trades and alternative pathways alongside college routes Community based education as a source of belonging and opportunity Jason also shares a remarkable experience teaching drone education in a remote village on the Bering Sea in Alaska. Working with students as young as six years old, he witnessed how quickly hesitation turns into excitement when learners are given the chance to try something new. That experience directly shaped how he now approaches structure, trust, and responsibility in his programs back home. Throughout the episode, Jason challenges conventional ideas about success and education. He shares stories of students who discovered confidence through hands on programs and went on to build meaningful futures in unexpected ways. At its core, this conversation is about belief. It is about creating environments where students feel safe to explore, fail, succeed, and grow. This episode will resonate with educators, nonprofit leaders, parents, and anyone committed to helping young people realize what they are capable of becoming.

The Moment a Teacher Changes a Life | Legend Makers Podcast with Sunaina Talwar

In the first episode of 2026, Scott Buell sits down with Sunaina Talwar, former educator, instructional leader, and lifelong advocate for student confidence and purpose. Sunaina’s story is deeply personal. As a first generation student balancing two languages and two cultures, she struggled early in school. Everything changed in sixth grade when a small group of teachers took the time to truly see her. That moment shaped her belief in herself and ultimately led her into education. This conversation explores what it really means to be a legend maker. Not just teaching content, but building confidence, fostering belonging, and helping students discover who they are capable of becoming. In This Episode, You Will Learn: Why confidence often matters more than curriculum How small moments from teachers can create lifelong impact What great educators do differently when building trust with students Why purpose is essential for sustaining a career in education How hands on learning and student ownership transform classrooms The role of self care and boundaries in avoiding educator burnout Why belief must come before learning Key Themes: Student confidence and identity Purpose driven teaching Relationship centered classrooms Hands on and experiential learning Supporting the whole child Educator mindset and resilience This episode is a powerful reminder that educators change lives in ways they may never fully see. If you are a teacher, school leader, or someone who believes in the power of education to shape futures, this conversation will resonate deeply. 🎙️ Legend Makers Podcast Hosted by Scott Buell 📅 New episodes weekly 🎧 Available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. 📱DroneLegends.com Inside every child lives a legend™

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