Edutainment Learning

Edutainment Learning

by Ralph Krauss

Education Education for Kids

Season 1

J.T. Reynolds: Breaking Barriers to the National Parks

From growing up in segregated Texas to becoming a National Park superintendent, J.T. Reynolds shares a story of resilience, service, and passion for the outdoors. Born in Galveston, Texas, J.T. discovered a love for nature early—despite the limitations of the Jim Crow era. Inspired by pioneers like Jackie Robinson, his journey led him through Texas A&M University, service in the U.S. Army, and a groundbreaking career with the National Park Service. Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

Ryan Ravenelle: From Chemical Engineering to Lithium Innovation

What does it take to turn science into the technologies that power our future? In this episode of Edutainment Learning, students from around the world interview Dr. Ryan, Technical Director of the Lithium Americas Technical Center, about his journey from growing up in Carson City, Nevada to becoming a leader in chemical engineering and energy technology. Dr. Ryan earned his BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of Nevada and later completed his PhD at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he focused on catalyst design and converting biomass into fuels and chemicals. Since then, he has worked in research, development, and process engineering, helping advance technologies that support modern energy production. Today, he leads a team focused on process development, optimization, and next-generation technologies related to lithium—one of the most important materials powering batteries, electric vehicles, and the clean energy transition. Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

Trenton Miguez: Decision-Making & Careers in Intelligence

What does it take to work in Military Intelligence, where decisions must be made with incomplete information and the stakes are often incredibly high? In this episode of Edutainment Learning, students from around the world sit down with Trenton Miguez, a former U.S. Army Military Intelligence Officer who spent more than a decade operating in complex and contested environments across the Middle East supporting counterterrorism, threat reduction, de-escalation, and protection missions. During his Army career, Trenton worked at the intersection of intelligence collection, analysis, and operational decision-making, helping leaders understand threats and act effectively in uncertain situations. He later served as the lead developer for the Army’s Military Intelligence Officer Leader Course and the Information Collection Planner Course, where he designed training programs used to prepare the next generation of U.S. Army intelligence officers. Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

John Piro: From Army Medic to Public Defender

In this episode of Edutainment Learning, students connect with John, a United States Army veteran, former combat medic, and now an Assistant Public Defender and legislative advocate in Nevada who is working to make the justice system more fair and compassionate. John’s journey began on the training fields of the U.S. Army, where he served as a combat medic and later led a squad of medics as a sergeant. Those experiences taught him that true leadership is not about rank or titles—it’s about standing beside people when they need someone most. After returning home to Las Vegas, John became the first in his family to attend college. He earned his Criminal Justice degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and went on to receive his law degree from the UNLV William S. Boyd School of Law. Today, John serves as an Assistant Public Defender, representing individuals who often feel overlooked or forgotten by society. Through his work in the courtroom and in the Nevada Legislature, he has helped support some of the most significant criminal justice reforms in Nevada in decades, advocating for dignity, fairness, and second chances. He also helped launch the Clean Slate program at Boyd Law, which helps people clear their records and rebuild their lives—while teaching law students what justice looks like when it is rooted in humanity. Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

Brad Lea: Sales, Success & Building Relentless Confidence

In this powerful Edutainment Learning interview, we sit down with Brad Lea — entrepreneur, sales expert, and host of the Dropping Bombs podcast — to talk about what it really takes to win in business and in life. Brad shares his no-nonsense approach to sales, personal development, leadership, and building unshakable confidence. From overcoming setbacks to creating massive opportunity, this conversation is packed with real-world strategies and mindset shifts that can elevate your career and your impact. Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

Marc J. Brock: How to Succeed in Retail Leadership

What does it take to rise into leadership at one of the largest companies in the world? In this Edutainment Learning interview, students from around the globe sit down with Marc J. Brock, Retail Business Manager with Walmart in Las Vegas, Nevada. With over 15 years of experience in the retail industry, Marc shares how strong communication, networking, and a commitment to service helped him rise to Store Manager in 2021 and earn recognition as a Walmart Brand Ambassador in 2023. Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

Alex VanHouten: Psychology, Performance & Behavior Change

In this Edutainment Learning interview, we sit down with Coach Alex VanHouten performance coach, behavior change specialist, and lifelong learner — to explore the science behind human potential. A graduate of Vanderbilt University (2010) with a focus in chemistry and psychology, Coach Alex has since earned multiple certifications through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) in personal training, corrective exercise, performance enhancement, and behavior change. He is also a certified nutritionist and health coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN). With over 500 five-star podcast episodes published and multiple peer-reviewed articles written for the International Sport Science Association (ISSA), Coach Alex has dedicated his career to helping others optimize both mind and body. He has been a professional coach and personal trainer since 2005. Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

Dr. Robert L. Green: Working with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

What was it like to work alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement? In this powerful Edutainment Learning interview, students hear firsthand from Dr. Robert L. Green — renowned educator, scholar, and civil rights leader whose work helped shape the modern fight for educational equity in America. As a close advisor and confidant to Dr. King, Dr. Green played a pivotal role in advancing desegregation, expanding access to quality education, and advocating for justice through research, policy, and leadership. His career spans decades of service as a professor, university administrator, and president of the Southern Education Foundation — one of the nation’s oldest organizations dedicated to educational opportunity. Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

Jerome “Junkyard Dog” Williams: NBA Hustle, Leadership & Life Lessons Beyond Basketball

What does it take to succeed at the highest level in the NBA? In this powerful Edutainment Learning conversation, former NBA player Jerome “Junkyard Dog” Williams shares the mindset, discipline, and relentless work ethic that made him a fan favorite and respected leader throughout his career with the Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors, Chicago Bulls, and New York Knicks. Known for doing the hard work on the court, Jerome talks with students about perseverance, teamwork, leadership, overcoming adversity, and why character matters more than hype. He also shares insights into his philanthropic work through www.shootingforpeace.com and how giving back has become his greatest mission off the court. Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

Nicholas B. Dirks: President/CEO New York Academy of Sciences

What is the true purpose of a university? In this powerful Edutainment Learning conversation, students from around the world connect with Professor Nicholas B. Dirks, President & CEO of The New York Academy of Sciences and former Chancellor of UC Berkeley. Professor Dirks has led some of the world’s most influential academic institutions and helped launch global initiatives in data science, neuroscience, and international research collaboration. Are you an educator? Go to edutainmentlearning.com/podcasts to download student worksheets for every episode!

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