Sparking Genius

Hosted by Dwight Schools

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Since the founding of the first Dwight School in 1872, our mission to ignite the spark of genius in every child has not wavered - nor has our pioneering attitude. But as the world changes with each passing day, so does the field of education. As we look ahead to the coming years and the many ways that learning innovations can continue to be integrated into systems of education, there is so much to look forward to. On Sparking Genius, host Dianne Drew sits down with education leaders and innovative thinkers to explore what the future of education holds. We dive into the most cutting-edge topics, and hear firsthand how new strategies and fresh perspectives can inspire and enlighten students like never before. So join us as the Dwight Schools Global Network takes the next step forward in our long history of leading the way in education — all while discovering incredible advancements that will benefit the next generations of students. This is Sparking Genius.

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19 recent

June 12, 202646 min

Positive Discipline: From Early Childhood to Lifelong Learning

Discipline in early childhood is often misunderstood as punishment or control, but what if it could instead become an opportunity to build connection, emotional regulation, confidence, and lifelong skills? In this episode of Sparking Genius, host Dianne Drew is joined by Dodie Blomberg, educational consultant, certified Positive Discipline Lead Trainer, and Adler-trained coach, alongside Chris Allen, Head of Early Childhood at Dwight School New York, for a conversation about Positive Discipline, an approach grounded in both kindness and firmness that helps children feel capable, connected, and respected while learning boundaries and responsibility. They share practical tools parents and educators can use to support emotional regulation, confidence, and problem-solving skills in young children. The conversation also examines how early childhood experiences shape emotional memory, relationships, and resilience later in life. From classroom culture to parenting approaches at home, this episode offers thoughtful insights for anyone supporting young children during their most formative years. Follow Us Facebook @dwightschool Instagram @dwightschool LinkedIn @dwight-school Presented by the Dwight Schools Global Networkwww.dwight.edu Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 29, 202638 min

How School Leaders Shape Student Success

Great school leadership shapes far more than academics; it influences school culture, student confidence, and the overall sense of community. In this episode of Sparking Genius, host Dianne Drew sits down with Chris Beddows, Head of School at Dwight London, to discuss what leadership looks like in modern education. Dianne and Chris explore the importance of visibility, relationship-building, and balancing tradition with innovation, including AI, sustainability, student wellbeing, and career readiness. They also reflect on the value of global collaboration within the Dwight Schools network and how international connections create meaningful opportunities for students and educators alike. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the future of education and the leadership needed to guide it forward. Follow Us Facebook @dwightschool Instagram @dwightschool LinkedIn @dwight-school Presented by the Dwight Schools Global Networkwww.dwight.edu Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 12, 202642 min

Turning Student Curiosity Into Lifelong Passion

In a world filled with constant noise and distraction, the ability to slow down, observe, and stay curious matters more than ever. In this episode of Sparking Genius, Dianne Drew’s guest host Lesa Wang sits down with Andrew Farnsworth of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to explore how small moments of curiosity in our youngest learners can grow into a lifelong passion. From spotting a bird at five years old to leading BirdCast, a project that tracks migration using radar, machine learning, and citizen science, Andrew shares how curiosity can evolve into meaningful work. They also discuss the role of mentorship, the power of observation at an early age, and how tools like Merlin Bird ID and eBird are opening science to everyone. Listen now to explore how curiosity can shape learning and life. Follow Us Facebook @dwightschool Instagram @dwightschool LinkedIn @dwight-school Presented by the Dwight Schools Global Networkwww.dwight.edu Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 6, 202639 min

The Power of Play: Reimagining Creativity in Schools

Creative thinking is a core skill every learner needs. In this episode of Sparking Genius, guest host Lesa Wang, Dwight Head of Design and Global Spark Programs Director, speaks with two bold leaders in design and education: Paul Bennett, former Chief Creative Officer at IDEO, and Maureen Reilly, Head of Building Experience Design at LEGO Design. The conversation explores how creativity and play can be powerful drivers of learning and why they should be protected in classrooms rather than pushed to the margins.They share stories from their own creative paths, what schools can learn from Denmark’s approach to early learning, and how educators can help young people stay curious, confident, and willing to take risks. They also reflect on how AI is shifting the creative landscape and what skills will matter most going forward. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or student, this episode is full of meaningful takeaways for anyone invested in the future of learning.Follow UsFacebook @dwightschoolInstagram @dwightschoolLinkedIn @dwight-schoolPresented by the Dwight Schools Global Networkwww.dwight.edu Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 9, 202638 min

Learning Without Walls: The Decentralized Future of Education

The future of education is being shaped by a new set of possibilities, ones that extend beyond traditional classrooms and school systems. In this episode of Sparking Genius, host Dianne Drew is joined by Vriti Saraf, educator, innovator, and co-founder of Ed3 DAO, to examine how Web3 technologies are reshaping learning experiences and educational access.Vriti brings deep insight into how AI, blockchain, and decentralized platforms are creating more flexible, personalized, and equitable models of education. They explore critical topics, including learner agency, digital ownership, and how the role of teachers is evolving in an age where access to knowledge is ubiquitous but human connection remains essential.For educators, school leaders, and parents alike, this episode provides a grounded look at how Web3 and AI are not just changing tools but transforming the purpose and process of education itself.Follow UsFacebook @dwightschoolInstagram @dwightschoolLinkedIn @dwight-schoolPresented by the Dwight Schools Global Networkwww.dwight.edu Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

July 7, 202545 min

Scroll Smart: Tackling Tech’s Impact on Students

Technology is everywhere and for today’s students, it can be both a tool and a trap. In this episode of Sparking Genius, host Dianne Drew is joined by Robbie Torney of Common Sense Media and Ron Posner of Dwight School New York for a practical conversation on helping kids build healthier digital habits. They unpack digital citizenship, the risks of AI companions, and how schools and families can team up to set smarter screen-time boundaries. From classroom strategies to parenting tips, this episode offers real-world advice for navigating the digital age with intention.Follow UsFacebook @dwightschoolInstagram @dwightschoolLinkedIn @dwight-schoolPresented by the Dwight Schools Global Networkwww.dwight.edu Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 27, 202531 min

Character, Competition, and the Classroom: The Role of Athletics in Education

Student-athletes face a unique challenge: maintaining high academic standards while committing to rigorous athletic schedules. In this episode of Sparking Genius, host Dianne Drew sits down with John Pelin, Head of Athletics at Dwight School New York, and Kathryn McMahan, an 11th-grade student who competes on three varsity teams: soccer, swimming, and softball. They talk about what it takes to balance sports and school life, the challenges student-athletes face, and what kind of support really makes a difference. You’ll hear about time management, motivation, dealing with pressure, and the impact sports can have on leadership and mental health.This conversation gives a real look into how athletics shape students—not just on the field, but in how they show up in class, with their peers, and in the bigger picture of their education.Follow UsFacebook @dwightschoolInstagram @dwightschoolLinkedIn @dwight-schoolPresented by the Dwight Schools Global Networkwww.dwight.edu Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 29, 202542 min

Accepted or Rejected? The Truth About College Admissions

College admissions continue to evolve in response to societal shifts, technological advancements, and changing student expectations. In this episode of Sparking Genius, host Dianne Drew speaks with two experts shaping the admissions experience on both sides: Katie Korhonen, Director of Global Admissions, Evaluation, and Strategy at NYU, and Shellee Hendricks, Dwight’s Global Director of College Counseling. They break down what’s actually happening in the college application world—test-optional policies, access to international opportunities, ethical concerns, and the impact of AI. They also get real about how guidance counseling has evolved, and what parents should (and shouldn’t) be doing to support their kids through this journey. From how NYU is rethinking outreach, to what students can do now to stand out, this episode offers sharp, honest insight into the current admissions climate. Whether you're a parent, educator, or future applicant, there's a lot to take away from this conversation.Follow UsFacebook @dwightschoolInstagram @dwightschoolLinkedIn @dwight-schoolPresented by the Dwight Schools Global Networkwww.dwight.edu Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 1, 202542 min

Beyond the Lesson Plan: Mastering the Classroom

Great teaching goes far beyond textbooks and tests—it’s about connection, adaptability, and lifelong impact. In this episode of Sparking Genius, host Dianne Drew sits down with Zach Shapiro, a dedicated math teacher from Dwight New York, and Javier Sanchez, an inspiring language arts teacher from Dwight London, to explore what it truly means to be an effective educator.Zach and Javier, the inaugural recipients of the Torchbearer Award, share their experiences on building meaningful relationships with students, mentoring the next generation of teachers, and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of education. They discuss the importance of engagement, differentiation, and embracing technology—including AI—to enhance learning.If you're an educator, parent, or aspiring teacher, this conversation is packed with valuable insights on fostering student success and creating dynamic, inclusive classrooms.Follow UsFacebook @dwightschoolInstagram @dwightschoolLinkedIn @dwight-schoolPresented by the Dwight Schools Global Networkwww.dwight.edu Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

January 27, 202548 min

The Power of Systems Thinking in Education

The ability to think critically and connect dots across disciplines has never been more vital. In this episode of Sparking Genius, host Dianne Drew sits down with Lee Howell, Executive Director of the Villars Institute, to unpack how systems thinking and intergenerational collaboration are transforming education. From exploring real-world examples to understanding the critical role of interdisciplinary learning, this episode is filled with actionable insights for educators, school leaders, and lifelong learners. Lee shares how schools can empower students to tackle global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss while fostering a sense of agency and leadership in young learners. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s world.Follow UsFacebook @dwightschoolInstagram @dwightschoolLinkedIn @dwight-schoolPresented by the Dwight Schools Global Networkwww.dwight.edu Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.