Edvolution Podcast

We’re kicking off the new year with inspiration and practical ideas for building sustainable service learning systems in schools! In this episode, we’re joined by Crystal Pottebaum, Service Learning and Sustainability Coordinator at the International School of Debrecen, Hungary. Crystal shares her journey from classroom teacher to K–12 coordinator and reflects on what it really takes to design programs that last. Together, we explore: Why human connection is essential in education today How to move from mission statements to meaningful action Building service learning systems that don’t rely on one person Creating buy-in, celebrating small wins, and sustaining change over time The joy found in real-world learning from community partnerships to school gardens. This conversation is especially valuable for educators and leaders who are starting the year ready to rethink service learning, sustainability, and how schools can live their values through purposeful programming. Check out Crystal’s Padlet for building service learning programs here and her children's books below: Laney's Little Lamb - Amazon or USA-based distribution. Pass it to Rizwana (Amazon) As always, we’d love to hear from more educators doing meaningful work. If you have experiences to share, reach out and join the conversation!

In this episode, Laurence interviews Sandy and Mel about how edible education can transform learning. We unpack why it’s more powerful than food tech, how to build meaningful programs in real schools, and how food-based learning enhances rigor, even in AP and high school courses! Perfect for educators, school leaders, and anyone curious about sustainability, real-world learning, and reconnecting students with the natural world. Check out the Center for Ecoliteracy and their guide for getting started with a school garden!

In this episode of the Edvolution Podcast, we dive into the world of ethical global service learning with Kimberly Haley Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware. With more than 25 years in the field, Kimberly shares how community-driven partnerships, ethical frameworks, and deep cultural engagement create meaningful experiences for both volunteers and host communities. We unpack the myths of “voluntourism,” discuss the importance of community-led project design, and explore what schools must consider when sending students abroad. Kimberly also shares powerful examples from Globe Aware’s programs in places like Guatemala, Cambodia, Costa Rica, and Ghana — and reflects on the joy, learning, and transformation that come from serving alongside local partners. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, parent, or student travel coordinator, this episode offers a grounded, ethical perspective on what responsible global service should look like. Learn more about Globe Aware here!

This week we’re chatting with Tristan Reynolds, educator, writer, and Dean of Academics at VIS@betterworld lab in Taipei. We dive into what it means to build a school as a prototype, connect global citizenship to authentic community learning, and create student-centered systems for both project-based learning and AI use. Take a look at the fantastic resources Tristan has to share: Project Based Learning Study  Tristan's Chapter on AI in Schools  Global Schools Program Institute for Humane Education PennGSE PBL for Global Climate Justice Knowles Teacher Initiative VIS Website Tristan's Website

In this episode, we dive into the many ways educators continue to grow both inside and outside the classroom. From Sandy’s unique journey to Italy for a Honey Sommelier certification to Mel’s deep dive into coaching and professional learning, and Laurence’s work with schools around the world, this conversation is all about how authentic learning experiences keep us curious, connected, and inspired. We explore how personal passions can spark new ideas for teaching and how schools can reimagine professional development as something meaningful, not mandatory. Learn more about the work that we do and how we can support educators by checking out our website here!

Service learning experiences can be deeply meaningful for both students and teachers, but when they’re not thoughtfully planned, they can also lead to unintended consequences. In this episode, we dive into the behind-the-scenes of those big “Week Without Walls” trips and other school-led service projects. Together, we reflect on how schools can design service learning programs that foster meaningful connections, responsible action, and real learning for everyone involved. Check out the Complete Guide to Service Learning by our friend Cathy Berger Kaye for an A-Z guide to help you get started, review, or refine your service learning approaches. If you already have it, keep an eye out for the 3rd edition coming out soon!  

In this episode, we dig into why so many schools struggle to truly embrace sustainability and what it takes to move beyond surface-level efforts. We explore: Why schools often see themselves as separate from “real life,” avoiding their ethical responsibility to lead by example. How traditional school structures, teacher practices, and admin mindsets can unintentionally block curiosity and authentic learning. The missed opportunity when schools fail to train and model sustainability for teachers, staff, parents, and students alike. But it’s not all challenges! We highlight schools that do great things and share some resources that we hope will be helpful: Education in Motion ESG Report Chinese International School Carbon Report Edvolution's Zero-Waste Classroom Guide  We would love to learn more about any other great examples out there. Get in touch with us at edvolution.services@gmail.com.

In this conversation, we sit down with the fabulous LeeAnne Lavender, a global citizenship and community engagement consultant who brings a passion for storytelling to every project. Together, we unpack some of the common challenges schools face when building service learning programs and explore strategies for creating strong, lasting community partnerships. We also discuss how storytelling can be a powerful tool to kick off the school year, helping educators set the tone, inspire students, and connect purpose with action. Learn more about LeeAnne and how she supports educators here!  Check out her new course, Authentic Global Citizenship & Community Engagement here.  

We’re kicking off Season 2 by sharing how we approach the start of a new school year with purpose and energy. From finding the right thought partners to spark collaboration, to identifying “low-hanging fruit” that builds early wins, we dive into practical ways to set yourself up for success with connection and purpose. Connect with us! LinkedIn Edvolving Education Newsletter

In our final episode of Season 1, we take a step back to talk about something essential: the need to disconnect, reflect, and recharge. As the pace and pressure of the school year ease up, we explore why rest isn’t just important—it’s a genuine act of sustainability in education. We’re joined by Noan Fesnoux, an innovative educational leader with a fresh perspective on what schools and educators really need to thrive. Tune in to celebrate the close of our first season and be inspired to pause with purpose. We’ll be back with Season 2 in September—with more conversations, guests, and ideas to transform education. Want to stay connected over the break? Subscribe to our newsletter here for resources, updates, and inspiration between seasons. 🔗 Explore more at Edvolution.Services and email us anytime at edvolution.services@gmail.com!

In this episode, we explore how community partnerships can transform the way schools and students connect with the real world. We share our favorite examples of strong partnerships, discuss why they matter, and unpack strategies for organizing partnerships that are both meaningful and sustainable. From collaborating with local businesses and NGOs to working with parent groups, we dive into successful models that create authentic, impactful learning experiences for students. We also highlight a fantastic course developed by friends of ours that can help anyone dive deeper into the process of building effective partnerships. Tune in to learn how to make your community an integral part of your school’s learning journey—and check out the course we recommend for even more guidance. Resources mentioned: Reciprocal Community Partnerships by LeeAnne Lavender and Shei Ascencio 🔗 Explore more at Edvolution.Services and email us anytime at edvolution.services@gmail.com!

What happens when learning moves beyond the walls of a classroom? In this episode, we dive into the world of experiential education with special guest Matt Farr, director of Mountain Quests—an organization that takes students on meaningful, community-connected adventures across the globe. Together, we explore: ✅ How experiential learning fosters transformative student growth ✅ The power of connecting students to international communities and cultures ✅ What it means to travel and learn with sustainability in mind Matt shares powerful insights and stories from the field, reminding us that real-world learning doesn’t just teach—it transforms. Tune in to discover how intentional experiences can help students grow into globally aware, compassionate changemakers. Resources mentioned: Site Sustainability Checklist Mountain Quests 🔗 Explore more at Edvolution.Services and email us anytime at edvolution.services@gmail.com! #EdvolutionPodcast #ExperientialLearning #GlobalCitizenship #RealWorldEducation #SustainableTravel #EducationForImpact

In this episode, we explore what sustainability in schools really looks like and how it continues evolving. We share real examples—from campus-wide initiatives and sustainable facilities planning to edible education through gardens, kitchens, and student-run food projects. We also discuss how data can drive impactful decisions, bridging classroom learning with school operations. Tune in to discover practical ways to embed sustainability into your school’s systems, curriculum, and culture. Resources mentioned: Chef Ann Foundation Edible Schoolyard Life Lab 🔗 Explore more at Edvolution.Services and email us anytime at edvolution.services@gmail.com!

What does it really look like when students lead the way? In this episode, we’re exploring powerful examples of student action across grade levels—from elementary changemakers to high school advocates—showing how young people can create real impact both in and beyond the classroom. We’ll share stories of students tackling issues they care about and how schools can create the conditions for meaningful, student-led change. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your program further, this episode is packed with ideas, inspiration, and practical ways to empower your students to take action in their own communities. Download our student impact checklist here! And learn about our friend d'Arcy Lunn and Teaspoons of Change here. Check us out at Edvolution Services and email us at edvolution.services@gmail.com.

The world is changing fast, and education needs to keep up. In this episode, we’re diving into why service learning, sustainability, global citizenship, and edible education are more critical than ever—for students, schools, and communities. Check out the sustainability compass we discuss and learn more about Compass Education here: https://compasseducation.org/the-compass-education-toolkit/ Email us at edvolution.services@gmail.com or check out our website at edvolution.services!

Ever wondered how educators find their way into service learning, sustainability, and edible education? In this special bonus episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on our own career paths—sharing the twists, turns, and lessons that led us here. If you're curious about careers in this field or just want to get to know us better, this episode is for you! Tune in for personal stories, insights, and a deeper look at what drives our passion for education that makes a difference.