Raising Innovators
This is your dedicated space for parents, grandparents, and caregivers navigating the joys—and yes, the challenges—of raising young children. We believe every child is born an innovator. They’re naturally creative, full of curiosity, unafraid of failure, and natural communicators. But how do we nurture these incredible traits as they grow? That’s what we’ll explore together. Through thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and relatable stories, our episodes are designed to help you unlock your child’s full potential. We’ll give you practical tools to preserve the magic of those early years while preparing them for a fast-changing world. Parenting is an adventure filled with twists, turns, and triumphs—and you don’t have to go through it alone. Join us, and together, we’ll celebrate the future innovators in your life. Tune in now and discover how to keep their spark alive!
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Smart Door-Slam Safety with Moshun (Protecting Little Fingers)
12/11/2025
Smart Door-Slam Safety with Moshun (Protecting Little Fingers)
Door slams are not “little accidents.” Each year, an estimated 300,000 children visit the ER due to door-related injuries. In this episode of Raising Innovators, host Marnie Forestieri talks with Tim Boundy, Co-Founder & CEO of Moshun, about a smart, mechanical way to stop slams without permanently closing a door. Why this matters (for schools & families) Classrooms and childcare centers need safety that works with real life—open when it’s calm, protective when it’s not. Moshun’s device uses non-Newtonian fluid to let a door close normally at slow speed and instantly resist if slammed by wind or force. It’s simple, retrofit-friendly, and built to safeguard tiny fingers. What you’ll learn The origin story: a windy vacation that sparked an invention How rheology (fluid science) powers a “smart” mechanical closer Practical installs for schools now, and home versions coming Future innovations: hidden hinges, sliding doors, movable walls Pro tip for directors: show proactive safety on every school tour Now on YouTube — watch now. If this episode helped you, subscribe, share it with another parent or school leader, and follow for weekly future-ready practices.
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Hands-On Learning & Healthy Tech: Raising Future-Ready Kids with Illumine | Lenita Flores
12/09/2025
Hands-On Learning & Healthy Tech: Raising Future-Ready Kids with Illumine | Lenita Flores
Early childhood is changing fast — and so is the world our children are growing up in. 🌎✨ In this episode of Raising Innovators, Marnie Forestieri sits down with Lenita Flores, Director of School Success at Illumine, to explore what it truly means to prepare young children for the future. From hands-on learning and child development milestones to AI-powered tools that support teachers, this conversation uncovers how to balance play-based learning, leadership, and healthy technology in early education. If you're a parent, school owner, director, or early-childhood educator, this episode will challenge old assumptions, answer big questions, and offer practical insights you can use today. 🌱 What You’ll Learn Why early learners must move, explore, and play — not sit still The biggest mistake parents make with developmental milestones How hands-on experience shaped Lenita’s leadership as a school director How Illumine uses AI and multilingual tools to support teachers and families Why technology should be an active tool, not passive screen time How to prepare children for the world of tomorrow, not the past Website: https://marnieforestieri.com Facebook: /marnieforestieri LinkedIn: /marnie-forestieri Instagram: /marnie_forestieri 🎙️ Guest — Lenita Flores (Illumine) Email: lenita@myillumine.com Website: https://illumine.app 🏫 Young Innovators Schools Website: https://yiaschools.com Facebook: /younginnovatorsSchools Instagram: /younginnovatorsSchools YouTube: /younginnovatorsSchools 🎧 Raising Innovators Podcast 💡 Helping parents raise resilient, confident, future-ready kids.
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The "Steady Beat" Hack: 5-Minute Games to Boost Focus & Math With Dr. Debby Mitchell
11/11/2025
The "Steady Beat" Hack: 5-Minute Games to Boost Focus & Math With Dr. Debby Mitchell
What if a simple clapping game could make your child better at math and reading? 💡 In this super hands-on workshop episode of Raising Innovators, Marnie Forestieri sits down with kinesthetic learning specialist and author, Dr. Debby Mitchell, to unpack the power of "Steady Beat." Discover the powerful, research-backed correlation between a child's ability to keep a simple beat and their future academic success. This isn't just about music—it's a foundational brain-building skill that starts in the womb and enhances everything from problem-solving to emotional regulation. Learn how to use everyday household items to: ✨ Build the foundational brain pathways for math and literacy 🧠 Send direct signals to your child's brain to improve focus (especially for short attention spans) 👏 Use simple tools like paper plates, bean bags, and cups as brain-boosters 🧘 Teach patience, social skills, and even leadership through fun "copy me" games Whether your child is a toddler or in first grade, this episode provides practical, fun, and free activities to build a smarter, more focused brain. 🔖 EPISODE MENU (CHAPTERS) 0:00 Intro: The research behind movement, music, and academic achievement 0:45 Welcoming "Steady Beat" expert Dr. Debby Mitchell 1:24 What is "Steady Beat"? (It's not just rhythm) 1:32 The "Steady Beat" is your heartbeat, your breathing, and windshield wipers 2:00 Why Dr. Mitchell built her dissertation on Steady Beat 2:30 The proven correlation: Steady Beat, Math, and Reading success in first-graders 2:54 When does Steady Beat start? (Spoiler: In the womb) 3:05 How to build Steady Beat in infants (rocking, patting, etc.) 4:05 Why are some people "off-beat"? (The 'Aerobics Class' problem) 4:20 It’s not natural ability, it’s a "foundational skill" that was missed 4:50 HANDS-ON WORKSHOP: Let's Do It! 4:55 Demo 1: Why we use paper plates (They make noise!) 5:10 Steady Beat vs. Rhythm (Irregular Beat) Explained 5:25 Game 1: "Copy Me" with different speeds 6:10 Why noise (like a paper bag) "sends a signal to the brain" 6:25 When to start these games with your toddler 7:00 How to add counting to build math skills 7:15 Demo 2: Using DIY Rhythm Sticks (from paper bags) 8:20 The 3 Main Benefits: Mathematical patterns, repetition, and problem-solving 8:42 The hidden benefit: Teaching children "to wait" 8:50 How this builds social skills and language development 9:20 Demo 3: Using Bean Bags (for short attention spans) 9:50 Demo 4: Using Steady Beat to teach body parts 10:35 Demo 5: Using cups for different sounds 11:30 Why you MUST let your child be the leader 12:20 When is a child ready for rhythm? (Hint: After age 4) 13:00 How to use nursery rhymes ("Twinkle Twinkle") to teach beat 13:30 The power of being a "mindful and immersive" parent 14:30 Are some kids just "natural" drummers? 15:10 Why musically-inclined children often excel in math 16:00 "I'm good at math, but bad at aerobics!" Why? 16:15 The difference between fine motor, gross motor, and movement experience 18:00 How many minutes a day? (Dr. Mitchell's #1 Rule) 18:15 "I always stop when they're having fun." 19:45 Dr. Mitchell's final advice: "Be creative" and "Make it a family affair" 20:20 Final thoughts & How to support the podcast 👩💻 Hosted by Marnie Forestieri Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/ Facebook: /marnieforestieri LinkedIn: /marnie-forestieri Instagram: /marnie_forestieri 🎙️ Guest: Dr. Debby Mitchell (Puedes agregar aquí los links de la Dra. Mitchell si los tienes) 🏫 Connect with Young Innovators Schools Website: https://yiaschools.com Facebook: /younginnovatorsSchools Instagram: /younginnovatorsSchools YouTube: /younginnovatorsSchools 🎧 Raising Innovators Podcast 💡 Helping parents raise resilient, confident, future-ready kids.
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Inside the Montessori Mindset | Tim Seldin & Marnie on Raising Confident, Independent Kids
11/06/2025
Inside the Montessori Mindset | Tim Seldin & Marnie on Raising Confident, Independent Kids
What if education wasn’t about control but confidence, independence, and joy? 💡 In this powerful episode of Raising Innovators, Marnie Forestieri sits down with Tim Seldin, author, consultant, and President of the Montessori Society, to unpack the timeless wisdom of the Montessori philosophy. Discover how this 120-year-old approach continues to shape today’s most creative, compassionate, and independent thinkers from classrooms to boardrooms around the world. 🌍 Learn how Montessori education empowers children to: ✨ Develop self-motivation and focus through hands-on learning 🌱 Build independence and confidence from a young age 💬 Cultivate respect, empathy, and problem-solving 🏫 Thrive without rigid tests or grades Whether you’re an educator, parent, or simply curious about how children learn best, this episode will transform the way you see education and parenting. 👩💻 Hosted by Marnie Forestieri Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/ Facebook: /marnieforestieri LinkedIn: /marnie-forestieri Instagram: /marnie_forestieri 🎙️ Guest: Tim Seldin Instagram: @imseldin Facebook: @tim.seldin 🏫 Connect with Young Innovators Schools Website: https://yiaschools.com Facebook: /younginnovatorsSchools Instagram: /younginnovatorsSchools YouTube: /younginnovatorsSchools 🎧 Raising Innovators Podcast 💡 Helping parents raise resilient, confident, future-ready kids.
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The Future-Ready Parent Mindset | How to Raise Confident Kids in an Uncertain World
11/06/2025
The Future-Ready Parent Mindset | How to Raise Confident Kids in an Uncertain World
Parenting in the age of uncertainty can feel overwhelming. 🌎 We’re raising kids in a world that changes faster than we can keep up new technologies, new expectations, new fears. In this episode of Raising Innovators, Marnie Forestieri unpacks the Future-Ready Parent Mindset: how to replace control with curiosity, fear with adaptability, and anxiety with confidence. Learn how to model lifelong learning, emotional flexibility, and calm curiosity the real skills our children need to thrive in an unpredictable world. 💫 ✨ Key takeaway: A future-ready parent doesn’t have all the answers they model the courage to keep learning. Your calm curiosity is your child’s greatest stability. 👩💻 Hosted by Marnie Forestieri Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/ Facebook: /marnieforestieri LinkedIn: /marnie-forestieri Instagram: /marnie_forestieri Connect with Young Innovators Schools Website: https://yiaschools.com Facebook: /younginnovatorsSchools Instagram: /younginnovatorsSchools YouTube: /younginnovatorsSchools 🎧 Raising Innovators Podcast 💡 Helping parents raise resilient, confident, future-ready kids. #FutureReadyParent #RaisingInnovators #ParentingMindset #MarnieForestieri #ParentingInUncertainty
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The Movement Chart: A Doctor’s Play-Based Method to Boost Your Child’s Brain
10/25/2025
The Movement Chart: A Doctor’s Play-Based Method to Boost Your Child’s Brain
Are you worried your child can’t focus or spends too much time on screens? 🧠 Discover how movement and play can build your child’s brain connections and focus. Join Dr. Debby Mitchell and Marnie Forestieri as they reveal The Movement Chart — a simple framework to boost learning through play. Why this matters Future-ready abilities focus, problem-solving, and pre-writing don’t start at a desk; they start on the floor. When kids connect words like high/low and fast/slow to physical actions, they lay the neural groundwork for abstract thinking and literacy. What you’ll get (busy-parent benefits) A simple Movement Chart to guide playful learning at home Screen-free activities using items you already have The clear bridge from gross motor to fine motor and pre-writing A fun weekly family challenge to get everyone moving and learning Try these 3 movement games this week Body Tag (Simon Says): “Touch head, shoulders, knees…” Naming parts builds body awareness + vocabulary. Shape Challenge with a Scarf: Draw big circles, squares, zigzags in the air gross motor that supports pre-writing. Bean-Bag Balance: Balance on head/shoulder/hand while walking focus + control in one playful drill. Weekly Challenge: Choose one Movement Chart concept (e.g., fast/slow or high/low) and say it out loud while your child moves. Watch how language + action link in real time. Connect with Dr. Debby Mitchell (Guest) YouTube: /@drdebbygeo Facebook: /drdebbygeo X: https://x.com/DrDebbyGeo Pinterest: /drdebbygeo Connect with Marnie Forestieri (Host) Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/ Facebook: /marnieforestieri LinkedIn: /marnie-forestieri Instagram: /marnie_forestieri Connect with Young Innovators Schools Website: https://www.younginnovatorsSchools.com/ Facebook: /younginnovatorsSchools Instagram: /younginnovatorsSchools YouTube: /younginnovatorsSchools 💬 Comment “MOVE” if you’ll try one of these games this week! 👇 Subscribe for weekly Future-Ready Parenting episodes. #childdevelopment #playbasedlearning #raisinginnovators
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The Future-Ready Family: Turn Everyday Moments into Innovation Labs
10/14/2025
The Future-Ready Family: Turn Everyday Moments into Innovation Labs
Busy between work, school, and chores? You don’t need extra hours or complicated projects to raise creative, confident kids. In this episode of Raising Innovators, Marnie Forestieri shows you how to transform routines you already have—meals, chores, and bedtime—into “mini innovation labs” that build real-world skills in minutes a day. Why this matters Future-ready skills—creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, adaptability—don’t only grow in classrooms. They grow in the in-between moments at home. When kids connect learning to daily life, they see innovation as something they can practice and live, every single day. What you’ll gain (benefits for busy parents) A simple “no-extra-time” framework to spark creativity at home Three repeatable family rituals that build confidence and teamwork Conversation starters that reduce screens and increase curiosity A weekly challenge to make change doable (and fun) Research-backed perspective (authority in plain English) Predictable family routines are consistently linked with better self-regulation and social-emotional growth. Open-ended questions (“What if…?”) strengthen divergent thinking and flexible problem-solving. Storytelling at bedtime boosts language development, narrative skills, and empathy. In short: small, consistent habits > occasional big activities. Episode Menu (Timestamps) 00:00 — The surprising solution: you don’t need more time 00:19 — The real parent problem: the time squeeze 00:33 — The core idea: turn routines into mini innovation labs 00:59 — Everyday examples that become learning opportunities 01:47 — Ritual #1: Family table question games 02:12 — Ritual #2: Chore team-up challenges 02:33 — Ritual #3: Bedtime story flips 03:06 — Key message: transform, don’t add 03:20 — Weekly challenge: pick one routine and add a playful twist Try these 3 micro-rituals this week Table Question Game: One creative question at dinner (“If our house could fly, where would we go first?”). Builds imagination + psychological safety to share ideas. Chore Team-Ups: Pair people and gamify (“clean-up crew vs. the clock”). Trains collaboration, roles, and accountability. Bedtime Story Flip: Your child invents a short story with a simple prompt (“What happens if the moon turns green?”). Grows language, confidence, and creativity. Your weekly challenge: Pick one routine and add a playful twist. Watch confidence and curiosity grow. Connect with Marnie Forestieri (Host) Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/ Instagram: /raising.innovators LinkedIn: /marnie-forestieri Connect with Young Innovators Academy Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/ Instagram: /younginnovatorsacademy Facebook: /younginnovatorsacademy YouTube: /younginnovatorsacademy If this helped your family, hit Subscribe, share it with another parent, and follow us on all platforms for weekly future-ready rituals. 🚀 SEO Tags / Etiquetas (para YouTube) future ready kids, innovation at home, creativity for kids, family routines, parenting tips, raising innovators podcast, young innovators academy, dinner questions for kids, bedtime storytelling, chores teamwork, problem solving for kids, parent hacks, STEAM at home, early childhood learning, social emotional skills, curiosity activities, confidence building for kids, practical parenting, Marnie Forestieri, everyday learning, no extra time parenting, mini innovation labs, family rituals, communication with kids, creativity questions
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3 Digital Parenting Strategies That Work
10/13/2025
3 Digital Parenting Strategies That Work
😱 How do we find the right balance between technology and parenting? A mother asked the one question we ALL have. We want our kids to be ready for a digital future, but we worry about too much screen time. Is more tech the answer? In this episode, Marnie Forestieri reveals why preparing kids for the future DOESN'T mean more hours on a tablet. The key is to turn them into CREATORS, not passive consumers. Discover 3 practical strategies you can apply THIS WEEK to: 🧠 Use technology as a creative tool, not just a toy. 🧩 Foster "unplugged" problem-solving to build the foundations of critical thinking. 💡 Spark "curiosity conversations" that awaken their ingenuity and teach them to wonder how the world works. 🔔 If this episode was helpful, please SHARE it with another parent navigating these questions! And don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a strategy. Let us know in the comments: Which of the 3 ideas will you try first? Digital Parenting, Digital Balance, Screen Time, Digital Natives, Creators vs Consumers, Digital Literacy, Future-Ready Kids, Problem Solving, Critical Thinking, Kids Creativity, Parenting, Fatherhood, Parenting tips, Marnie Forestieri, Raising Innovators, Kids and Technology, Responsible tech use, Educational toys, Screen-free activities, Empathy in children
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Screen Time vs. Storytelling: Which TRULY Builds Your Child's Brain?
09/29/2025
Screen Time vs. Storytelling: Which TRULY Builds Your Child's Brain?
Are you wrestling with the screen time dilemma? You're not alone! So many parents wonder if educational apps or YouTube videos are better than a simple, made-up story. In this episode, we're diving deep into the science behind what truly ignites a child's brain. You'll discover why five minutes of storytelling can be more powerful than an hour of passive screen time and learn simple, fun games to unlock your child's creativity and problem-solving skills. Let's build those innovative minds together! ✨ Keypoints (Timestamps) 0:32 - A Parent's Question: YouTube vs. Silly Stories, What's Best? 1:05 - The Brain on Screens: What's Really Happening? 1:28 - The Brain on Stories: Activating Imagination, Empathy, and More! 2:38 - 3 Powerful Storytelling Games to Boost Brain Power in Minutes! 2:50 - Game 1: The "Once Upon a Time" Starter 3:10 - Game 2: The Creative "Object Game" 3:25 - Game 3: The Hilarious "Switch-the-Hero" Twist 3:52 - A Challenge for Your Family This Week! About Raising Innovators: The Raising Innovators podcast, hosted by Marnie Forestieri, is dedicated to helping parents and educators equip children with the skills, attitudes, and values they need to succeed in the 21st century. Connect with Marnie Forestieri (Host): Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raising.innovators LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/ Connect with Young Innovators Academy: Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy
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Autism Diagnosis? How Early Intervention Can Change Your Child's Future | ABA Alliance
09/16/2025
Autism Diagnosis? How Early Intervention Can Change Your Child's Future | ABA Alliance
Feeling overwhelmed after an autism diagnosis or concerned about your child's development? You are not alone! In this powerful episode, we sit down with the incredible team from ABA Alliance to demystify early intervention and share some truly exciting news. We're diving deep into what ABA therapy really is, the crucial first steps for parents, and how a family-centered approach creates amazing success stories. Get ready to feel empowered, hopeful, and inspired by a mission to change lives! ✨ KEYPOINTS ✨ 0:00 - Welcome to Raising Innovators! 0:24 - Meet the Experts from ABA Alliance 1:02 - What is the mission of the ABA Alliance? 1:40 - A Parent's Journey: The First Steps in Early Intervention 3:20 - The "ABA 101" Program for Newly Diagnosed Families 4:30 - The Life-Changing Benefits of Starting Therapy Early 7:10 - The Power of a Family "Alliance" in Therapy 7:40 - What is ABA Therapy? A Play-Based Approach to Success 9:10 - Supporting the Parents: The Critical Role of Mental Health 10:50 - Practical Parent Training for Real-World Challenges 12:45 - Other Essential Services: Integrating Speech Therapy 13:30 - Why Are More Children Needing Support Today? 15:30 - The Ultimate Goal: Helping Your Child Thrive Independently 18:00 - Early Signs & Developmental Markers to Watch For 20:55 - HUGE NEWS: Introducing the "Alliance for Autism" Non-Profit! 22:00 - Final Thoughts & How to Connect 🎙️ Today’s Special Guests We are excited to welcome two incredible advocates, Rocky Tarantello and Monica Quinones, who are the driving force behind the newly launched Alliance for Autism. As the nonprofit wing of ABA Alliance Therapy, their mission is to ensure every child gets the support they deserve. ❤️ About Alliance for Autism Alliance for Autism is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to help low-income families with children on the autism spectrum gain access to the therapy services they need. They believe early intervention is key and are committed to delivering high-quality, child-first behavioral therapy in a compassionate and supportive environment. A full 100% of donations go directly to funding therapy services for families in need. About Raising Innovators: The Raising Innovators podcast, hosted by Marnie Forestieri, is dedicated to helping parents and educators equip children with the skills, attitudes, and values they need to succeed in the 21st century. Connect with Marnie Forestieri (Host): Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Connect with Young Innovators Academy: Website: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube:
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Stop Stressing About Quality Time! Do THIS Instead
09/15/2025
Stop Stressing About Quality Time! Do THIS Instead
Feeling like you're constantly running on empty and missing out on quality time with your kids? You're not alone! In this episode, Marnie Forestieri reveals why you can STOP stressing about grand gestures and discover three incredibly simple, powerful ways to spark deep connection and curiosity with your children in the small moments you already have. Get ready for practical hacks you can start using today! This Week's Family Spark Challenge! About Raising Innovators: The Raising Innovators podcast, hosted by Marnie Forestieri, is dedicated to helping parents and educators equip children with the skills, attitudes, and values they need to succeed in the 21st century. Connect with Marnie Forestieri (Host): Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raising.innovators LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/ Connect with Young Innovators Academy: Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy
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How to Build Emotional Resilience in Your Child | 3 Practical Parenting Tips
09/11/2025
How to Build Emotional Resilience in Your Child | 3 Practical Parenting Tips
Feeling stressed when your child has a meltdown over a small setback? You're not alone! In this episode, Marnie shares three simple but powerful strategies to help your child develop emotional resilience—the crucial skill they need to bounce back from challenges, manage stress, and thrive. Let's turn those tough moments into powerful teaching moments! About Raising Innovators: The Raising Innovators podcast, hosted by Marnie Forestieri, is dedicated to helping parents and educators equip children with the skills, attitudes, and values they need to succeed in the 21st century. Connect with Marnie Forestieri (Host): Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Connect with Young Innovators Academy: Website: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube:
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3 Dinner Questions for Raising a Brilliant Child
09/10/2025
3 Dinner Questions for Raising a Brilliant Child
Unlock Your Child's Potential with 3 Simple Dinnertime Questions | Raising Innovators Are your family dinners filled with one-word answers? What if you could turn that short, disconnected time into a powerhouse for developing your child's innovative mindset? In this episode of Raising Innovators, Marnie Forestieri shares three simple yet powerful questions you can ask at the dinner table to go beyond "How was school today?". Learn how to transform any meal into an "innovation lab" at home, sparking the curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills your child needs to thrive in a changing world. Stop focusing only on the food and start feeding their minds! Tune in to discover how these conversation starters can help you nurture a future-ready innovator, one meal at a time. About Raising Innovators: The Raising Innovators podcast is dedicated to helping parents and educators equip children with the skills, attitudes, and values they need to succeed in the 21st century. Hosted by Marnie Forestieri, CEO of Young Innovators Academy. Connect with Marnie Forestieri: Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marnieforestieri/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raising.innovators Connect with Young Innovators Academy: Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy #RaisingInnovators #ParentingTips #EarlyEducation #FutureReadyKids #CriticalThinking #FamilyDinner #InnovationForKids #ChildDevelopment
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Shaping the Future: Dr. Karen Davidowitz Corbin on Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Young Innovators
08/21/2025
Shaping the Future: Dr. Karen Davidowitz Corbin on Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Young Innovators
Curiosity made her feel different. Now it’s the reason she’s making a difference. Dr. Karen Davidowitz Corbin didn’t grow up knowing scientists. She grew up in Puerto Rico watching Wonder Woman reruns, playing with a toy microscope, and asking questions no one around her could answer. That curiosity led her into nutrition research and eventually to founding Geeks That Speak, helping kids and scientists find their voice. In this episode, she shares how parents, teachers, and even failure shaped her journey and how one small moment can spark a child’s future. Swap fear for curiosity and help your kids dream bigger. Tune into the full episode: ▶ ️ Shaping the Future: Dr. Karen Davidowitz Corbin on Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Young Innovators. Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Dr. Karen Davidowitz Corbin is the founder of Geeks That Speak®, an organization inspiring the scientific community to share their work with clarity and impact—and encouraging young girls to pursue careers in STEM. Growing up in Puerto Rico with a deep love for science, she turned her passion into a career in clinical-translational research. Now a researcher at AdventHealth, Karen blends her expertise in human nutrition, metabolism, and metabolic diseases with the art of storytelling—empowering others to communicate discoveries that can change lives. Connect with Dr. Karen Davidowitz Corbin: Website: Facebook: Instagram: LinkedIn: Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram:
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First Bells & Big Feelings: Young Innovators Share Their First School Memories
08/12/2025
First Bells & Big Feelings: Young Innovators Share Their First School Memories
The first school bell signals more than a new day. It sparks excitement, discovery, and the first steps of a child’s learning adventure. In this episode, Lucas Wilson and Emma Wilson, graduates of Young Innovators Academy, share their honest and adorable memories of what starting school felt like. From making new friends to building forts out of cardboard, and even facing those big first-day jitters, their stories remind us that confidence is built one moment, one mistake, one joyful discovery at a time. Lucas and Emma also talk about the after-school programs that helped them find their voice—from book clubs to art and coding—and how early encouragement shaped their love for learning. If you're wondering how to help your child feel seen, safe, and supported, this episode is for you. Tune in NOW: ▶️ First Bells & Big Feelings: Young Innovators Share Their First School Memories Lucas Wilson, a shining example of what it means to grow up with the Young Innovators mindset. Lucas joined Young Innovators Academy at just 18 months old and is now thriving as an afterschool student. He embodies the Four Pillars of the program — Growth Mindset, Emotional Intelligence, Maker Capacities, and Philanthropy — every single day. Lucas has found his voice and leadership through our enrichment programs, especially in Book Club, where he mentors younger students and inspires a love for reading. His passion for storytelling and technology has led him to author original children's books and explore coding. Emma Wilson is also a proud Young Innovators graduate, having participated in both after-school and summer camp programs. Emma’s creativity shines through her love for the arts, making, and her unwavering growth mindset. Like her brother Lucas, Emma is a compassionate, curious learner who isn’t afraid to take risks and dream big. Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram:
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From Chaos to Confidence Navigating the First Day of School
08/05/2025
From Chaos to Confidence Navigating the First Day of School
With a little prep, structure, and the right mindset, the first day can feel like a confident step forward for both you and your child. In this episode, Erika Seger, VP of Operations and Compliance at Young Innovators Academy, offers practical, heart-centered advice to help families prepare for the transition from summer to school. From creating consistent morning routines to giving kids choices that empower them, Erika shares tools that calm the chaos and build emotional safety. She also breaks down how to handle separation anxiety, tackle tricky moments like outfit refusals, and establish communication rituals that strengthen parent-child bonds. Replace tears with high-fives and make drop-offs smoother for everyone. Tune into the full episode: ▶️ From Chaos to Confidence: Navigating the First Day of School. Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Erika Seger is the VP of Operations and Compliance at Young Innovators Academy and a childcare expert with over 20 years of experience in early childhood education. Known for her leadership in multi-site operations and summer camp programs, she helps families and educators turn transitions into opportunities for growth. Erika blends structure with play, offering practical strategies to ease first-day-of-school jitters and build children's confidence from day one. Her approach empowers caregivers to support emotional development and create smooth, joyful starts to the school year. LinkedIn: Facebook: Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram: #BackToSchoolTips #GracefulParenting #ConnectedParenting
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Preschool Readiness: Cognitive Exercises to Help Your Child Thrive in a New Environment
07/29/2025
Preschool Readiness: Cognitive Exercises to Help Your Child Thrive in a New Environment
As young children step into preschool for the first time, they need the right tools and support so those first steps can be full of confidence, not fear. In this episode, Chelsie Smyth, PsyD, neuropsychologist at AdventHealth, explains how early cognitive exercises can help ease the shift from home to school. From peek-a-boo to matching games, Dr. Chelsie outlines age-appropriate brain-building activities that support attention, flexibility, and emotional regulation. She also offers practical advice on how parents can recognize stress signals, build familiarity with the classroom, and foster a strong caregiver bond—especially in families navigating divorce or dual households. If you're preparing your child for preschool or supporting them through early transitions, tune in to this episode! ▶️ Preschool Readiness: Cognitive Exercises to Help Your Child Thrive in a New Environment. Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Chelsie Smyth, Psy.D., is a neuropsychologist who earned her doctorate degree from Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona. She completed her residency at Centerstone in Bradenton, Florida, and a 2-year fellowship in clinical neuropsychology at AdventHealth Orlando. Dr. Chelsie has experience working with a variety of medical conditions, but is passionate about working with patients with epilepsy and seizures. She has conducted inpatient and outpatient neuropsychological evaluations for children and adults with epilepsy. As a researcher, Dr. Chelsie has numerous presentations and publications regarding burnout and has researched the effects of exercise and video gaming on executive functioning. LinkedIn: Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram:
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What Do We Need To Do With High-Energy Children
07/22/2025
What Do We Need To Do With High-Energy Children
Is your energetic child bouncing around while others sit quietly at storytime? If so, this episode is for you! Join Dr. Debby Mitchell, a retired educator from the University of Central Florida, as she shares practical strategies for channeling high energy into joyful learning experiences. Learn how to turn your child’s vibrant energy into their greatest strength and transform everyday moments into meaningful interactions. Embrace their spirited nature. Tune in, learn, and watch them thrive! ▶️ What Do We Need To Do With High-Energy Children Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Dr. Debby Mitchell brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation, with expertise in STEAM education, brain development, children's wellness, and more. Having retired from teaching in the College of Education at the University of Central Florida, Dr. Mitchell continues to inspire with her passion for creating developmentally appropriate activities and resources. With over a decade of collaboration, Marnie and Dr. Mitchell have co-created books and content for children, parents, and educators. Together, they provide actionable advice and relatable discussions that empower listeners to create positive, engaging environments for high-energy kids. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or simply curious, this podcast offers a supportive space to explore what children need to thrive! Youtube: Facebook: X: Pinterest: Checkout Dr. Debby Mitchell’s books here: Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram: #EarlyLearning #ConfidentParenting #QualityChildcare
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Breaking Down What’s Broken—and What Happens If We Don’t Fix It
07/15/2025
Breaking Down What’s Broken—and What Happens If We Don’t Fix It
The current education system needs to see children NOT as mere numbers, but as boundless possibilities. In this episode, Tanisha Taylor, an inspiring educator, opens up about what’s broken in education and what we can do to fix it. She offers practical strategies that spark curiosity and honor each child’s unique gifts. Tanisha shares real stories of students struggling under testing stress, the loss of hands-on learning, and the importance of helping kids build confidence, resilience, and joy in learning. You’ll hear how parents can support kids beyond test scores and how it fuels her mission to put children—not rankings—first. Tune in for a powerful conversation that just might change how you see your child’s potential. ▶️ Breaking Down What’s Broken—and What Happens If We Don’t Fix It. Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Tanisha Taylor is an experienced educator whose journey spans early childhood, elementary, public, and private education across Jamaica and the U.S. Passionate about transforming outdated systems, she champions personalized, hands-on learning that nurtures children's individuality, creativity, and resilience. Tanisha advocates for reducing test-driven pressure, building student confidence, and focusing on meaningful, collaborative learning experiences. Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram:
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From Idea to Impact: The Journey That Ignited Young
07/08/2025
From Idea to Impact: The Journey That Ignited Young
Big dreams often start small. In this special episode, Valerie Trapp interviews her mom, Marnie Forestieri, uncovering her journey from child performer to global journalist to education innovator. Marnie shares how creativity, resilience, and bold vision led to the Young Innovators Academy and the CAPE framework, a superhero-inspired approach to raising future-ready kids. Tune in and be inspired to turn your story into a legacy. ▶️ From Idea to Impact: The Journey That Ignited Young Innovators. Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Valerie Trapp is a quadrilingual writer, editor, and current Assistant Editor for Culture, Family, and Books at The Atlantic. A Stanford graduate with a degree in English and minors in international relations and human rights, Valerie brings a global, empathetic lens to storytelling. Her journalism spans deep cultural analysis and personal narratives, honed through roles at Stanford Magazine, the Council on Foreign Relations, and Palabra. Valerie’s commitment to elevating underrepresented voices and her cross-cultural insight enrich every conversation she leads. LinkedIn: Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram: #FutureReadyEducation #CAPEFramework #PurposeDriven
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How Great Projects Start: Listening to Kids and Sparking Lifelong Learning
07/01/2025
How Great Projects Start: Listening to Kids and Sparking Lifelong Learning
The most powerful ideas often begin in the curious minds of children. In this episode, early childhood expert Lesbiliz Dixon takes us inside her classroom to share how everyday sounds can turn into full-on learning adventures. Children’s curiosity becomes the heartbeat of innovation. Learn how to turn everyday questions like “why is the grass green?” into rich investigations at home using three simple steps: spark curiosity, research together, and create experiences. See how listening to kids can change the way we all learn. See how listening to kids can change the way we all learn. Watch the episode of ▶️ How Great Projects Start: Listening to Kids and Sparking Lifelong Learning. Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Lesbiliz Dixon I have been happily married since 2015 and my husband and I have 2 beautiful daughters in elementary school. I enjoy discovering different foods and challenging my palate and my favorite flower is the sunflower. I was born in Puerto Rico with a long lineage of educators in my family. My passion for early childhood education is more than enjoying to play with the children, but to witness and be part of their development as they grow. I strive to find many opportunities for educators to become more educated on how to implement best practices in their classroom to assure positive learning outcomes for each child and to help equip families to cope with their challenges and help strengthen their child’s development and skills. Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram: #SparkChildCuriosity #LearningThroughArt #Drawing
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Little Minds, Big Languages: How Early Language Learning Shapes Kids' Futures
06/24/2025
Little Minds, Big Languages: How Early Language Learning Shapes Kids' Futures
Little children are natural language learners, so why wait? In this episode, language immersion specialist Luisa Weinstein discusses how her trilingual home inspired LuluTom, a multilingual program that is transforming classrooms across Florida. Luisa debunks common myths about language learning and offers simple, enjoyable methods for introducing new languages, even for parents who may not speak them themselves. Early exposure to multiple languages enhances cognitive skills, fosters cultural awareness, and builds lasting confidence. Tune in to hear how you can nurture global thinking right from the playroom.▶️ Little Minds, Big Languages: How Early Language Learning Shapes Kids' Futures. Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Luisa Weinstein is a multilingual education specialist passionate about early language acquisition. Originally from Colombia, she draws on her global experience and fluency in English, French, Mandarin, and Spanish to help young children thrive in multilingual environments. Luisa has designed immersive learning platforms that blend books, videos, and printables to make language fun and accessible. Now based in Florida, she empowers families to nurture empathy and cultural understanding through language. Her work is at the heart of programs that shape how kids connect with the world through Spanish and Chinese. Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram:
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Raising Innovators: Teaching Tiny Humans Big Emotions with Sammy Canabal
06/17/2025
Raising Innovators: Teaching Tiny Humans Big Emotions with Sammy Canabal
Helping young children manage their emotional outbursts can feel challenging, but as parents, it’s also our chance to build lifelong emotional skills. In this episode, Sammy Canabal, an experienced instructional coach at Young Innovators, shares valuable insights to guide your child through their emotional highs and lows and offers strategies for calmly addressing meltdowns. Learn practical, easy-to-use techniques to help your child recognize and communicate their feelings, turning stressful moments into meaningful connections. Uncover simple and effective activities, like storytelling, songs, and interactive play, that can transform your parenting approach to your children. Tune in now! Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Sammy Canabal is an experienced Instructional Coach at Young Innovators Academy with nearly two decades in early childhood education. Passionate about emotional and social development, Sammy specializes in mentoring educators to create environments where children can confidently manage their big emotions. As the Project Liaison for "Empowering Communities," she collaborates with Harvard professors to lead innovative educational initiatives. Sammy believes deeply in the power of structured routines and plays to support emotional regulation and lifelong learning. Her commitment ensures every child feels seen, heard, and ready to thrive. Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram: #ParentingTips #TantrumSolutions #EmotionalIntelligence
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Why Music in Early Childhood Matters More Than You Think
06/10/2025
Why Music in Early Childhood Matters More Than You Think
Before kids speak, they sing. Before they count, they clap. Music fuels brain growth, emotional expression, and joyful learning from the very start. In this episode of Raising Innovators, Mariangel Cestari joins us to explore how music shapes children’s lives, cognitively, socially, and emotionally. Her journey from infant teacher to performer brings a unique lens on how musical instruction supports everything from brain development to emotional regulation. Mary also breaks down how she introduces music to kids as young as four and shares signs that your child might be ready for lessons. Plus, she reminds us that falling in love with the right instrument is part of the magic! Tune in for inspiring stories and practical tips. ▶️ Why Music in Early Childhood Matters More Than You Think. Mariangel Cestari is an Opera Singer, a classically trained soprano, and an early childhood educator who blends her passion for music and teaching. After earning her degree in Early Childhood Education from the Catholic University Andres Bello in Venezuela, she pursued her dream of becoming a professional opera singer in the U.S. Despite obstacles, Mariangel trained under renowned mentors and performed key roles with the Central Florida Lyric Opera and the Orlando Opera. With a deep belief in the power of music, Mariangel continues to inspire young learners through both performance and education. Website: Facebook: Instagram: Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram: #EarlyIntervention #WholeChildApproach #MusicForChildren
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Navigating Childcare: A Parent’s Guide to Finding the Perfect Early Learning Program
06/03/2025
Navigating Childcare: A Parent’s Guide to Finding the Perfect Early Learning Program
As parents, we desire a nurturing environment where our children feel safe, loved, and inspired. In this episode, childcare expert Misti Castner shares insights into what constitutes a high-quality early learning center and provides guidance for parents in selecting the best environment for their child. She discusses essential factors such as security measures, teacher qualifications, and the developmental advantages of various educational philosophies. From Montessori to STEM-focused programs, we examine how to find a center that aligns with your child’s learning needs and personality. Additionally, we explore the importance of structured routines and engaged educators in fostering a child's growth and confidence. The early years are magical—let’s make them count. Tune in for expert insights, real-life guidance, and the encouragement you need to navigate this journey with confidence. ▶️ Navigating Childcare: A Parent’s Guide to Finding the Perfect Early Learning Program. Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Misti Castner is an award-winning childcare expert with over 25 years of experience guiding families through early education choices. As a veteran childcare director and business consultant for Young Innovators, she is dedicated to raising industry standards and supporting providers. Misti’s passion for quality care and education shines through in her work, helping parents navigate the complexities of finding the perfect early learning program. Whether planning staff events in Oviedo or mentoring educators, she blends compassion and expertise to create meaningful childcare experiences. Website: Facebook: Instagram: Youtube: LinkedIn: _________________________ Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram:
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How Early Support and Intervention Change Children's Lives
05/27/2025
How Early Support and Intervention Change Children's Lives
How can a nurturing early childhood experience combined with timely intervention dramatically alter the course of a child's life? In this episode of Raising Innovators, featuring Alfreda Clark, Executive Director of AdventHealth for Children’s West Lakes Early Learning Center. Alfreda offers a heartfelt and insightful perspective on the transformative impact of early screenings and interventions. Discover the uniqueness of her school model, which seamlessly integrates health equity, educational excellence, and community-focused care. Alfreda also shares invaluable strategies for initiating sensitive conversations with families, recognizing behaviors that may indicate deeper needs, and cultivating inclusive classroom environments that empower every child to thrive. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how we can collectively shape a brighter future for our children! Tune in and be enlightened: ▶️ How Early Support and Intervention Change Children's Lives. Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Alfreda Clark is the executive director at West Lakes Early Learning Center by Advent Health. She is a dynamic leader with over fifteen years of progressively responsible management of educational initiatives. In-depth knowledge of state and city regulations governing construction and implementation of start-up facilities. Proven ability to run successful quality programs based on external audits. Strong track record of increasing referrals and creating community awareness, generating revenues, and implementing cost saving measures. Regarded as in-house computer resource person, providing end user support, training, and troubleshooting. Website: LinkedIn: Facebook: Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram:
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How Do We Become Our Child's First Teachers?
05/20/2025
How Do We Become Our Child's First Teachers?
How Do We Become Our Child's First Teachers? No manual. No instructions. Just you and your baby. From the moment we leave the hospital, we step into the most important role we’ll ever play—our child’s first teacher. In this episode, Dr. Debby Mitchell joins the conversation to unpack what it truly means to be your child’s first teacher. Together, we explore real-life strategies you can use at home to ignite learning through everyday moments. Dr. Debby introduces the powerful CAPE method—Challenge, Analyze, Produce, Evaluate—as a hands-on way to guide children through discovery and problem-solving. Whether you’re asking big questions you don’t have the answers to (and that’s okay!), learning can happen everywhere. Embracing your child’s curiosity and asking questions with them might be the best lesson of all. Tune in, take notes, and join us on our mission to raise the next generation of innovators—starting right at home. How Do We Become Our Child's First Teachers? Dr. Debby Mitchell is a retired professor from the University of Central Florida’s College of Education and a leading voice in STEM education and child development. With decades of experience, she specializes in creating developmentally appropriate activities that support children's wellness and learning. Dr. Mitchell has co-authored books and resources with Marnie to help parents and educators guide high-energy kids with confidence. Her work empowers caregivers to become their children’s first and most impactful teachers. Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram:
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Raising Innovators at Age Two: Insights from a Master Teacher with Genesis Arreola
05/13/2025
Raising Innovators at Age Two: Insights from a Master Teacher with Genesis Arreola
Being with children and caring for them is both a passion and a privilege. In this episode, Genesis Arreola, a passionate early childhood educator & musician, unpacks the “terrible twos” reputation and brings solutions to help raise little innovators at the young age of two. As a master teacher, she provides expert advice on creating a proper home environment and techniques for handling tantrums. She guides parents on staying calm and choosing age-appropriate activities. She walks us through developing relationships with toddlers, instilling discipline, emotional regulation, and encouraging independence. Learn more about how to make a difference in a child’s life every day. ▶️ Raising Innovators at Age Two: Insights from a Master Teacher. Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Genesis Arreola is a dedicated early childhood educator with a remarkable ability to connect with and inspire two-year-olds. Currently serving as the lead teacher in the two-year-old classroom at Young Innovators Academy in Winter Park, Genesis has established herself as a master at nurturing young minds during this crucial stage of development. Before discovering her love for education, Genesis pursued a successful career as a music teacher. This unique background brings an additional layer of creativity and energy to her teaching approach, making her classroom an engaging and enriching environment for her students. Driven by her passion for shaping young futures, Genesis seamlessly combines her talents as a musician with her commitment to early childhood education, ensuring every child in her care feels supported, understood, and inspired Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram: #EarlyChildhoodEducation #TerribleTwos #ParentingTips
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Helping Your Child Set Boundaries Without Fear or Guilt with Dr. Chelsie Smyth, PsyD
05/06/2025
Helping Your Child Set Boundaries Without Fear or Guilt with Dr. Chelsie Smyth, PsyD
Every child deserves to feel safe, confident, and respected. Setting boundaries is giving kids the tools to understand their world and protect themselves. In this episode of Raising Innovators, Dr. Smythe, a neuropsychology expert, offers practical strategies for helping young children set and respect boundaries. She walks us through how toddlers can begin identifying safe vs. unsafe touch, naming emotions, and learning to advocate for themselves. We also dive into the importance of parents setting healthy boundaries for themselves and why self-regulation is key to modeling emotional intelligence. Listen now and learn how early boundaries lay the foundation for lifelong confidence and empathy. ▶️ Helping Your Child Set Boundaries Without Fear or Guilt. Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Chelsie Smyth, PsyD, is a neuropsychologist who earned her doctorate degree from Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona. She completed her residency at Centerstone in Bradenton, Florida and a 2-year fellowship in clinical neuropsychology at AdventHealth Orlando. Dr. Smyth has experience working with a variety of medical conditions, but is passionate about working with patients with epilepsy and seizures. She has conducted inpatient and outpatient neuropsychological evaluations for children and adults with epilepsy. As a researcher, Dr. Smyth has numerous presentations and publications and has researched the effects of video gaming on executive functions. Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram:
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The Baby Whisperer: How To Take Care, Connect, and Teach Your Infant with Leslie Bermudez
04/29/2025
The Baby Whisperer: How To Take Care, Connect, and Teach Your Infant with Leslie Bermudez
Babies don’t come with manuals, but some people just seem to understand them anyway. In this episode of Raising Innovators, Leslie Bermudez, affectionately known as “The Baby Whisperer,” walks us through her journey from being a nurturing big sister at age four to becoming a highly respected infant care specialist. Her classroom is more than a space—it’s a sanctuary of calm, connection, and constant learning. Leslie shares how she builds trust with both babies and parents, interprets different types of cries, and encourages development through play, conversation, and even sign language. Tune in to hear how love, intention, and a little bit of daily magic can shape the earliest days of a child’s life. ▶️ The Baby Whisperer: How To Take Care, Connect, and Teach Your Infant Ms. Leslie Bermudez is a dedicated early childhood professional with a specialized focus on infant programs. With much of her career devoted to studying and understanding the developmental needs of infants, she has become a recognized expert in her field. Her commitment to excellence was honored by the Early Learning Coalition, naming her Teacher of the Month. Ms. Bermudez also holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, further showcasing her expertise and dedication to nurturing young minds. Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning. Website: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes. Website: Facebook: LinkedIn: Instagram:
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