Better Learning Podcast

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The Better Learning Podcast is about improving education at all levels - Schools (public, charter, private, independent), Higher Education, & Corporate/Adult Learning. The major theme is to break down the silos and learn from others doing innovative things in education. We highlight innovative programs & initiatives, lessons learned, improvements to educational space, and real-world tactics while getting a deeper understanding of the people behind the innovation. Our guests include Heads of Schools, Superintendents, Principals, Entrepreneurs, Non-profit leaders and other innovators. Kevin Stoller, CEO of Kay-Twelve.com & author of Creating Better Learning Environments, is the host.

Lessons From 27 Years of Building Better Schools with Larry Levato

Jun 24, 2026

Mark Barga talks with Larry Levato, veteran educational architect at Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates, about what it really takes to design schools that serve students, teachers, and communities alike — and why the process matters as much as the product.

Takeaways:

Design for teachers too. Educators spend more time...

Building a Middle School that Supports Student Learning with James Liebman

Jun 17, 2026

In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Jessica Westerduin sits down with James Liebman, senior associate at HMFH Architects, to explore how thoughtful school design can elevate student wellbeing, foster belonging, and support great teaching. Drawing on 30 years in architecture — from higher education to...

One Community's Fight to Save Their School with Dr. Tim Matlack, Phil Leinbach & Ken Bonkoski

Jun 10, 2026

In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Mark Barga sits down with Dr. Tim Matlack (superintendent), Ken Bonkoski (director of facilities), and Phil Leinbach (architect, EM Architects) to tell the story of Antietam School District's response to a catastrophic flash flood on July 9, 2023 — and how a small,...

Designing Spaces That Last Starts With Knowing Your Why with Candice Leinneweber

Jun 3, 2026

In this episode, Matt Rogers sits down with Candice Leinneweber, Director of Design at MA+ Architecture and 2025 EdMarket NextGen Award winner, for a wide-ranging conversation about what it takes to design schools that truly serve students. Candice shares her winding path — from a family bakery in San Diego, to an...