More Math for More People

Latest Episodes:

Episode 5.2: What do you do for the last few days of school? May 27, 2025

Show notes

Testing is over? What do YOU do to fill the last few days of school? We're watching eaglets!

The natural world offers endless fascination when we take time to observe it closely. This week, Joel and Misty share their current obsession with tracking the Big Bear Valley bald eagles through a live nest cam, discovering the remarkable process of how eaglets prepare for their first flight.
Starting with reflections on National Sunscreen Day, the hosts exchange memorable sunburn stories from childhood Disney trips to first date disasters, highlighting our evolving understanding of sun protection. What was once baby oil and reflectors has thankfully given way to proper UV protection, especially important for preserving tattoo art and preventing skin cancer.
The conversation shifts to the eaglets Gizmo and Sunny, whom Joel and Misty have watched transform from helpless gray fuzzy blobs to magnificent juveniles with impressive wingspans. Contrary to what many might assume, eagles don't simply jump off the nest and instinctively know how to fly. The hosts describe watching the eaglets practice by stretching their wings, performing vigorous flapping exercises while holding onto nest materials, and, perhaps, observing other birds in flight - all preparations for that momentous first flight that could happen any day now.
This eagle-watching journey sparked fascinating discussions about avian development, personal eagle encounters across the country, and lesser-known eagle facts (did you know female bald eagles are larger than males, and that these majestic birds make surprisingly squeaky calls?). The hosts share stories of magical eagle sightings from Minnesota to Kansas, reflecting on how eagle populations have made an impressive comeback in recent decades.
Want to join the eagle-watching community? Check the link HERE to access the Big Bear Valley eagle cam and witness this remarkable natural phenomenon for yourself. And don't forget to tune in on June 10th for our National Iced Tea Day episode, where we'll explore the history and preparation of this refreshing summer beverage!

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The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: cpmpodcast@cpm.org

Episode 5.1: Tulips and a Conversation about Reimagining HS Math May 13, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to Season 5 of the More Math for More People podcast!!!
What if high school mathematics could be truly transformed into something students find engaging, meaningful, and applicable to their lives? In this thought-provoking conversation with mathematics education experts Kris Cunningham and Kristi Martin, we dive deep into the possibilities presented in the NCTM publication "High School Mathematics Reimagined, Revitalized, and Relevant."
The discussion opens doors to a reimagined approach to high school mathematics that moves beyond the traditional curriculum model. Both guests highlight the importance of mathematical modeling as a pathway to authentic learning experiences where students tackle complex, multi-variable problems without predetermined solutions. This creates space for creative thinking and problem-solving skills that transcend the classroom.
However, transformation doesn't come without challenges. Kristi candidly shares her classroom experiences of struggling to surface the mathematical concepts within engaging modeling activities and the difficulty of finding relevant problems that align with required standards. Kris emphasizes the need for systemic support, including administrative understanding and professional development opportunities that give teachers space to experiment and grow.
Perhaps most powerfully, both educators stress the importance of persistence through inevitable frustrations. "If you believe in it and know it's great for students, just keep trying," Kristi encourages, reminding listeners that transformation is a journey rather than a destination. The conversation serves as both inspiration and practical roadmap for anyone interested in creating mathematics education that truly prepares students for their futures rather than simply repeating practices of the past.

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: cpmpodcast@cpm.org

Episode 4.25: National Zipper Day and some Nick Love! Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

What happens when someone who doesn't identify as a "math person" joins a mathematics education organization? In our milestone 101st episode, Nick Love, CPM's Director of Strategic Communications, shares candid insights about navigating this territory that reveal powerful lessons about creating inclusive learning environments.

After spending years in school communications without being a classroom teacher, Nick found himself surrounded by mathematics education experts—an experience he describes as both inspiring and occasionally intimidating. "It's a little bit like hanging out with giants sometimes," he admits. His stories highlight what happens when we create spaces where everyone feels welcome to engage with mathematics, regardless of their background or comfort level.

Nick recounts a pivotal professional learning experience where a skilled facilitator simply asked, "What do you need to be successful in this session?" This question transformed his participation from anxiety to meaningful engagement. Rather than being tokenized, he was genuinely included in ways that honored his perspective while stretching his mathematical thinking appropriately. The experience shifted from "I don't belong here" to "I'm in with this group"—a transformation that mirrors what we hope all learners experience in mathematics classrooms.

We also explore what Nick calls "the art of the nudge"—a communication approach recognizing that when people don't respond to requests, it's usually because they're overwhelmed with competing priorities rather than disinterest. This gentle persistence creates connection rather than frustration, a valuable perspective for educators working with busy students and colleagues alike.

As we launch into our fifth season of the podcast, this conversation reminds us why our mission matters: creating conditions where everyone can engage meaningfully with mathematics expands possibilities for learning and belonging. Subscribe now to join us for more conversations about mathematics education that make a difference.

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: cpmpodcast@cpm.org

Episode 4.24: Part 2 with Dr Nicole Joseph and National Rubber Eraser Day Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

First, it's National Rubber Eraser Day! So get your Pink Pearls out and celebrate!!

Then, we continue our conversation with Dr. Nicole Joseph of Vanderbilt University about the mathematical experiences of Black girls, revealing how they navigate spaces where they face unique challenges at the intersection of race and gender. Her research shows that Black girls are disproportionately affected by school disciplinary policies while simultaneously battling stereotypes about who belongs in mathematics.
Joseph's Black Feminist Math Pedagogies framework offers a revolutionary approach to mathematics education that honors both academic rigor and social connection. She challenges traditional notions of what "serious" math learning looks like, showing how Black girls thrive in environments that allow for laughter, collaboration, and relationship-building alongside challenging problem-solving. This transformative approach requires teachers to create classroom communities where critical conversations about justice and equity can flourish.
One message resonates clearly: curriculum alone cannot address educational inequities. Creating truly inclusive mathematics classrooms requires teachers who understand the complexities of students' identities and design learning environments where all students feel they belong.

Academy of Best Practices is happening in San Diego, CA on Aug 4-8! Find applications for the Academy for New Teachers and Veteran CPM Teachers HERE! Deadline is May 10.

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: cpmpodcast@cpm.org

Episode 4.23 - We begin Math and Stats Month and talk with Dr Nicole Joseph Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

First, we launch into Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month. But we don't need to tell YOU how important this is!!
Then we have part one of a conversation with Dr. Nicole Joseph of Vanderbilt University. Dr. Nicole Joseph takes us on a profound journey into the heart of mathematics education, revealing how identity shapes learning experiences, particularly for Black girls. Drawing from her personal story of being moved to an honors math class after her mother confronted a teacher who repeatedly overlooked her raised hand, Joseph illuminates how pivotal classroom moments can transform a student's relationship with mathematics forever.
The conversation dives deep into mathematics identity – that powerful construct encompassing both how we perceive ourselves as math learners and how others perceive us. Joseph explains how a teacher's belief in a student's potential can completely reshape their mathematical self-concept, while negative experiences can cement a lifelong belief of "not being a math person" despite successfully using math in everyday life.
Most compellingly, Joseph unpacks the structural barriers that contribute to Black girls' underrepresentation in mathematics. From the patriarchal culture of mathematics departments lined with portraits of white male mathematicians to the misinterpretation of Black girls' classroom behaviors like question-asking as weakness rather than engagement, these barriers systematically exclude talented students from advanced mathematical opportunities.
Her research on adultification bias reveals how Black girls are often held to adult standards while being denied the developmental understanding afforded to their white peers, creating additional obstacles to mathematics achievement. This conversation challenges listeners to reconsider how implicit biases manifest in classroom interactions and how we might create more inclusive mathematical spaces.
Continue the conversation and connect with Dr. Joseph:

Thread and Instagram: @nicolemjoseph3

Facebook: nicolemichellejoseph

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: cpmpodcast@cpm.org

Episode 4.22: It's all about Awkward Moments and I&I! Mar 18, 2025

Show notes

First, it's Awkward Moments Day! So we have... well... an awkward opening to the podcast by Joel and Misty...
Then!
What happens when students who struggle with math suddenly start asking for MORE math problems? When they eagerly show their work to administrators and connect classroom concepts to real-world situations? This transformation isn't magic—it's the result of the Inspirations and Ideas (I&I) curriculum being implemented by passionate educators like Lisa Milner from Armada School in Michigan.
Lisa shares her journey from skepticism to enthusiasm about CPM's approach, describing how winning the I&I Initiative allowed her to attend comprehensive training at the National Teacher Institute. The impact on her classroom has been nothing short of remarkable. "These kids trust me and their classmates," Lisa explains. "They're not afraid to say 'I don't know' or 'how did you do this?'... they're cheering each other on."
The I&I curriculum creates a safe learning environment where students previously hindered by math anxiety now thrive through collaborative problem-solving, reflective journaling, and engaging launches. Beyond just helping students in the support class, Lisa has observed these same students becoming leaders in their regular math courses—participating more actively, helping peers, and showing improved performance on assessments.
For educators frustrated by traditional intervention approaches that emphasize remediation over engagement, I&I offers a transformative alternative focused on building deep mathematical understanding and student confidence. Applications for the I&I Initiative are due by May 1st, with winners receiving fully-funded travel to the National Teacher Institute from June 23-27 in Salt Lake City. Apply here.

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: cpmpodcast@cpm.org

Episode 4.21: Teacher Conference Reflections and IGNITE! Mar 04, 2025

Show notes

It's International Scrapbooking Industry Day!

Plus on this far side of the CPM Teacher Conference, we reflect on amazing event and look forward to the next one.

Then we have a live recording of the Ignite talks from the Teacher Conference. So enjoy!
Speaker proposals for 2026 CPM Teacher Conference on February 21-22, 2026 in San Francisco will open on or about April 1!

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: cpmpodcast@cpm.org

Episode 4.20: It's the CPM Teacher Conference week! Feb 18, 2025

Show notes

It's Thumb Appreciation Day! So we begin with an amusing discussion about thumbs (are they fingers?).
Then, since it is the week of the 2025 CPM Teacher Conference, we are taking a bit of a break from new content and giving you a reprise of our first conversation with Dr. Peter Liljedahl from 2022. After you listen to this part, you'll want to also go listen to
Part 2
and
Part 3
of the conversation.
We'll be back with new content in March!

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: cpmpodcast@cpm.org

Episode 4.19: Medjool Date Day and an update from our Join Them on Their Journey peeps Feb 04, 2025

Show notes

It's Medjool Date Day! So first we discuss our ideas about dates...
Then we get some updates for Where They are on Their Journey NOW. Maggie is not in the classroom this year, but Grahame sends us a recording of how he's doing in his second year with CPM.
Enjoy!

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: cpmpodcast@cpm.org

Episode 4.18 - International Sweatpants Day and an update from Brandon Pelter (ABP) Jan 22, 2025

Show notes

This episode celebrates International Sweatpants Day, exploring the history, cultural significance, and societal perceptions of sweatpants while highlighting how comfort can enhance our daily lives. We discuss personal experiences with sweatpants and whether they can be considered professional attire.
Then we visit again with Brandon Pelter, Academy of Best Practices New Teacher participant to get an update of how his year is going. We talk about manipulatives, student engagement, feedback strategies, and more.
If you are interested in finding out more about the Academy of Best Practices program, visit cpm.org/abp. The application deadline is May 1, 2025.

Send Joel and Misty a message!

The More Math for More People Podcast is produced by CPM Educational Program.
Learn more at CPM.org
X: @cpmmath
Facebook: CPMEducationalProgram
Email: cpmpodcast@cpm.org

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