Innovate & Elevate: The FSD Podcast

Fullerton School District
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  • NON-PROFIT
  • MONTHLY

Step into the world of educational innovation with Fullerton School District’s Innovate & Elevate Podcast! Join Pablo Diaz, Director of Innovation and Instructional Support, and Amber Muños, Public Information Officer, as they spotlight the voices driving transformation in FSD. From cutting-edge teaching methods and creative learning opportunities to robust social-emotional support systems and the behind-the-scenes efforts that keep the district thriving—this podcast celebrates the heart and vision behind FSD's 15 elementary schools, two TK through eighth-grade campuses, and three junior highs that are all located in the "education community" that is Fullerton, Calif. Each episode offers inspiring conversations with the people making it all happen, showcasing the excellence that fuels FSD's student success, family support, community engagement, and all-around excellence in public education.

Episodes

  1. Innovate & Elevate: We’re back - Season 2 Premiere!

    30/10/2025

    Innovate & Elevate: We’re back - Season 2 Premiere!

    Pablo Díaz and Amber Muños are back behind the mics, ready to kick off Season 2 of Innovate & Elevate: The FSD Podcast! In this special recap episode, they reflect on some of the incredible guests who joined the inaugural season, share the exciting innovations already happening across the Fullerton School District this school year, and welcome listeners back to this “little podcast with big dreams.” Join them as they celebrate the heart of FSD—our people, our programs, and our shared belief in what’s possible when creativity, care, and collaboration fuel public education. ✨Tune in, get inspired, and help us celebrate the innovation that elevates every student, every school, every day. #fsdlearns #fsdconnects For full details about the Fullerton School District, a TK through eighth-grade district located in Fullerton, Calif., visit fullertonsd.org

    25 min
  2. Phil Ling, Director, Educational Services, FSD Arts Team

    09/04/2025

    Phil Ling, Director, Educational Services, FSD Arts Team

    Innovate & Elevate: From Clay Labs to K-Pop: The Artful Leadership of FSD’s Phil Ling 🎙️ Spring has sprung, as has a new episode of Innovate & Elevate: The FSD Podcast! In this latest episode, Phil Ling–a big heart behind the vibrant arts programming in Fullerton School District schools–joins Pablo and Amber in the studio to chat about all things art in FSD. Known for his incredible organization, compassionate leadership, and commitment to student growth, Phil shares how he and his team, with the steadfast support of the philanthropic organization All the Arts for All the Kids Foundation, help ensure arts access across the district—from clay labs and performing arts to innovative new programs like the K-Pop Battle of the Bands. With the grand finale of the K-Pop Battle happening TOMORROW, April 9, at 5 p.m. at The Source OC in Buena Park (come check this FREE event out!), Phil gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it took to bring this exciting event to the stage. Tune in to hear how he and the FSD Arts team ensure every student has the opportunity to explore different avenues of creative expression through meaningful and engaging arts opportunities. This episode is a celebration of art innovation and the power of the arts to inspire young minds and change lives. It's a true masterpiece for the ears! ➡️ Tune in at bit.ly/FSDInnovateAndElevatePodcast ➡️ You can also listen on YoutTube at bit.ly/FSDInnovateAndElevateS1E4 ⭐️ You can also search for “Innovate & Elevate: The FSD Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! #fsdarts #fsdlearns #fsdconnects #fsdinspires #fsdinnovates #kpop #performingarts

    20 min
  3. Jeremy Davis, Assistant Superintendent, Innovation & Instructional Support

    14/02/2025

    Jeremy Davis, Assistant Superintendent, Innovation & Instructional Support

    Innovate & Elevate: The FSD Podcast Episode 4 is out and features an EdTech guru you won’t want to miss! 🎙️ Pablo and Amber are here with a brand new episode for your ears! We’re talking all things EdTech and showcasing what it truly means to “innovate” as we welcome Jeremy Davis, Fullerton School District’s Assistant Superintendent of Innovation and Instructional Support, to the studio for an inspiring conversation on the power of technology in education, what dreaming big looks like, exploring artificial intelligence, and so much more. From his journey into public education to his passion for technology in the classroom, internet safety, and digital wellness, Jeremy shares how he’s shaping a future where students harness technology for good. Learn how his forward-thinking leadership empowers students, educators, and the community to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly—while unlocking new opportunities for learning and innovation! For Digital Wellness resources, internet safety tips, and more, visit bit.ly/FSDInternetSafety #fsdlearns #fsdconnects #fsdinspires #edtech #ai

    29 min
  4. Esther Kim, Program Coordinator, Educational Services

    17/12/2024

    Esther Kim, Program Coordinator, Educational Services

    Innovate & Elevate: The FSD Podcast Episode 3 is here with a dynamic new voice from an education all-star! In this episode, Pablo and Amber sit down with Fullerton School District’s Esther Kim, Program Coordinator in Educational Services, to explore her inspiring journey in public education and STEM leadership. From starting kindergarten as a non-English speaker, spending time as a student in FSD schools, and becoming a triple Bruin with a doctorate underway at UCLA, Esther's story is one of resilience, innovation, and passion for student success. Hear about her favorite projects, like the teacher coding partnership with UCI that empowers educators and students alike, and how she champions equity and creativity to ensure all students—especially girls—see themselves as future leaders in STEM and entrepreneurship. Esther also shares her insights on staying current with educational trends, fostering community relationships, and finding purpose through problem-solving and collaboration. Whether you're an educator, parent, or education enthusiast, this episode will inspire you with Esther's dedication to creating meaningful opportunities for students and teachers to thrive in a fast-changing world. #fsdlearns #fsdconnects #fsdinspires For full details about the Fullerton School District, a TK through eighth-grade district located in Fullerton, Calif., visit fullertonsd.org

    32 min
  5. Mike McAdam, Director of Purchasing, Warehouse, Contracts & Reprographics

    13/11/2024

    Mike McAdam, Director of Purchasing, Warehouse, Contracts & Reprographics

    Innovate & Elevate: The FSD Podcast Episode 2 is here with a new voice and story you won’t want to miss! Join Pablo and Amber as they sit down with Mike McAdam, who earns Fullerton School District’s most epic title as FSD’s Director of Purchasing, Warehouse, Contracts, and Reprographics, for an inspiring look into his journey and passion for public service. Mike shares how his forward-thinking approach and commitment to community fuel his team’s essential behind-the-scenes work, from managing contracts and logistics to hosting “How to Do Business with FSD” workshops for local vendors. Discover Mike’s “why” as he and his team shape the future of public education, one innovative solution at a time! #fsdlearns #fsdconnects To learn more about how to do business with the Fullerton School District, visit bit.ly/HowToDoBusinessWithFSD For full details about the Fullerton School District, a TK through eighth-grade district located in Fullerton, Calif., visit fullertonsd.org

    22 min
  6. Dr. Bob Pletka, Superintendent

    08/10/2024

    Dr. Bob Pletka, Superintendent

    Kickstarting our inaugural episode of the Innovate & Elevate podcast, we’re joined by none other than the “super” in superintendent, the visionary leader himself, Dr. Bob Pletka! With over 12 years leading the Fullerton School District and 35 years of dedicated service in public education, Dr. Pletka is a true innovator at heart. Join hosts Pablo and Amber as they dive into his inspiring journey, explore how education can break the cycle of poverty, unpack the real meaning of "innovation," and much more! Don't miss this insightful and energizing conversation! #fsdlearns #fsdconnects To learn more about Fullerton School District's Tiny Home Project, visit bit.ly/tinyhomeprogress For full details about the Fullerton School District, a TK through eighth-grade district located in Fullerton, Calif., visit fullertonsd.org.

    30 min
  • 6 Episodes

About

Step into the world of educational innovation with Fullerton School District’s Innovate & Elevate Podcast! Join Pablo Diaz, Director of Innovation and Instructional Support, and Amber Muños, Public Information Officer, as they spotlight the voices driving transformation in FSD. From cutting-edge teaching methods and creative learning opportunities to robust social-emotional support systems and the behind-the-scenes efforts that keep the district thriving—this podcast celebrates the heart and vision behind FSD's 15 elementary schools, two TK through eighth-grade campuses, and three junior highs that are all located in the "education community" that is Fullerton, Calif. Each episode offers inspiring conversations with the people making it all happen, showcasing the excellence that fuels FSD's student success, family support, community engagement, and all-around excellence in public education.

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