The Modulo Community Podcast

Expert tips and best practices on modular learning

A weekly podcast about PreK-12th grade education, homeschooling and modular learning. teachyourkids.substack.com

Episodes

  1. 29/03/2025

    Dr. Joan Cotter, legendary founder of Right Start Math

    Anyone who has ever hosted a podcast knows the magic of finally landing a guest you’ve been hoping to interview for years. Today, I have the extraordinary privilege of sharing a conversation with Dr. Joan Cotter. As a young mom, Montessori teacher, and PhD student in math education, Dr. Cotter began developing what would become one of the most beloved math curricula in the U.S. homeschooling community and around the world. Right Start Math is a creative, gamified, hands-on math program designed for children from PreK through 8th grade. Right Start Math is a rare gem that meets all of Modulo’s criteria for a strong math program: * It’s mastery-based, allowing children to move at their own pace through a sequence that aligns with how math learning actually works. * It emphasizes deep conceptual understanding over rote memorization of procedures. * It’s fun and engaging for children. Kids love it. * The customer-feedback loop is child-centric. It’s constantly evolving based on feedback to better meet the needs of learners. * It’s designed specifically to support families and caregivers helping their children with math (whether they have teaching experience or not), as opposed to being designed to support schools and trained math educators. Right Start is a treasure in the homeschooling world and one of the only curricula we recommend for gifted learners who thrive with hands-on learning, as well as students with dyscalculia and ADHD. In a world where everyone (and their second cousin) seems to be launching AI math tutors, it’s worth taking a closer look at this extraordinary program, developed by a teacher, continually evolving to serve children better over the past 40 years. In fact, I learned on the podcast that Dr. Cotter still revises the program almost every day. One of the most striking aspects of Right Start is its exceptional customer support. They have learning specialists available to speak with families directly as they navigate the program, ensuring every child can thrive, no matter their learning profile or their parent’s confidence in math. I deeply believe that evolving our K12 education system takes everybody, not just teachers, not just bureaucrats, not just education experts. Everyone should be involved and everyone should be encouraged to innovate in this space. And everyone has valuable experience and feedback to bring from 12 years of schooling or alternative education. However, I often worry that attention and funding are disproportionately given to projects led by individuals skilled in raising capital and marketing, rather than those with deep expertise in teaching and learning. Hiring a teacher onto a team is valuable, but it’s not the same as a program built by a teacher for her own children, and honed over decades to meet real, evolving needs. Moreover, a bespoke program that’s in close contact with its community can be more powerful to a child’s learning than an adaptive learning app or AI tutor build to scale rapidly (and sometimes conflicted between its accountability to investors and its mission to serve children) Dr. Cotter’s Right Start Math is truly a rare gem, and one we should all be paying closer attention to. Watch it on YouTube Join the movement Modulo’s community round is still underway. We’re just $7,000 away from reaching our initial goal. We’re at an unprecedented moment in history. Modulo has a rare opportunity to help public schools open up their offerings to modular learners, bringing vital funding back to districts and expanding access to modular learning for families who need it most. Hitting this benchmark will allow us to bring on a powerhouse team with decades of experience partnering with public school districts and unlocking government funding opportunities for innovative learning models. With their expertise, we are poised to partner with districts, scale modular learning, and grow exponentially in the 2025–2026 school year. Will you join us? Resources Right Start has levels, rather than grades. They suggest each student take a placement test to determine the best level for them. We’ve provided approximate equivalents for each grade, we also recommend you take a placement test here Materials: Materials for every level (you only need to purchase this once) Right Start Tutoring Program Right Start Tutoring Right Start Math Levels Level A (Approximately kindergarten/1st grade) Level B (2nd Grade) Level C (3rd Grade) Level D (4th Grade) Level E (5th grade) Level F (6th grade) Level G (7th grade) Level H (8th grade) High School (Algebra through Calculus) Note that high school has three different programs, Video Text, which is a good choice for self-directed, visual learners who love youtube and learning through videos, Art of Problem Solving which is a great option for independent students who prefer more of an interactive approach. They start with the problems, encouraging students to figure it out on their own and then provide step-by-step solutions with pictures. These can be done independently without a teacher. Finally, Jacob’s includes Geometry and Algebra only, includes a teacher script and requires support from a teacher/caregiver. Affiliate Disclaimer: Modulo has a partnership with Right Start Math, which means we may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. We only recommend resources we truly believe in and have carefully vetted for our community. The Modulo Community is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit teachyourkids.substack.com/subscribe

    56 min
  2. 26/03/2025

    🎧 A Chat with my favorite Science Guys 🧬

    This conversation explores innovative approaches to science education, focusing on the experiences of three educators who have developed unique science programs for homeschooling families: Daniel Fried (Biochemistry Literacy for Kids), Brandon Hendrickson (Science is Weird) and Michael Finnegan (Quantum Courses). They discuss the importance of critical thinking, experiential learning, and the emotional aspects of learning science. The educators share their journeys from traditional teaching to creating engaging, hands-on science programs that challenge conventional methods. They also address controversial topics such as vaccine skepticism and the role of standards in science education, while underlying the fundamental need for curiosity and exploration in learning. If you ever wondered what science should my kids be learning…(and how?)…this is for you. Watch it on YouTube (and do a gal a favor and subscribe, pretty please!) Check out the guys and their incredible science programs: *Daniel Fried (Biochemistry Literacy for Kids) *Brandon Hendrickson (Science is Weird) *Michael Finnegan (Quantum Courses) Check out more great science programs here The Modulo Community is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Modulo is raising a community round! If you’d like to have a stake in our growth, and make it easier than ever for families to find phenomenal resources like Science is Weird, Biochemistry Literacy for Kids and Quantum Courses, consider making an investment in our WeFunder campaign. Investments start at $100 and allow you to grow along with us! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit teachyourkids.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 9m
  3. 22/03/2025

    🏡 Launch Modulo in your city

    For Every Parent Who’s Ever Said, “I Wish This Existed Near Me…” If you’ve ever tried to piece together a beautiful, personalized education for your child, only to be overwhelmed by scattered resources, outdated links, and not-quite-right local groups, then this is for you. Modulo is already helping families find and book high-quality online classes, curriculum, and tutors that match their child’s learning style. Now, we’re expanding the same smart, modular experience into local communities and we’re inviting a few families to help us do it. Through our “Bring Modulo to Your City” Wefunder Perk, you can help launch Modulo in your neighborhood and there are only 3 spots left. Wait! What’s Already Available on Modulo?! Today, Modulo families can: * Explore and book over 1000+ online classes, curriculum, and tutors tailored to their child’s learning profile. * Get personalized recommendations for curriculum, online programs and tutors through our AI-powered learning concierge (currently in Beta and available only to early investors) * Curate custom tutoring plans with a learning concierge to support and track children’s progress across a wide variety of learning modules. This perk is about extending that same ease and personalization into your local world. From co-ops and nature meetups to local tutors and pods, we’ll help make sure the right in-person opportunities are finally easy to find and and easy to trust. 🎥 See Modulo in Action Want to understand how Modulo helps families find and book personalized learning? Watch the product demo here. You’ll see how our search tool uses your child’s needs and interests to find high-quality local and online options, plus real parent reviews, personality-matching, and a seamless booking experience. What You Get When You Launch Modulo in Your City This $10,000 Wefunder perk unlocks a city-first rollout meaning we’ll prioritize your location in city-by-city rollout of the Modulo local marketplace. Here’s what we’ll do: ✅ Map your city’s resources: We’ll identify and onboard 100–1,000 high-quality local tutors, co-ops, and classes, organized by child learning archetype. ✅ Run a community meetup: From unstructured park days to board game nights, we’ll design social spaces that help families connect, especially those with neurodivergent or gifted kids who need more inclusive environments. ✅ Support local teacherpreneurs: We’ll help local educators launch new offerings that fill gaps, whether that’s a nature-based program, a debate club, or a homeschool 3D printing circle. ✅ Boost your brand: If you’re an education entrepreneur, your name will be featured in local Modulo events, social media, and our community launch campaign. ✅ Become a true partner: You’ll work with our team to co-design what your ideal local learning ecosystem looks like and we’ll make it happen. What Families Are Saying These conversations are real and they’re happening everywhere. “We joined a nature walk and unexpectedly met four families that became our homeschool crew. I just wish there were more ways to find things like that in one place.” — Melbourne parent and investor “This is exactly what we need in Singapore. I’ve spent years doing this research alone. Now we can build it together.” — Singapore parent, investor and education entrepreneur “My child is profoundly gifted and socially anxious. Finding the right fit is nearly impossible. With Modulo, I could finally see options that actually match who she is.” — Brooklyn parent and investor “I’ve tried to start math circles, playdates, even tutoring offers in our suburb, and it just hasn’t stuck. The community is here, but it’s so scattered. Something like Modulo could finally pull it together.” — North Dallas parent “We never went back after we saw the strides our kids made homeschooling. Their mental and physical health improved so much — I just wish we had more support finding the right local programs.” —from a homeschool parent, investor and teacher in Santa Barbara Modulo helps families stop conforming to what already exists and start building education around what their children actually need. Only 3 Cities Left in This Round We’re rolling out Modulo city by city, but instead of starting with just New York or LA, we’re starting with where our most passionate community members live. By claiming this perk, you help bring Modulo to your city now. And you become part of a powerful new model for rethinking education from the ground up. This city-first launch is available as a $10,000 Wefunder perk — and we only have 3 remaining 🚀 Ready to bring Modulo to your city? ✅ Claim the perk on Wefunder by investing $10k or more in our community round. or 📅 Book a call with Manisha to learn more Let’s Build the Future of Learning, Together Modulo is more than a platform. It’s a movement, one that says families deserve access to modular, vetted, high-quality learning that adapts to each child. This perk gives you the chance to bring that movement home. To launch real options, real community, and real possibility for your kids and for others. If you’ve ever dreamed of transforming education where you live, this is your moment. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit teachyourkids.substack.com/subscribe

    10 min
  4. 19/03/2025

    Right Start Math: Why Hands-On Math Still Matters in a Digital Age

    In this conversation, Kathleen Cotter Clayton (Vice President of Right Start Math) and Manisha Snoyer explore the value of hands-on learning in math education. They discuss the founding story of Right Start Math, its roots in Montessori methods, and how ongoing research drives continuous improvement. The conversation highlights core tenets of the Right Start Math program, including the emphasis on conceptual understanding over rote memorization and the role of the abacus in learning. Kathleen also shares her role developing a new tutoring program designed to support students who are struggling with math. She offers guidance for parents and caregivers navigating math education for diverse learners, including gifted students and children with dyscalculia. Finally, they discuss the relevance of hands-on learning in an education era increasingly focused on AI-powered technology. Resources Right Start has levels, rather than grades. They suggest each student take a placement test to determine the best level for them. We’ve provided approximate equivalents for each grade, we also recommend you take a placement test here Materials: Materials for every level (you only need to purchase this once) Right Start Tutoring Program Right Start Tutoring Right Start Math Levels Level A (Approximately kindergarten/1st grade) Level B (2nd Grade) Level C (3rd Grade) Level D (4th Grade) Level E (5th grade) Level F (6th grade) Level G (7th grade) Level H (8th grade) High School (Algebra through Calculus) Note that high school has three different programs, Video Text, which is a good choice for self-directed, visual learners who love youtube and learning through videos, Art of Problem Solving which is a great option for independent students who prefer more of an interactive approach. They start with the problems, encouraging students to figure it out on their own and then provide step-by-step solutions with pictures. These can be done independently without a teacher. Finally, Jacob’s includes Geometry and Algebra only, includes a teacher script and requires support from a teacher/caregiver. Watch it on YouTube Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Right Start Math and Its Philosophy 02:54 The Founding Story of Right Start Math 06:08 Evolution of Montessori Methods in Math Education 08:58 The Role of Research and Continuous Improvement 12:05 Kathleen's Role and the New Tutoring Program 14:53 Addressing Parental Concerns in Math Education 17:58 The Importance of Conceptual Understanding in Math 21:08 The Abacus: A Core Tool in Right Start Math 23:56 Understanding Dyscalculia and Learning Differences 27:03 Preparing Children for the Future of Math and AI 33:10 The Joy of Learning Math 35:31 Navigating Advanced Math for Gifted Students 37:30 Transitioning from Middle School to High School Math 39:11 Understanding the Structure of Math Education 43:13 When to Start Learning Math 44:33 The Right Time for Right Start Math 51:06 Encouraging Curiosity in Young Learners 56:34 The Importance of Fun in Math Learning Affiliate Disclaimer Right Start Math is our affiliate partner and the most popular program on the Modulo marketplace. We chose Right Start Math as one of our favorite programs long before we knew about their partnership opportunities. Modulo is a long-time partner of Right Start Math, which means we earn a commission when you purchase through our site, at no extra cost to you. Join Us in Expanding Access to Personalized Learning Resources like Right Start Math This conversation highlights the growing demand for innovative, personalized education, one of the driving forces behind Modulo. Families are looking for alternatives to the one-size-fits-all model, and programs like Right Start Math demonstrate the power of flexible, hands-on learning. At Modulo, we’re building a platform that makes high-quality, vetted educational resources more accessible, especially for families who have traditionally been underserved. If you believe in the future of modular, personalized education, we invite you to support our mission by joining our WeFunder campaign and helping us expand access to the learning tools families need most. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit teachyourkids.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 2m
  5. 05/03/2025

    Child-Centric Education in a Digital Age

    In this conversation, Manisha Snoyer interviews Mickey Revenaugh, education writer, entrepreneur, co-founder of Connections Academy (one of the first public virtual school providers in the United States) and an investor in Modulo, to discuss the evolving landscape of online and unconventional education. They dive into the founding story of Connections Academy, the importance of child-centered learning, and the innovative approaches shaping the future of education. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities in online education, including the role of technology, the balance of stakeholder needs, and the rise of micro schools and education savings accounts (ESA) programs. The dialogue also highlights the significance of understanding family needs, fostering critical thinking, and building supportive communities for unschooling families. Mickey shares her journey of writing a book on diverse educational settings, offering rich insights into how families are embracing unconventional learning environments. They touch on the political aspects of education and the potential for unity among groups prioritizing children’s education. This conversation underscores Modulo’s mission to empower families and educators through innovative solutions—an effort currently being amplified through tour Wefunder campaign, which invites supporters to join in shaping the future of education. Takeaways * Mickey's career path was not linear, reflecting a common experience among women. * The founding of Connections Academy was influenced by the need for innovative education post-9/11. * Child-centered learning requires collaboration between parents, teachers, and students. * Synchronous learning involves real-time interaction, while asynchronous learning allows for flexibility. * Feedback from families was crucial in shaping the curriculum and teaching methods. * Building public school contracts involved identifying visionary superintendents and navigating regulations. * Trust between parents and educators is essential for successful online learning. * The online education market is competitive, but collaboration can lead to better outcomes. * High satisfaction rates are key to the success of online education programs. * The future of education may include more micro schools and flexible learning options. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Online Education Innovations 05:19 The Impact of 9/11 on Educational Reform 10:58 Synchronous vs Asynchronous Learning 18:44 Navigating State Regulations and Legislation 24:29 Competing in the Online Education Market 30:53 The Importance of Self-Directed Learning 35:57 Critical Thinking and Learning How to Learn 41:57 The Role of Children in Influencing Parents 45:59 Engagement Through Shared Activities 53:19 The Journey of Unconventional Education 01:00:03 Navigating the Challenges of Homeschooling 01:08:15 Bridging Divides in Education Keywords: online education, Connections Academy, child-centered learning, synchronous learning, asynchronous learning, educational reform, public school contracts, education technology, micro schools, ESA programs, unschooling, self-directed learning, education innovation, critical thinking, community support, homeschooling, technology in education, diverse learning environments, parent involvement, learning how to learn, unconventional education, homeschooling, unschooling, micro schools, parents, community, learning environments, education challenges, school choice, educational diversity The Modulo Community is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Resources Modulo resources * Modulo * Website: modulo.app * Description: A platform for homeschooling and self-directed learning resources. * Modulo’s WeFunder Campaign * Website: wefunder.com/modulo * Description: Invest in the future of education * Modulo Community Podcast * YouTube: Modulo Community Podcast * Description: A podcast exploring homeschooling, self-directed learning, and education innovation. Organizations and Programs * Connections Academy * Website: connectionsacademy.com * Description: One of the first online public schools co-founded by Mickey Revenaugh. * Stride and K12 * Website: stridelearning.com * Description: A leading provider of online education programs. * E-Rate Program * Website: fcc.gov/general/e-rate-schools-and-libraries-usf-program * Description: A program that provides discounts to assist schools and libraries in obtaining affordable telecommunications and internet access. * Vela Education Fund * Website: velaedfund.org * Description: A fund supporting innovative education entrepreneurs. * Black Microschool Network * Website: https://www.passnetwork.org/general-7 * Description: A network of microschools serving Black students with culturally resonant curriculum. * Johns Hopkins University Press * Website: press.jhu.edu * Description: The publisher of Mickey Revenaugh’s upcoming book. Relevant Modulo interviews and posts mentioned Rebecca Winthrop interview Self-directed learning Cognitive Diversity Nurturing Critical Thinkers Learning is Love Socialization Concepts and Movements * Microschools * Modulo Glossary: https://www.modulo.app/all-resources/microschools-an-overview * Description: Small, community-based learning environments. * Unschooling * Modulo Glossary: https://www.modulo.app/all-resources/unschooling * Description: A self-directed, interest-led approach to education. * Roadschooling * Modulo Glossary: https://www.modulo.app/all-resources/roadschooling * Description: Homeschooling while traveling, often in RVs. * Gameschooling * Modulo Glossary: https://www.modulo.app/all-resources/gameschooling * Description: Using games (board games, video games, etc.) as educational tools. * Montessori Education * Website: https://www.modulo.app/all-resources/montessori-education-an-overview * Description: An educational approach emphasizing self-directed learning. * Self-Directed Learning * Modulo Glossary: https://www.modulo.app/homeschool/self-directed-education * Description: An educational approach where learners take control of their own learning. * Worldschooling * Modulo Glossary: https://www.modulo.app/all-resources/worldschooling * Description: Educate your children while traveling the world experiencing different cultures and history. Books and Authors * Mickey Revenaugh’s Upcoming Book * Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press * Expected Release: Fall 2026 * Description: A book exploring the diversity of unconventional education models. * Marshall Rosenberg (Nonviolent Communication) * Book: Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life * Website: cnvc.org * Description: A framework for compassionate communication. People Mentioned * Rebecca Winthrop (Brookings Institution) * Profile: brookings.edu/experts/rebecca-winthrop * Description: A scholar specializing in education innovation. * Daniel McFarland (Stanford University) * Profile: ed.stanford.edu/faculty/mcfarland * Description: A researcher studying the network ecology of schools. Tools and Platforms * Blackboard * Website: blackboard.com * Description: A learning management system used in education. * Skype * Website: skype.com * Description: A platform for video calls and synchronous communication. * ChatGPT * Website: openai.com/chatgpt * Description: An AI tool for generating text and responses. Events and Conferences * Game Schooling Conference * Description: A conference focused on using games in education. * Learn more: gameschoolcon.com * Northeast Unschooling Conference (New England) * Description: A niche conference for unschooling families. * Learn more: North East Unschooling Conference or NEUC Other Resources * Moby Max * Website: mobymax.com * Description: An online math program for tracking student progress. * MAP Growth Test * Website: nwea.org/map-growth * Description: A test for measuring student growth. * Homeschool Boss * Website: https://homeschoolboss.com/ * Description: a company that administers the Map Growth test to homeschoolers. The Modulo Community is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit teachyourkids.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 16m
  6. 19/02/2025

    🚀 Building a new civilization for kids

    In this episode of the Modulo podcast, Manisha Snoyer, founder of Modulo, speaks with Ben Somers, founder of Recess, about the transformative potential of self-directed learning and games in education. Recess is an innovative educational platform designed to help kids design their own education through games, simulations, and real-world experience. Ben shares how Recess empowers kids by giving them autonomy in a virtual civilization where they can explore their passions, collaborate with peers, and learn through interactive games like Minecraft and custom-built simulations. The conversation highlights the cognitive benefits of skill-based, non-motor-dependent games and how gaming helped shape the entrepreneurial skills of leaders like Tobi Lütke (Shopify) and Reid Hoffman (LinkedIn). They discuss the growing homeschooling movement, the educational potential of AI, and the importance of centering children’s experiences in educational design. Ben also describes Recess’s innovative approach to math learning and their upcoming programs designed to engage kids with game-based learning while building critical skills. Watch it on YouTube Please remember to like, subscribe and comment to help Modulo reach more families! Ben and I will respond to every comment and question. Find Recess Sign up for Recess at Recess.gg Follow Ben Somers on Twitter/X @ben_m_somers Follow Recess on Instagram @tryrecess Learn More About Modulo Modulo is building a decentralized education system designed to replace outdated public schooling with modular learning—personalized, flexible, and accessible to all. By connecting families with top-tier tutors, classes, and educational tools, Modulo helps kids find the resources they need to thrive. 👉 Join us in shaping the future of education by supporting our campaign on WeFunder. Keywords Recess, education, child-centered learning, online classes, educational games, homeschooling, investment in education, collaboration, future of education, student engagement Takeaways * Recess aims to build a civilization for kids, focusing on real-world participation. * Children experience freedom and decision-making in their learning process at Recess. * The platform allows kids to design their own education based on their interests. * Games are evaluated for their educational value and cognitive development potential. * Education is a significant investment with the potential for high returns. * The shift towards consumer-driven education is changing the landscape of learning. * Collaboration among education entrepreneurs is essential for innovation in education. * The future of education may involve more personalized and flexible learning environments. * Identifying a child's passion can enhance their learning experience. * Parents should clarify their goals when considering alternative education options. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Recess and Its Vision 02:09 The Experience of Joining Recess 08:33 The Role of Freedom in Education 11:22 Game-Based Learning and Its Impact 22:04 The Investment Potential in Education 28:32 The Future of Education and Recess's Role 30:54 Rethinking Education: The Child as Consumer 34:08 The Philosophy of Learning: Obsession and Independence 38:44 Balancing Love and Expectations in Education 41:31 Collaboration vs Competition in Education 44:01 The Future of Education: A New Paradigm 47:19 Designing the Ideal Learning Day 49:40 Identifying the Ideal Student for Recess 51:49 Supporting Shy Kids in Education 54:44 Understanding the Pricing Model of Recess 58:06 Addressing the Gaps in Math Education 01:00:01 Exploring the Decision to Rethink Education 🚀 Join the movement Help Us Bring Innovative Education Entrepreneurship to More Families Recess is a prime example of the groundbreaking tools and ideas transforming education today. Through the Modulo podcast and platform, we’re helping more families discover innovative programs like Recess and connecting them with highly creative and inspiring thought leaders like Ben Somers—people who are redefining what learning can look like. 💡 Join us in this effort. Support Modulo’s growth by investing in our WeFunder campaign so we can continue to connect more families with innovative learning experiences and shape the future of education together. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit teachyourkids.substack.com/subscribe

    1h 2m

About

A weekly podcast about PreK-12th grade education, homeschooling and modular learning. teachyourkids.substack.com