Forget What You Learned: Reimagining Education for Today's Families

Pacific Preparatory

Forget What You Learned is a place for families to thoughtfully evaluate the contemporary educational landscape. We empower you to challenge your own thinking and the status quo of today’s traditional school system, and ask the question: are my kids thriving? Host Cory Greenberg chats with innovators, experts and other parents who are changing the conversation, inspiring families to reimagine what educational success looks like today. Brought to you by Pacific Preparatory.

  1. Elizabeth Hamblet Asks: Do Accommodations at the College Level Actually Lead to Better Outcomes?

    11/12/2025

    Elizabeth Hamblet Asks: Do Accommodations at the College Level Actually Lead to Better Outcomes?

    In this episode, Cory and Elizabeth Hamblett dive into what students with learning differences really need to succeed in college—and it’s not just accommodations. They unpack the shift from high school support systems to college expectations, highlighting the importance of self-advocacy, emotional resilience, and true independence. Elizabeth challenges the idea that more support is always better, urging families to focus on skill-building, not just paperwork. Brought to you by Pacific Preparatory. Full episode notes available at www.pacificpreparatory.org.

    42 min
  2. How to Embrace AI While Preserving the Humanity of Teaching with Carl Hooker

    10/20/2025

    How to Embrace AI While Preserving the Humanity of Teaching with Carl Hooker

    In this episode, Cory and educator Carl Hooker dive into the fast-moving world of AI and what it really means for the future of learning. Far from sounding the alarm, they explore how AI can enhance creativity, personalize education, and help students think more critically—not less. Carl shares practical ways teachers can bring AI into the classroom without losing what matters most: human connection. They talk about scaffolding, rethinking assessments, and why failure is essential for growth. From college applications to classroom equity, this conversation challenges old assumptions and reimagines what teaching—and learning—can look like in the age of AI. Brought to you by Pacific Preparatory. Full episode notes available at www.pacificpreparatory.org.

    37 min
  3. Breaking Down the Modern Homeschooling Landscape with Vida Mercer

    10/12/2025

    Breaking Down the Modern Homeschooling Landscape with Vida Mercer

    In this episode, Cory sits down with Vida Mercer to break down what modern homeschooling really looks like—and it’s far from one-size-fits-all. They unpack common myths, explore the challenges and freedoms of unschooling, and dive into how educational trauma shapes families' choices. Vida, a second-generation homeschooler and education consultant, shares why the parent-child relationship is at the heart of a thriving homeschool experience. From trusting the learning process to preparing for college and life beyond the classroom, this conversation is a fresh, empowering look at how families are redefining education on their own terms. Brought to you by Pacific Preparatory. Full episode notes available at www.pacificpreparatory.org.

    39 min
  4. Jess Chermak Gives the Inside Scoop About AP Classes and College Admissions

    09/29/2025

    Jess Chermak Gives the Inside Scoop About AP Classes and College Admissions

    In this episode, Cory and college admissions expert Jess Chermak unpack the high-stress world of high school course selection and the myths surrounding AP overload. They explore why students don’t need to take every advanced class to impress colleges—and how chasing perfection can backfire. From the politics of AP credits to the value of authenticity in applications, Jess shares how students can craft a meaningful academic path that reflects who they are, not just what looks good on paper. It's a conversation about letting go of pressure and leaning into purpose. Brought to you by Pacific Preparatory. Full episode notes available at www.pacificpreparatory.org.

    42 min
  5. Ellen Braaten on What Demotivated Kids are Actually Saying

    09/22/2025

    Ellen Braaten on What Demotivated Kids are Actually Saying

    In this episode, Dr. Ellen Bratton discusses the growing issue of low motivation in children, exploring its causes and implications. She emphasizes the importance of balancing aptitude and pleasure in children's activities, the impact of societal pressures, and the role of parents in fostering motivation. The conversation covers various aspects, including sports, academics, screen time, and the need for open communication between parents and children. Dr. Bratton provides practical strategies for parents to support their children's motivation and well-being. Brought to you by Pacific Preparatory. Full episode notes available at www.pacificpreparatory.org.

    34 min
  6. Parenting Through Crisis: Making Peace with Therapeutic Placement Decisions with Jennifer Taylor

    09/15/2025

    Parenting Through Crisis: Making Peace with Therapeutic Placement Decisions with Jennifer Taylor

    In this conversation, education consultant Jennifer Taylor discusses the complexities of deciding on out-of-home therapeutic placements for children facing mental health challenges. Drawing from her personal and professional experiences, she addresses the stigma surrounding these decisions, the evolution of treatment programs, and the importance of family involvement in the therapeutic process. Jennifer emphasizes the need for parents to recognize when they have exhausted their options and the significance of innovative support systems that can aid in the transition back home. The discussion also highlights the importance of curiosity in parenting, encouraging parents to approach difficult conversations with understanding rather than judgment. Brought to you by Pacific Preparatory. Full episode notes available at www.pacificpreparatory.org.

    41 min
  7. Navigating the Maze of Educational Testing with Jana Parker

    09/08/2025

    Navigating the Maze of Educational Testing with Jana Parker

    In this conversation, Cory and Jana Parker explore the complexities of educational testing for children, focusing on the differences between various types of evaluations, the role of schools and pediatricians in the assessment process, and the importance of understanding diagnoses. They discuss how parents can navigate the system to get the best support for their children, the implications of labels, and the need for comprehensive evaluations to ensure appropriate interventions. In this conversation, Jana Parker discusses the complexities of evaluating anxiety in children, the fluidity of diagnoses, and the impact of these diagnoses on identity. She emphasizes the importance of ongoing support and the need for tailored educational recommendations. The discussion also touches on outdated beliefs in education, particularly regarding dyslexia, and the significance of clear communication between parents and schools. Brought to you by Pacific Preparatory. Full episode notes available at www.pacificpreparatory.org.

    52 min
  8. Susie Chau Embraces Travel as a Life-Changing Education Experience for Families

    09/01/2025

    Susie Chau Embraces Travel as a Life-Changing Education Experience for Families

    In this conversation, travel expert Susie Chow discusses the transformative power of long-term travel for families, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning and cultural exposure. She shares her personal journey from a conventional career to founding her travel business, highlighting how travel can foster personal growth and empathy in children. The discussion covers practical aspects of planning extended travel, including educational options, overcoming common obstacles, and the growing trend of families considering international relocation. Susie encourages families to take small steps towards travel, suggesting that even a month-long trip can provide valuable insights and experiences. Brought to you by Pacific Preparatory. Full episode notes available at www.pacificpreparatory.org.

    46 min
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Forget What You Learned is a place for families to thoughtfully evaluate the contemporary educational landscape. We empower you to challenge your own thinking and the status quo of today’s traditional school system, and ask the question: are my kids thriving? Host Cory Greenberg chats with innovators, experts and other parents who are changing the conversation, inspiring families to reimagine what educational success looks like today. Brought to you by Pacific Preparatory.

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