More Than a Podcast. A Platform for Student Voices.
The STEAM Box RI podcast is more than a series of conversations—it's an opportunity for young people to discover the power of their own voice.
Students don't simply participate in interviews. They research topics, develop questions, operate professional equipment, produce episodes, tell meaningful stories, and engage with leaders from across education, business, government, and the community.
Along the way, they develop communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership skills that prepare them for success far beyond the recording studio.
Student-Led From
Start To Finish
Every episode is an opportunity for students to take ownership of the creative process.
Participants are involved in every stage of production, including:
- Topic development
- Research
- Guest preparation
- Interviewing
- Audio production
- Editing
- Publishing
- Promotion
By taking responsibility for the finished product, students gain valuable technical skills while learning the importance of preparation, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.
STEAM Box vs
Latest Episodes
STEAM Box youth take on the world and this is where we discuss throughout the school year. Check out our Mangu con Salami special in February where youth discuss healthy relationships. Check out our Joyful Rebellion series in May where our youth innovate mental wellness.
In this live episode of the STEAM Box vs Podcast, Highlander Charter School Superintendent Simona Simpson-Thomas is joined by student moderators Leanne (12th grade), Ariel (10th grade), and Favor (11th grade). Centered around the visual theme “Who Are We Right Now?” and the core value “Students First, ALWAYS,” the panel addresses real questions submitted directly by the student body.
The unfiltered conversation addresses key transitions across the school: the upcoming facility move from Warren back to Providence , the new state cell phone lock box policy, and elevated academic expectations driven by charter renewal pressures. Superintendent Simpson-Thomas speaks openly about expanding faculty diversity through Highlander’s Educator Pathway program, strengthening mental health supports through Beyond the Bell and student-led initiatives like Joyful Rebellion, and empowering student voice and advocacy.
#HighlanderCharterSchool #StudentVoice #StudentsFirst #SteamboxPodcast #SimonaSimpsonThomas #EducatorPathway#YouthLeadership #RhodeIslandEducation #SchoolTransition #JoyfulRebellion
Conversations That Matter
The STEAM Box RI podcast explores topics that are relevant to young people and the communities they serve.
Episodes feature conversations with educators, innovators, entrepreneurs, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, artists, and students who are making a positive difference.
Together, these discussions encourage curiosity, inspire new ideas, and demonstrate what's possible when young people are given opportunities to learn directly from real-world experiences.
Recognized Around the World
The STEAM Box RI podcast has earned national and international recognition for its innovative approach to youth-led storytelling and education.
Its success reflects not only the quality of the conversations, but the dedication, creativity, and leadership demonstrated by the students who produce every episode.
While awards and rankings are meaningful milestones, the greatest achievement is helping young people develop the confidence to share their ideas and contribute their voices to important conversations.
Listen to the Latest Episodes
Whether you're a student, educator, parent, community partner, or supporter, we invite you to explore the conversations that continue to inspire learning, creativity, and leadership.
Every episode reflects the curiosity, talent, and determination of the young people who make STEAM Box RI such an extraordinary community.