Confluence Conversations

Overview:
In this episode of Confluence Conversations, host Haley Brueck sits down with Dr. Ava Smith, an influential educator and community advocate, to discuss her journey in shaping equitable opportunities for students. Dr. Smith shares her perspective on leadership in education, the importance of mentorship, and the power of creating learning environments where every student can thrive.

What Listeners Can Expect:

• Insightf...

In 2022, educators across St. Louis launched Educators for Gun Safety (EGS) in response to rising youth gun violence. Supported by the Mayor’s Office, the St. Louis Board of Mental Health, SLMPD, and Women’s Voices Raised for Social Justice, EGS focuses on proactive education, awareness, and free gun lock distribution to help save lives.

At the center of the work are the EGS Student Ambassadors—leaders from Confluence Preparatory Ac...

This episode explores how Ranken Technical College prepares students for high-demand, high-wage careers through hands-on learning, industry-aligned programs, and comprehensive student support. We’ll highlight the pathways Ranken creates—from dual credit and early college to apprenticeships and employer partnerships—and how Student Success initiatives help learners persist, complete, and thrive.

Crystal Herron, Vice President for Stu...

This episode explores how 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis goes beyond hospitality to serve as a cultural and community hub in the heart of downtown. With a contemporary art museum, locally inspired dining, and inclusive community programming, 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis is redefining what a hotel can be.

Joining us is Christopher Randall, Director of Community Impact for 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis, to discuss how the hotel fosters partner...

This episode features Dr. Terrance Peterson, an experienced educator, certified administrator, and life coach with over 30 years of experience helping individuals and organizations set and achieve positive goals for change. Dr. Peterson’s work spans trauma recovery, stress management, team building, equity practices, family dynamics, and conflict resolution. He has presented both locally and nationally on creating institutional cha...

This episode spotlights Ready Readers, a St. Louis nonprofit dedicated to inspiring a love of reading and strengthening early literacy through classroom read-alouds, high-quality books, educator support, and family engagement.

Guests Maggie Strube, Lauren Campbell, and Erin Fisher share how Ready Readers partners with early childhood centers and elementary schools, mobilizes trained volunteers, and collaborates with educators and fa...

Host: Haley Brueck
Guest: Dr. Ava Smith

Overview:
In this episode of Confluence Conversations, host Haley Brueck speaks with Dr. Ava Smith, an educational leader and innovator, about how podcasts are transforming classroom engagement and student learning. Dr. Smith shares how educators can integrate podcasting into the curriculum to inspire creativity, develop communication skills, and connect lessons to real-world experienc...

Columbia Public Schools (CPS) is committed to providing students with transformative learning experiences—both inside and outside the classroom. Through CPS Online and MOCAP, students have access to flexible, personalized learning opportunities that meet diverse needs and prepare them for success. In this episode, we highlight CPS as an expert voice on online education, exploring both the advantages and the challenges of virtual le...

The Fabulous Fox Theatre is proud to offer Educational Encores, a signature post-show opportunity designed to deepen the theatrical experience for student groups. These sessions provide students the unique chance to engage directly with members of the cast and crew from Broadway touring productions. Through thoughtful dialogue and behind-the-scenes insights, students gain a greater appreciation for the performing arts and the work ...

Mr. Lennox Forrester leads the O’Fallon Park Rec Complex YMCA and has played a vital role in expanding youth access to swimming, fitness, and life-saving skills across the St. Louis community.

For several years, Confluence Academy’s Old North and South City students have participated in swimming lessons through the Summer Journey program at this YMCA location. These lessons are more than recreational—they teach critical safety skill...

In this powerful episode of Confluence Conversations, host Haley Brueck sits down with Julius B. Anthony, Founder of The Believe Projects™, to explore how joyful and inclusive literacy experiences can radically transform a child’s relationship with reading.

Recorded in person at Confluence Academy, this conversation unpacks how culturally responsive books, music, art, and media can empower children—especially those from marginalized...

This episode explores The Sophia Project, a transformative initiative dedicated to empowering girls through a holistic, trauma-informed model that fosters academic achievement, emotional wellness, and leadership development. The Sophia Project provides a safe and nurturing space for girls to thrive through consistent mentorship, restorative practices, and community-based support system.

Our guest will share how the organization is e...

This episode highlights the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis’s Save Our Sons (SOS) program, a transformative initiative designed to empower economically disadvantaged men by helping them secure stable, well-paying employment. Through job readiness training, mentorship, financial literacy, and access to employer networks, SOS is creating meaningful pathways to long-term success and breaking cycles of poverty.

Joining us is Tydr...

This episode of Confluence Conversations delves into STLCC’s TRIO program, a federally funded initiative designed to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds in achieving academic success. Host Christopher C. Miller will be joined by Laura Modrcin, Manager of TRIO, to discuss the program’s mission, the impact it has on students, and the vital academic, financial, and career resources it provides.

Confluence Conversations is a...

Confluence Conversations is a podcast dedicated to insightful discussions about education, community, and the pressing issues shaping our schools and society. Each episode is hosted by a different educator, expert, or advocate, bringing unique perspectives to critical topics that impact learning environments, student safety, and public policy. Through engaging conversations, we aim to highlight challenges, share innovative solution...