Don’t let math define your entire self-worth w/ Shelby Strong

2026-01-15

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Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)Whenever Vanessa talks to math educator and coach Shelby Strong, they end up saying "why didn't we record that, it was basically a podcast!" So today we bring you an actual podcast with Shelby, exploring an absolutely bonkers range of provocative questions like:What’s the danger of defining your self-worth by being good at one thing?When does enthusiasm/passion cross the line into gatekeeping?Why are we vilifying algorithms right now?Why do we shame teachers for just trying their be...

Send us a text! (US messaging rates apply)

Whenever Vanessa talks to math educator and coach Shelby Strong, they end up saying "why didn't we record that, it was basically a podcast!" So today we bring you an actual podcast with Shelby, exploring an absolutely bonkers range of provocative questions like:

What’s the danger of defining your self-worth by being good at one thing?
When does enthusiasm/passion cross the line into gatekeeping?
Why are we vilifying algorithms right now?
Why do we shame teachers for just trying their best?
Why is systemic change so hard to enact and adapt to?
What does rock star Dave Grohl teach us about math?
And finally, is a hot dog a sandwich?!

If these question spark something in you, let us know below - and share this episode with someone else that needs to hear it!

Things mentioned:

A Mathematician's Lament by Paul Lockhart
Erdős number (the "6 degrees of Kevin Bacon" of math)

About Shelby: (Website, Bluesky, Facebook, LinkedIn)

Shelby Strong (Stronger Math) is a math educator and coach who believes math belongs to everyone. She has presented at school districts, regional organizations, and national conferences, including delivering an IGNITE at NCTM in 2024 called "Professional Development Doesn't Have to Suck".

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