An MHS Podcast Teaches Life Skills

INTERVIEW WITH KRISTINA HOLNESS

Sometimes innovation in education starts with a generous teacher willing to give up their prep period and a single “what if?” moment. Meet "The Millburn Morning Show," a student-driven Millburn High School (MHS) podcast where neurodiverse students build essential skills like communication and community navigation. Kristina Holness, the 21st Century Living Skills teacher behind the project, talked with us about happy accidents, saying yes, and why watching students see themselves as creators might just be the point of education.

What sparked the idea for The Millburn Morning Show?
A desire to give students a platform where their voices could be heard and celebrated. When I saw the studio, I immediately thought, “My students can do this—they should be part of something creative, public, and empowering.” That belief became the foundation of our show. Students now alternate between recording cooking segments and podcast episodes. These experiences offer meaningful growth. Students learn communication skills, teamwork, sequencing, problem-solving, and digital literacy. They also build confidence as they take creative risks, interview guests, and watch their work evolve into polished final videos.

Where is the studio located, and how do you choose topics?
We record in the Digital Production Podcast Studio, called Studio 462, located inside MHS. We aim for a mix of themes like cooking, school events, and celebrations, balanced with student-led niche interests like gaming or sports. We are in the first academic year of bringing this to fruition with this class. The guiding question is, “Will this encourage students to express themselves authentically?”

Could you walk us through a typical episode?
It begins with brainstorming, then script drafting or question writing. Students rehearse, record in the studio, and help review the footage. My favorite part is the moment they put the headphones on and suddenly transform—they sit taller, smile wider, and step into their role with pride.

How do you help students overcome challenges?
The most challenging part is speaking clearly and confidently into a microphone. To support them, we practice with warmups, breathing exercises, and low-stakes conversations to build comfort and familiarity. Because my students are at varying levels of communication, I make it a priority to involve everyone in ways that feel meaningful, allowing each student to participate in a manner that boosts their confidence and pride.

What is an episode that you’re most proud of?
Our cooking segment on making banana bread. The students measured, mixed, narrated, reacted, and problem-solved on camera. Seeing their excitement and all the impromptu moments made my day. For example, my student Oliver went directly in front of the camera to name our “secret ingredient”—it showed so much of his personality when the final edited video played. Hearing them say, “Wow, we did that!” was unforgettable.

How do you measure success?
Success for us isn’t downloads—it’s growth. It’s when a student becomes more confident, asks a thoughtful question, or beams with pride when watching themselves on screen. Those are the wins we cherish.

Who is your typical listener, and how do you reach non-podcast fans?
Our listeners are students, staff, and families who enjoy celebrating student creativity. To reach new audiences, we keep episodes short, fun, and visually engaging—especially through cooking and behind-the-scenes content.

What misconception about student podcasts would you like to debunk?
That they’re “just for fun.” In reality, student podcasts are powerful literacy tools—they teach communication, planning, expression, digital production, and social-emotional growth. The learning behind each episode runs deep.

What is your favorite behind-the-scenes podcast moment?
Any time the students see themselves on camera for the first time. The room fills with laughter, cheering, and pure joy.