What if students didn’t just do the work—but truly wanted to learn? In this powerful episode of American Classroom, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland sit down with educator and author Dave Stuart Jr. to unpack his book The Will to Learn and explore what it really means to cultivate student motivation. Joined by Heritage Academy principal Kathleen Lopez, they dive into practical, research-backed strategies for helping students find intrinsic value in learning—and why external rewards like grades aren’t enough.
From “moments of genuine connection” to the “rainbow of why,” Dave shares methods that help both teachers and parents create classrooms (and homes) where students feel seen, valued, and empowered to grow. Whether you’re a veteran educator, a school leader, or a parent trying to inspire a reluctant learner, this episode will leave you rethinking motivation—and believing that every student can grow a love for learning.
Show Notes:
If you want to learn more about the American Classroom podcast, please visit AmericanClassroom.Show.
Dave Stuart Jr.’s “Will to Learn” can be found here at Amazon or on Barnes and Noble.
Dave’s website – davestuartjr.co
In this episode, we sit down with artist and educator Ben Sowards to explore what it means to grow into the kind of creator only you can become. As a designer for the U.S. Mint, Sowards has created coins and medals for the Bush, Reagan, and Trump families, and his...
What if economics class could teach students how to live with purpose—not just how markets work? In this episode of American Classroom, Kerry Montano from the University of Arizona introduces a groundbreaking dual enrollment course that’s transforming how high school...
What does it really mean to be a gifted learner—and how can schools support students who think differently? In this episode of American Classroom, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland sit down with Dr. Janelle Emory, founder of the Gifted and Talented program at...