For my capstone, I created a podcast with a few SLA staff members to learn more about them as people and to emphasize the importance of a teacher and student relationship. My final product is two video podcast episodes. However, they were derailed a little due to me testing positive for COVID last week. I recorded two episodes, one with Mr. Lehmann and one with Ms. Gasser. My goal was to be able to learn more about their story and who they are beyond the classroom. The bonds that I have created with teachers are so special that I wanted to be able to show them through this podcast. I want to show how SLA is able to give students such a special space to be able to connect and feel comfortable with the teachers and staff. I want this to be able to be listened to by students, parents, alumni, and prospective students.

Below is my annotated bibliography, some pictures from recording the episodes, and the 2 official episodes of Teacher Talks!

I hope you enjoy!!

Thank you!!

— Max Blakelock

The Hirondelle Podcast

By: Max Blakelock, Solomon Stone, Iris Peron-Ames, and Lorna Elliott

Book: The Color Of Water

Author: James McBride

Through this podcast, we explored the book, The Color of Water, by James McBride. The memoir details both the lives of James McBride and his mother, and focuses on the ways his mother’s story and identity influenced his own. This podcast was designed to create an in-depth conversation analysing the structural and stylistic choices made by McBride, as well as how those decisions brought the novel to life. We chose to look at certain elements, such as the title, character development, structure, parallels, and themes, and connect it back to the impact of the story and our own lives. Join us throughout our exploration, and discover just how James McBride’s powerful storytelling brings The Color of Water to life.