Podcast Hosted by Ron Martiello

Description

Ron Martiello introduces his podcast, “Math Universally Speaking,” aimed at making math classrooms more inclusive. He shares his personal journey from loving math in grade school to losing interest due to a shift in teaching methods. Ron emphasizes the importance of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and inclusive teaching practices to make rigorous math accessible to all students. The podcast will feature strategies, success stories, and discussions on inclusive math education.

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Transcript

Hi, everyone, and welcome to Math Universally Speaking! I’m Ron Martiello, and I’m so glad you’re here.

This podcast is a space to explore how we can make math classrooms more inclusive—places where every student feels seen, supported, and capable of doing rigorous mathematics. Whether you’re an educator, a school leader, or just someone passionate about equitable instruction, this community is for you.

My journey in math has been filled with ups and downs, just like yours. As a student in grade school, I loved math. I approached each day with confidence, hoping to be the last one standing in one of my favorite games, Math Knockout—a game where the champion earned a sticker to wear proudly on their school uniform tie. My tie was covered with stickers, each one a little symbol of victory.

But in fifth grade, everything changed. Some of my classmates moved into higher-level math classes while I remained in the on-level class. The engaging games were replaced by drills and rote practice. My love for math faded, and by the time I reached high school and college, math had become something to endure rather than enjoy.

It wasn’t until I became a teacher that my passion for math was rekindled. I learned that math isn’t just about getting the right answer—it’s about exploring patterns, making connections, and empowering students to find multiple pathways to understanding. That shift in mindset transformed not only my teaching but also how I saw potential in every student.

I am also one of the co-authors of Conquering Math Myths with Universal Design: An Inclusive Approach to Instruction, K-8, written with my co-author and friend, Dr. Jenna Rufo of empowrEd. Together, we provide strategies to make rigorous math accessible to all students, breaking down barriers through the lens of Universal Design for Learning.

Math Universally Speaking is a space where we explore Universal Design for Learning, inclusive teaching practices, and ways to break down barriers so that every student can thrive in math. This podcast is all about building community—one where we share research-based strategies, celebrate teacher success stories, and have conversations that inspire inclusive math classrooms. I believe math should be an accelerator for opportunity, not a gatekeeper subject.

Episodes will range from quick five-minute insights to longer conversations—up to 30 minutes—when we bring on special guests. Whether you’re looking for a quick strategy to try tomorrow or a deep dive into inclusive teaching practices, this podcast will offer ideas you can use right away.

I’d love for this podcast to spark conversations and collaboration. You can connect with me on LinkedIn—just search for Ron Martiello—and join the conversation on Bluesky using the hashtag #MathUniversallySpeaking. Let’s share ideas, celebrate successes, and inspire each other to create math classrooms where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Thank you for being here at the start of this adventure. Let’s champion inclusive math, unlock universal opportunities, and celebrate the endless potential in every child. I can’t wait to share this space with you.

Take care!

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