In this episode of Lights, Camera, Learn, host Aaron Heinrich sits down with Ben Aston, founder and CEO of Black & White Zebra, to explore his journey from agency life to building one of the fastest-growing digital media companies in North America. Ben reflects on how his early experiences in digital project management shaped his approach to leadership, content creation, and entrepreneurship. He shares insights into how AI is positively transforming workflows across industries and why educators should shelve their trepidation and embrace—not resist—its potential in the classroom. Together, they discuss the importance of rethinking assignments, teaching problem-solving, and helping students navigate an AI-enhanced world with confidence. This thoughtful conversation offers practical perspectives for teachers, creators, and anyone interested in the future of work and learning.

In this episode, education reporter Savannah Kuchar shares her journey from college newsroom writer to covering schools and communities for Abridged, Sacramento’s new digital news outlet. She discusses what drew her to education reporting, the importance of curiosity, and the value of elevating real stories from parents, students, and teachers. Savannah also explores major issues shaping local schools—from AI adoption to budget challenges—and how she navigates complex topics with care. Her insights offer a grounded, thoughtful look at why education reporting matters and how it connects a community.

Filmmaker and industry leader Ri-Karlo Handy shares his remarkable journey from making music videos at the age of 14 to becoming a showrunner, network executive, and founder of the Handy Foundation. He reflects on the influence his mother played in starting and encouraging his passion for media, the mentors and peers who guided his growth, and the pivotal moments that shifted his career from music videos to television and film. Ri-Karlo offers an inside look at the differences between scripted and unscripted show running and reveals how creativity, collaboration, and resilience have defined his path. His insights provide a powerful lesson for young creators about building community, navigating challenges, and finding purpose in the evolving world of film and television and in life itself.

Alana Winnick—edtech director for a New York state school district, author of The Generative Age, and founder of Students for Innovation—shares how her unexpected journey from classroom teacher to technology leader shaped her mission to empower students. She explains how student-driven innovation and authentic learning experiences can transform classrooms and reduce barriers for both teachers and kids. Alana breaks down common misconceptions about AI, and how students can responsibly use AI without losing their creativity or curiosity. Her insights offer a practical, inspiring roadmap for integrating technology in ways that genuinely elevate teaching and learning.

Apprentice editor Rhian Advincula shares her journey from Elk Grove student to working on the Warner Bros.’ upcoming Green Lantern series. She talks about the power of networking, the mentors and organizations—like the Handy Foundation—that opened doors, and how she discovered her passion for editing. Rhian also explains the creative and technical balance required in post-production and what it takes to shape a story frame by frame. Her story offers an inspiring look at perseverance, the importance of community, and finding your place in the film industry.

Franklin High School senior and Wildcat TV co-producer, Pia Mañez shares how she juggles journalism, student leadership, sports team managing, and community reporting. Pia talks about her passion for elevating student voices through Sacramento School Beat, covering stories ranging from local animal shelters to girls’ sports. She also reflects on the challenges of producing a daily school newscast and what she’s learned about organization, collaboration, and using media to make a difference. Her journey highlights the power of student-driven storytelling—and the impact young journalists can make in their communities.

In this episode of Lights, Camera, Learn!, Trevor Harding, media teacher at Sunrise Elementary in the Elk Grove Unified School District, shares how a small classroom grant sparked his passion for media education and transformed his approach to teaching. He describes how his student-run news program, Spartan TV, engages elementary school learners in every aspect of production—from anchoring to camera operation—using a five-level system that rewards creativity and growth. Trevor also reflects on the joy of seeing his students’ work showcased in the SEVA Contest, produced by SECC, and the life skills they gain through collaboration, storytelling, and community engagement.

In this episode of Lights, Camera, Learn!, Molly Dugan, journalism professor at Sacramento State University, shares her journey from the Sacramento Bee newsroom to the college classroom, where she now inspires the next generation of storytellers and journalists. She discusses her signature courses like “War, Peace, and the Media,” exploring how journalists navigate truth, power, and conflict in a rapidly changing information landscape. Dugan also reflects on teaching media literacy in an era of misinformation and the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and humility in both consuming and creating media.