Episode 13 with Rainesford Alexandra

Today's guest is Rainesford Alexandra. She is a writer and education activist who believes learning should be creative and synonymous with “hope” — not just something out of a textbook. She is a DIY learner who is starting to make an impact in the world of education, by example and by her writing and speeches. She was recently named to the Advisory Board for SXSWedu. After trading the Dean’s List for a gap year, Rainesford spent time out of school publishing writing with The Huffington Post, Zouch Magazine, and UnCollege.org. Combining her love of writing and background in ballet, she founded an ongoing interview series with up-and-coming artists, The Young Artist Feature, and writes a monthly column for one of the world’s most prominent dance brands, Russian Pointe. Additionally, Rainesford co-founded a community yoga studio and, meshing her passions for story-telling and social good, works in media for nonprofits. In November 2014, she spoke at TEDxYouth Kansas City, and gave a talk at TEDx Eastside Prep in Seattle in March 2015. In this episode, Rainesford talks about her gap year, her philosophies about learning, and she believes that learning is not just a “school thing” but a “life thing.” Find out how she and I have Montessori in common, and get ready to be inspired by this amazing young woman. Ultimately, Rainesford wants to leave the world—and education—a little better than she found it. You can catch her on Twitter: @Rainesford.