The Middle School Maker (Student Voices, Part 2)

16 Apr 2026
Linda DeYounge
Linda DeYounge
Program Manager of Online Learning, Learning Technology Center

Video Episode

Watch or listen to the full episode on YouTube or Spotify →

Episode Notes

How does a broken shoe strap turn into a thriving small business? Today’s student and his teacher can tell you – it starts with a little curiosity and a Croc-full of creativity.

In this second part of our Student Voices special, we’re shifting our focus to the entrepreneurial side of student tech, and one student who isn’t waiting for the future to build his own opportunities. You’ll hear from eighth-grader Blake about launching his Etsy shop, Blake’s Thingamajigs, and his experience becoming a young 3D printing pro through inspiration and experimentation. Blake also shares how he lead his school’s weekly PantherCast broadcast club, and the experience of producing a ghostly film, from first fright to theater premier.

Listen in as we explore how students are using technology to connect with their communities and turn what they love into something that matters.

Read the Transcript

Transcripts are generated using a combination of speech recognition software and human transcribers, and may contain errors.

Please check the corresponding audio before quoting.

Read transcript→

Interview Guests

A special thank you to Blake, his family, and Ms. Katie Dollahon for sharing their story and inspiring the next generation of creators.

Don’t Miss a New Episode

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcatcher to hear every new episode as soon as it’s released.

Linda DeYounge
Linda DeYounge
Program Manager of Online Learning, Learning Technology Center

Linda designs, develops, and evaluates the LTC’s digital professional learning, including working with subject matter experts to create learning objectives, conducting needs assessments, and delivering interactive online PD opportunities.