Stang Stories

Welcome to this inspiring episode of the Stang Stories podcast! Ladia Khaing sits down with Jamie Mittelman, a Milton alumna and CEO of Flamebearers, a platform dedicated to uplifting the stories of female Olympians and Paralympians. Jamie shares insights from her time at Milton, her eclectic educational and professional journey, and her ardent passion for advocating women's stories in sports media. Discover how Jamie went from participating in a multitude of extracurricular activities at Milton, to earning advanced degrees from prestigious institutions, and eventually finding her calling in supporting women athletes globally. She discusses the challenges and adversities faced in promoting women's sports and the transformative power of storytelling in making real-world impacts. Join us for a conversation that celebrates resilience, inspiration, and the drive to make a positive change in the world through the power of storytelling and advocacy.

In this episode of the Sting Stories podcast, host Jazlyn Fuentes '25 converses with Dr. Alexandra Rodman, a distinguished alumna from Milton's class of '06 and a psychology professor at Northeastern University. Dr. Rodman shares insights about her transformative experiences at Milton, including her involvement in boarding life and the Octet music group, which paved her path toward acapella in college. Dr. Rodman discusses her academic journey from Tufts University to obtaining a PhD at Harvard, emphasizing the importance of balancing academics with extracurricular activities. She highlights her passion for clinical psychology and developmental cognitive neuroscience, exploring the intersection of social experiences and brain development during adolescence in her present research. Through anecdotal experiences and advice, Dr. Rodman reflects on key learnings throughout her career, providing valuable insights for aspiring students and professionals in psychology and neuroscience. The conversation also delves into developmental phases, the importance of resilience, and emerging research on adolescent smartphone use.

In this episode of the Stang Stories podcast, Jason Yu '25 chats with Dr. Annie LaVigne '07, a current instructor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. There, LaVigne focuses on intersecting the health humanities with radiation oncology, bringing humanism to the center of the medical field. Learn about LaVigne's daring cross-country biking treks, swims with sharks in South Africa, and current research on radiotherapy deserts. (And of course, her art!) 

In this episode of Stang Stories Podcast, Ladia Khaing '25 sits down with Maggie Jackson, a distinguished non-fiction author and Milton alumna from the class of 1978. Maggie shares her transformative experiences at Milton and how they laid the foundation for her illustrious career as a journalist and author. Delve into Maggie's journey from her early days at Milton, where she honed her skills in journalism and theater, to her academic pursuits at Yale and the London School of Economics. Maggie discusses how her diverse experiences have shaped her perspective and driven her to explore the complex theme of uncertainty in her latest book, "Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure." Maggie offers insights into the power of uncertainty, emphasizing its role in enhancing creativity, adaptability, and resilience in our rapidly changing world. She also shares practical advice on how to cultivate a positive relationship with uncertainty, especially in the age of AI and technology, to unlock our potential as lifelong learners and thinkers. Join us for an inspiring conversation that challenges conventional wisdom and invites listeners to embrace the unknown as a pathway to growth and discovery.

In this captivating episode, Oliver Sin sits down with Mr. Rod Skinner '72, a distinguished alumnus of Milton Academy's class of 1972 and the Dean of College Counseling from 1999 to 2023. Mr. Skinner shares his unique experiences as a student during the Vietnam War era, shedding light on the anti-war protests that marked his high school years. The conversation delves into the historical context of Milton Academy, contrasting the institution's past and present. Mr. Skinner recounts his journey from Milton to Harvard University, highlighting the influences that shaped his academic pursuits and career choices. He offers invaluable advice for current students, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, resilience, and maintaining a sense of purpose. Join us for an insightful discussion that explores the evolution of education, the impact of historical events on personal growth, and the timeless values that continue to define Milton Academy.

In this episode of Stang Stories, Jason Yu '25 interviews Louis Demetroulakos '15, the Strategic Alliances Director at Playroll, a company dedicated to facilitating global expansion for businesses. Louis, who served as Head Monitor during his senior year, shares his journey through Milton, NYU, Shanghai, and various other cities worldwide, highlighting the cultural awakenings he experienced along the way. As a new school year approaches, in true head monitor fashion, Louis offers valuable advice for new Milton students. New students—this episode is for you!

In this episode of Stang Stories, Diane Asiedu interviews Claire Cheney ‘02, founder of Curio Spice. Claire shares her passion for spices with audience members and reveals how Milton influenced her journey to finding happiness and success in her professional life. 

In this episode of Stang Stories, Diane Asiedu '24 speaks with Teddy Ellis '22 on his Milton journey, Stang Stories inspiration, and Princeton experiences. 

In this episode of Stang Stories, Diane Asiedu '24 engages with Daniel Kim '09, former Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officer and current Technical Team Lead at Deloitte. Daniel shares his incredible journey from the halls of Milton to the high-stakes world of military bomb disposal and now to leading technical teams at Deloitte. He discusses the skills and values instilled in him at Milton that have been pivotal throughout his diverse career. Daniel offers a unique perspective on transitioning from military to corporate life and the innovative strategies he employs at Deloitte.

In this episode of Stang Stories, Diane Asiedu '24 converses with Eskor Johnson '07, an accomplished English teacher and author of the compelling novel PAY AS YOU GO. Eskor reflects on his experiences at Milton and how they ignited his passion for literature and teaching. He shares his journey from student to educator, discussing the inspiration behind his book and the impact he hopes to make through his writing and teaching. Eskor offers insights into the creative process, the challenges of balancing multiple roles, and the values that guide his work in shaping young minds and telling powerful stories. Join us as we explore the intersection of education, creativity, and storytelling with Eskor Johnson.

In this episode of Stang Stories, Diane Asiedu '24 interviews Maximos Nikitas '13, a current judicial law clerk for the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Maximos reflects on his formative years at Milton, where the rigorous academic environment and supportive community laid the groundwork for his legal aspirations. He delves into the complexities of the legal system and the invaluable experiences that have shaped his career. Join us as Maximos reflects on his legal ventures and the principles guiding his work in pursuing justice.

In this episode of Stang Stories, Diane Asiedu '24 sits down with Kurt Collins '97, the visionary Founder of #! Shebang is a true jack of all trades in the world of innovation. Kurt delves into his remarkable journey from an aspiring entrepreneur to a pioneer of groundbreaking solutions for some of today's most challenging problems. He reveals the challenges he faces, his strategies, and the rewarding moments that come with pushing the envelope. 

In this episode of Stang Stories, Diane Asiedu '24 interviews Samantha Barkowski, the dynamic Senior Vice President of Strategy & Growth at Fenway Sports Group (FSG). Samantha shares insights from her impressive journey from a fan ambassador at Fenway Park to a key figure in FSG's major sports and entertainment deals. Samantha reveals her work's complexities, her career's evolution, and the innovative growth strategies shaping the future of FSG. She also reflects on the challenges and triumphs of navigating the sports business landscape, offering a glimpse into the principles and values that drive her success!

In this episode of Stang Stories, Diane Asiedu '24 interviews Dr. Alixe Callen '88, the 13th  Head of School at Milton Academy. Dr. Callen shares insights from her extensive career in education, her journey to becoming a leader at Milton, and her vision for the future of thought leadership at Milton Academy. This conversation delves into her educational background, the challenges and rewards of leading a prestigious institution, and her commitment to harnessing community as a tool for success. Dr. Callen also reflects on her personal experiences, providing a deeper understanding of the values and principles that guide her leadership. Tune in for an inspiring discussion with one of the most influential figures at Milton today!

In this episode of Stang Stories, Cooper Love '24 and Henry Ladd '25 interview Neha Wadekar '07 about her time at Milton and USC; her experience starting out as an independent journalist in Kenya; her process of pitching, researching, and writing stories; and her experience covering the intersections of climate, gender, health, human rights, emerging democracies, and politics.

In this episode of Stang Stories, Teddy Ellis '22 interviews Dr. Sam Myers '83 about his time at Milton, Harvard, Yale, and UCSF; his experience helping create the Qomolangma National Nature Preserve in Tibet; his perspective on environmental issues and climate change; and his experience helping to establish the field of planetary health.

In this episode of Stang Stories, Katia Mikhailova '22 and Elodie Root '22 interview former journalist Will Connors '00 about his time at Milton and the University of Chicago; his experience as a foreign correspondent in Ethiopia, Nigeria, Canada, Brazil, and the US; and his perspective on the importance of travel.

In this episode of Stang Stories, Diane Asiedu '24 and Aoidín Salmon '22 interview Farah Pandith '86 about her time at Milton, Smith College, and the Fletcher School at Tufts University; experience serving in the George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama administrations; work as the first-ever Special Representative to Muslim Communities; and perspective on the state of extremism and counterterrorism today.

In this episode of Stang Stories, Liam Kralik '24 and Bryan Sukidi '24 interview journalist Amy Kaufman '04 about her time at Milton (0:46) and the University of Southern California (5:23), her introduction to professional journalism (9:08), her work covering entertainment and culture for the Los Angeles Times (14:23), and experience writing her New York Times Best Seller, Bachelor Nation (18:24), and shining a light on sexual harassment in Hollywood (21:36). (Image source: The Los Angeles Times)

In this episode of Stang Stories, professor Edward Cunningham '94 discusses his time at Milton (0:50), Georgetown and Peking University(8:10), Harvard (14:42), and MIT and Tsinghua University (17:17); his work in energy and environmental markets, Chinese political economy, and trade (20:53); while offering perspective on China's potential hegemonic intentions (21:41), his study of Chinese public opinion (24:38), and China's energy policy (28:06). (Image source: Harvard's Ash Center)

In this episode of Stang Stories, Nancy Jiang '22 interviews Sid Raju '12 about his time at Milton (0:42) and Emory (4:29), path to finding quantitative biology (6:27), experience at Harvard Medical School (15:12), Covid-19 research at the Broad Institute (17:25), and work with single-cell genomics (18:55).

In this episode of Stang Stories, journalist Fred Melo ’94 discusses his time at Milton (0:51), City Year (4:40), and Brown (6:47); career beginnings in local journalism (8:40); coverage of a Ponzi scheme that landed him a $2 million lawsuit (13:53); and experience in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death in St. Paul and Minneapolis (20:42). (Image source: Milton Magazine // Marisa Donelan)

In this episode of Stang Stories, Rev. Dr. Chloe Breyer '87 discusses her time at Milton (0:56), Harvard (3:46), and The General Theological Seminary (9:01); experience in the aftermath of 9/11 (11:44); and work at The Interfaith Center of New York (15:39) - along with her perspective on aspects of religion and social justice (20:19). (Image source: The Interfaith Center of New York Facebook)

In this episode of Stang Stories, New York Times' Award-Winning children's book author and illustrator Tad Hills '81 discusses his time at Milton and Skidmore, career path, and writing and artistic process - along with the insight and perspective he has learned from it all.

In this episode of Stang Stories, Jim Meeks '97 discusses his time at Milton, Harvard, and Stanford; two tours in Iraq; efforts to bolster subsistence farming in Tanzania; mobile food cart startup - on top of the insight and perspective he has acquired along the way.

In this episode of Stang Stories, Kenzie Bok '07 discusses her time at Milton, Harvard, and Cambridge; initiatives in affordable housing; and experience as a member of the Boston City Council.