Christy Frantz is the Director of The Learning Studios and a seasoned educator with deep experience guiding students from middle school through graduate school. With a background in college planning, academic advising, and writing support, she brings a well-rounded and compassionate approach to student success. Christy is skilled in everything from high school counseling and application strategy to educational technology and independent study programs. She holds a BA and MA in English, a teaching credential, and has studied language and literature at UC Irvine, UC Santa Barbara, and the University of Vienna. She’s also a wonderful colleague—and one of the reasons I was inspired to pursue this work myself.

Dr. Kristin Vogel-Campbell (she/her/hers) is a Special Educator with over 20 years of experience, having held roles from paraeducator to Director of Student Services in Special Education. 

Dr. Vogel-Campbell focuses on systems-level change, research-based instruction for students with disabilities in the Least Restrictive Environment. She supports  leaders in understanding Special Education laws and protections for students and families.

As a practitioner-researcher, Dr. Vogel-Campbell collaborates with families to  create culturally affirming and equitable school partnerships. She has presented at conferences such as AERA, NAME, and ACSA and published in ACSA magazine, The Journal of Leadership, and the KQED Education blog. Her award-winning book, Partnering with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Families in Special Education, was published in December 2023.

Jonathan Cormur, a seasoned SAG-AFTRA actor and versatile voice over artist with theatrical training and 20+ years’ experience, brings depth to video games, audiobooks, and podcasts. His adaptable range spans Shakespearean roles to quirky characters, captivating audiences as an authentic everyman or lovable figure. As the host of Dorktales Storytime podcast, his engaging performance has elevated the show’s ranking since its 2020 launch.

Michael O'Brien is an actor, writer, improviser and original member of the long-running comedy group "The National Theatre of the Deranged."

In addition to his stage, television and film work he has performed in thousands of award-winning commercials including groundbreaking campaigns for NYNEX, Roundtable and the San Francisco Giants.

Michael along with his pal Geoff Bolt are also co-creators of the usually well regarded "Tips on Travel with Karl & Carl" and the recently launched O'Brien & Bolt: The Podcasts.