95 - Listening First: Centering Students and Their Stories, featuring Yogi “Y?” Guyadin

In episode 95, Theresa and Kathryn sit down with Yogi “Y?” Guyadin, a teaching artist, musician, and “artivist” whose work centers student voices, creativity, and connection. Y? shares his powerful personal journey—from growing up surrounded by vibrant soundscapes in Queens to learning music through deep listening and instinctive exploration. He explains how his unconventional path led him to education, where he champions an approach grounded in student agency, multiple intelligences, and culturally responsive practices.

We explore Y?’s concept of cipher pedagogy, a model that invites collaboration, improvisation, and co-creation in the classroom. He emphasizes the importance of building environments where students and teachers can thrive through authenticity, emotional connection, and nervous system regulation. Whether you're a traditional music educator or exploring new territory, Y? offers a compelling vision for making music education more inclusive, joyful, and transformational.

Connect with Y? and learn more:

• Creative Expressions website

Learn more about Pass the Baton:

• Pass the Baton website
• Join the Coffee Club
• Support Pass the Baton
• Amplify student voice with Exit Tickets for Self Reflection