Whiz Kids: Broadway Star, Musical Prodigy, Teen Scientist, and Aspiring Reporter

Young Broadway Talent

• 🎭 Poppy Lavell, at 9 years old, discusses her Broadway debut as Alice Creel in "Stranger Things: The First Shadow."
• 💡 She balances school with a demanding theater schedule, working six days a week.
• 🌟 Poppy describes the joy of performing and the supportive atmosphere on Broadway.
• ⏳ She shares the challenging audition process, having auditioned approximately 80 times before landing her role.

Musical Prodigy and Young Innovator

• 🎤 Zoe Ariana, an 8-year-old with perfect pitch, performed her original song "It's Your Birthday" on the show.
• 🎶 Zoe's musical talent was influenced by church music and honed through practice.
• 🔬 Ammyra Shrivl Slava, a ninth grader, developed the "Flavo Peel Cup," a biodegradable cup made from fruit peels.
• 🌱 This invention aims to combat plastic waste and provides nutrients called flavonoids to the drinker.
• 🌍 Ammyra was inspired by a second-grade lesson on plastic pollution and aims to be a purpose-driven entrepreneur in STEM.

Aspiring Reporter and Future Leaders

• 🎙️ Lily Torres, an aspiring reporter, gained experience through the Chris Hooks Kid Reporter program, interviewing athletes.
• ⚾ Lily's interest in sports reporting stems from her own participation in baseball and softball.
• 👂 She emphasizes the importance of active listening during interviews to capture spontaneous moments and learn from conversations.
• 🌟 The episode also briefly highlights other young achievers like Doris Fidac (TED talks) and Robbie Bond (National Parks advocate).

Show Sponsorship and Hosts

• 🤝 The episode is sponsored by Virtual Enterprises International, an organization that teaches students business by running businesses.
• 🎤 Hosts Connell McShane and Mr. G celebrate the accomplishments of young people across various fields.