MADISON, Wis.—The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) has launched a new podcast, “Voices of People. Purpose. Pride.,” designed to bring community members closer to the conversations shaping public education in the city and beyond.

The podcast will feature discussions with district leaders, educators, students, families and local partners on topics that matter most to MMSD and the broader community. Episodes will be available to watch on YouTube and listen to on major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

The first episode is hosted by Superintendent Joe Gothard and features Assistant Superintendent of Financial Services Bob Soldner in a conversation about one of the district’s most important and frequently discussed topics: the budget.

In the episode, Gothard and Soldner talk through how MMSD builds its annual budget, the challenges of balancing student needs with available resources and the ongoing impact of state funding decisions on local schools. Soldner also shares his background in school finance, including experience at the state level, and reflects on how being both a district leader and an Eastside parent shapes his perspective.

Gothard said the podcast is intended to create space for transparency, reflection and shared understanding across the district.

“We know our community cares deeply about our schools and wants to better understand the decisions that shape them,” said Superintendent Joe Gothard. “This podcast is an opportunity to bring those conversations directly to our families, staff and stakeholders in a more personal and accessible way.”

The first episode of “Voices of People. Purpose. Pride.” is now up on the MMSD YouTube channel and will soon be available on major streaming platforms. 

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About the Madison Metropolitan School District

The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is the second-largest school district in Wisconsin, serving more than 25,000 students across 52 schools. The district’s vision is that every school will be a thriving school that prepares every student to graduate ready for college, career and community. With more than 7,000 teachers and staff, MMSD is committed to ensuring the district’s goals and core values are held at the center of its efforts, so students can learn, belong and thrive. For more information, visit mmsd.org.