Crystal Deken has spent nearly two decades teaching in classrooms across rural Oklahoma, where she’s made it her mission to spark curiosity and bring learning to life.
She loves connecting lessons to her students’ imaginations—turning everyday moments into opportunities for discovery.
About five years ago, Crystal took a leap into the world of STEM when she started an after-school STEM club, and she’s been hooked ever since.
What began as a small experiment quickly grew into a passion for helping students explore, tinker, and dream through hands-on learning.
Now, as the host of her STEM-focused podcast, Crystal shares that same spark with educators everywhere—especially those in small or rural schools.
She offers creative ideas, real stories, and practical inspiration for building strong STEM programs on small budgets.
With her warm, down-to-earth voice and boundless enthusiasm,
Crystal reminds teachers that innovation doesn’t depend on fancy tools—it starts with imagination, heart, and a willingness to explore the extraordinary in the everyday.




