In this inspiring 2025 podcast episode, EdSurge explores how the Broadway musical Wicked serves as a powerful teaching tool to motivate students and encourage them to defy their limits. Through the lens of the musical’s themes, educators share how they’ve used the story of Elphaba and Glinda to help students overcome obstacles, embrace individuality, and achieve greatness.

Learning from the Power of Storytelling

The episode begins by discussing the importance of storytelling in education. Wicked, with its rich narrative of ambition, self-discovery, and resilience, offers profound lessons that resonate with students. Educators highlight how they’ve used the musical’s plot and characters to engage students in meaningful discussions about overcoming personal struggles, taking risks, and pushing boundaries. The story of Elphaba, in particular, teaches students the importance of believing in themselves despite being misunderstood or marginalized.

Teaching Resilience and Overcoming Obstacles

One of the core messages in Wicked is resilience, and this episode delves into how educators have used the musical to teach students to defy the “gravity” of their challenges. Whether it's academic difficulties or personal setbacks, Wicked's characters inspire students to confront their fears and keep pushing forward. Teachers share how they incorporate the themes of perseverance and self-empowerment into lessons that encourage students to tackle obstacles head-on.

Inspiring Confidence in the Classroom

Another focus of the episode is the musical’s emphasis on confidence and self-expression. Wicked teaches students that it's okay to stand out and embrace their uniqueness. Educators explain how they’ve used songs like "Defying Gravity" as metaphors for breaking through mental and emotional barriers, encouraging students to take ownership of their learning and embrace challenges with confidence.

Fostering a Sense of Community and Empathy

Wicked also fosters empathy by highlighting the importance of understanding and accepting differences. In the classroom, this translates to building a supportive, inclusive community where students feel empowered to be themselves. Educators discuss how the relationships between Elphaba and Glinda serve as models for collaboration and mutual respect, encouraging students to work together despite differences.

Defying Gravity: Unlocking Potential in Every Student

The episode concludes by reflecting on the lasting impact of Wicked as a tool for unlocking student potential. By applying its themes of defiance, resilience, and empowerment, educators are inspiring students to defy their own “gravity”—whether it’s a fear of failure or self-doubt—and reach new heights in their education and personal growth.

This episode demonstrates how one musical can transform classroom dynamics and motivate students to challenge themselves, proving that education is truly about learning to defy gravity, one student at a time.