About this episode
In this episode of Breaking Math, we sit down with Dr. Hortensia Soto, former president of the Mathematical Association of America, to explore the role of mathematics in a world shaped by AI, education, and access. We discuss how debates in math are often really about opportunity and inclusion, how educators can navigate the rapid pace of AI, and why communication and human connection matter more than ever. The conversation also highlights the importance of financial literacy, embodied learning, and collaboration, reframing mathematics not as a set of answers, but as a way of thinking grounded in curiosity, effort, and relationships.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Hortensia Soto and the Math Community02:48 The Role of AI in Mathematics05:17 Access to Mathematics and Its Political Nature07:34 The Importance of Financial Literacy in Math Education10:19 Communication Skills for Mathematicians13:06 The Culture of the Mathematical Association of America15:29 Reflections on Leadership in the Math Community25:01 Innovative Approaches to Mathematics Education25:50 Recognizing Math Identity in Students27:02 Nurturing Student Potential35:31 The Role of AI in Learning38:26 The Human Element in Mathematics39:51 Mathematics Beyond Symbols and ProceduresFollow Hortensia Soto on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/hortensia-soto-41230188/) Follow Breaking Math on Substack (https://breakingmath.substack.com/) Twitter (https://x.com/breakingmathpod) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/) Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/breakingmath.bsky.social) Website (https://www.breakingmath.io/) YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod) Follow Noah on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/profnoahgian/) Twitter (https://x.com/ProfNoahGian) Bluesky (
