The Power of Connection in Math: Insights from Hortensia Soto

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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hortensia Soto and the Math Community 02:48 The Role of AI in Mathematics 05:17 Access to Mathematics and Its Political Nature 07:34 The Importance of Financial Literacy in Math Education 10:19 Communication Skills for Mathematicians 13:06 The Culture of the Mathematical Association of America 15:29 Reflections on Leadership in the Math Community 25:01 Innovative Approaches to Mathematics Education 25:50 Recognizing Math Identity in Students 27:02 Nurturing Student Potential 35:31 The Role of AI in Learning 38:26 The Human Element in Mathematics 39:51 Mathematics Beyond Symbols and Procedures Follow Hortensia Soto on LinkedIn ( ) Follow Breaking Math on Substack ( ) Twitter ( ) Instagram ( ) Bluesky ( ) Website ( ) YouTube ( ) Follow Noah on Instagram ( ) Twitter ( ) Bluesky ( ) Follow Autumn on Twitter ( ) Bluesky ( ) Instagram ( ) email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

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The Power of Connection in Math: Insights from Hortensia Soto is an episode from Breaking Math Podcast by Autumn Phaneuf & Noah Giansiracusa.

This episode is 40:20 long.

This episode was published on Mar 24, 2026.

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