On Dec. 2, Mike Watanabe ’91 – Creative Advisor at BrainPOP and the voice of Tim – spoke with Academy students about the creative work behind one of the nation’s most widely used educational platforms. BrainPOP is known for its animated videos, quizzes and interactive activities that help K – 12 students learn core curriculum topics in an engaging, accessible way. In the series, Tim is the main student character who guides viewers through each topic alongside his robot friend, Moby, making difficult subjects approachable for young audiences.
Watanabe, who began as an animator and helped shape BrainPOP from its early days, described how the team develops clear, accurate content for complex or sensitive topics. He shared experiences creating films about 9/11, COVID-19 and the Black Lives Matter movement, noting that some subjects – including a video on grief created during a difficult time for the company’s founder – were particularly challenging to produce.
Students asked about his favorite films (“Similes and Metaphors,” featuring his cat), as well as how BrainPOP uses AI, navigates state-by-state content policies and adapts materials for different age levels. Watanabe emphasized collaboration with subject-matter experts, thoughtful use of AI as a creative tool and giving educators control through filtering options.
Watanabe’s visit offered students an inside look at how BrainPOP’s signature animated lessons are created – and how a Punahou alumnus helps shape learning for millions of children.
