Marketing and Education

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana Leoni sits down with Hallie Smith, a seasoned EdTech leader, former educator, and now fractional marketing advisor. Hallie brings her full-circle journey—from early EdTech roles to speech pathology in public schools, and back into EdTech—to unpack the evolving challenges and opportunities in education marketing today.Together, Elana and Hallie explore:The surprising trajectory from EdTech to the classroom—and back againWhy it's getting harder to market to educators, and what to do about itThe crucial difference between marketing to educators and with themHow AI and funding shifts are disrupting the EdTech landscapeCommon marketing mistakes EdTech companies make (and how to fix them)Tactical advice on crafting a marketing plan that actually aligns with your business goalsThis episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to make meaningful, measurable impact in education—whether you're new to the space or a seasoned pro.

Q2 is here—and it's a whirlwind. In this timely episode, Elana Leoni, CEO of Leoni Consulting Group, and Senior Social Media Manager Hillary Trussell break down everything education marketers need to know right now: from federal budget cuts and district layoffs to the impact of AI, shifting conversations in education's key phrases, and tightening sales cycles. They also dig into key Q2 events like ASU+GSV, NSBA, and ISTE, plus can't-miss opportunities like Teacher Appreciation Month and graduation season. Whether you're planning campaigns or prepping your booth, this is your go-to guide for staying relevant, building trust, and getting results.Read the rest of the show notes here.

We're revisiting this conversation with Katie Test Davis—not just because it's one of our most-loved episodes, but because it's a reminder we could all use right now.In a time when educators and decision-makers are overwhelmed by constant change, shifting strategies, and too much information, storytelling still cuts through the noise. In this episode, Katie unpacks how to use storytelling as a strategic tool, not just a feel-good add-on. You'll hear how to identify a powerful main character, how to connect that story to your broader vision, and how to make it resonate with different audiences, whether you're talking to a superintendent, a classroom teacher, or a donor.Elana and Katie also get into the emotional side of storytelling: why it matters, why it's memorable, and why now is the perfect time to double down on it. From scrappy, low-budget formats to long-term campaigns, they explore the mindset and tactics education organizations need to tell better, braver stories.Whether you're just getting started or need a fresh perspective, this episode will leave you thinking differently about how stories shape perception, drive action, and remind us why we do this work in the first place.View the rest of the episode show notes.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, host Elana Leoni sits down with Dan O'Reilly, founder of FuelK12, who brings over 35 years of sales experience—half of that in EdTech. Having led both sales and marketing teams, Dan offers a unique perspective on why these two functions often struggle to work together—and what it takes to truly align them.Dan unpacks the biggest barriers between sales and marketing, from siloed goals to misaligned expectations. He shares why shared goals (not just aligned goals) are the key to breaking down silos and fostering real collaboration. The conversation covers tactical steps to build a culture of alignment, including regular communication, journey mapping exercises, and using data to eliminate the blame game.This discussion is especially relevant as EdTech companies navigate long sales cycles, shifting budgets, and increasing pressure to drive measurable results. Dan offers practical advice on how marketing and sales teams can move beyond tension and toward a shared revenue mindset. Whether you're a CMO, head of sales, or EdTech leader looking to improve cross-team collaboration, this episode provides actionable insights to strengthen your go-to-market strategy.View the episode's show notes.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, host Elana Leoni sits down with Bert Bower, founder of Teachers' Curriculum Institute (TCI), whose remarkable 36-year journey in educational publishing has transformed how social studies is taught in American classrooms. From humble beginnings as a bootstrapped startup to becoming a leader in core curriculum, Bert shares insights on building a sustainable EdTech company while staying true to teacher-focused values.Bert emphasizes the importance of classroom-first design and human interaction over technological gimmicks. He describes TCI's evolution from supplemental materials to core curriculum, and how they've navigated multiple transformations—from physical materials to digital platforms, and most recently, to interactive video activities that encourage student engagement. For EdTech professionals, his insights on maintaining lean operations, and focusing on teacher adoption before administrative buy-in offer valuable lessons in building sustainable educational companies.This conversation is especially timely as the EdTech industry faces significant changes. Bert offers candid insights about the current state of educational technology, including thoughtful perspectives on AI's role as a "guide on the side" rather than a replacement for human interaction. Whether you're an EdTech entrepreneur looking to understand the industry's dynamics or an educator interested in the evolution of classroom technology, this episode provides valuable insights into building products that truly serve teachers and students.Here are the rest of the episode show notes.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, host Elana Leoni sits down with seasoned educator and EdTech leader Mary Beth Hertz, whose inspiring journey in education spans nearly two decades. Together, they explore Mary Beth's unique relationship with technology—from the early days of building computers to her current work as an advocate for experiential learning.Mary Beth shares her insights into the evolution of technology in education and her passion for experiential learning, a hands-on approach that transforms traditional teaching methods. She explains how it differs from project-based learning and the profound impact it has on students in her classroom. For EdTech professionals, this episode offers practical advice on supporting experiential learning through innovative products and services, ensuring alignment with effective pedagogical strategies.Tune in for an engaging discussion about Mary Beth's fascinating EdTech journey, the power of experiential learning, and how understanding diverse teaching methodologies can help us all better support educators and students alike. This conversation is packed with valuable insights for educators, EdTech entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about authentic, impactful education.Link to the episode show notes.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana Leoni sits down with Amos Fodchuk, the President and Founder of Advanced Learning Partnerships (ALP). Amos isn't just an expert in EdTech—he's a true partner to school districts, working side by side with educators and leaders to create real, meaningful change.Amos shares ALP's unique “year of learning” model, a collaborative, year-long process designed to build literacy and establish policies around emerging technologies like Generative AI. Throughout the conversation, he dives deep into how a systems-level approach can create lasting educational transformation by connecting all stakeholders, ensuring technology isn't just used but used effectively.The discussion also explores the importance of workplace wellness, emphasizing the need to support educators in the midst of rapid change and competing demands. Whether you're in EdTech, work in a school district, or are curious about the future of education, this episode offers actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and a refreshing systems-level perspective on how to navigate today's complex education landscape.View the rest of the show notes.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana Leoni welcomes Hall Davidson, a legend in the EdTech world with a career spanning decades of innovation. Hall shares his fascinating journey from teaching math live on TV to shaping the Discovery Educator Network (DEN), one of the most vibrant and impactful teacher communities ever created.Hall reflects on the early days of integrating technology into classrooms, highlighting key lessons for EdTech companies and educators looking to navigate today's rapidly evolving landscape. He dives into the importance of empowering teachers as storytellers and advocates, offering practical tips on how to build authentic communities that foster collaboration and growth.As the conversation unfolds, Hall shares his insights on AI in education—why it's not just a trend but a tool that can revolutionize teaching and learning. Whether you're an EdTech marketer, educator, or industry professional, this episode is packed with actionable strategies, inspiring stories, and thought-provoking ideas that you won't want to miss.Questions asked:Can you share a bit about your journey in the education space and how your experiences have shaped your perspective on EdTech?What are you most excited about in EdTech? What do you think has the most potential impact on student learning?What do you wish teachers and districts would use more or of use in a different way? What's overhyped? How have you seen the role of teachers evolve over the past few years, especially with the integration of technology? What should edtech companies keep in mind to better support teachers during these shifts?Why do you view school libraries as a natural hub for AI in schools, and how can they become central to integrating new technologies into the learning process?What's something you've read or watched recently that inspired you?Read the episode show notes.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, we dive into the vital role that professional development and implementation play in EdTech success—two often overlooked aspects that can make or break the adoption of new technologies in K-12 education.Elana sits down with Shelby Danks, founder and principal advisor of ARKEN RESEARCH, who has spent decades researching the efficacy of EdTech solutions in education. Shelby brings a wealth of knowledge about the importance of strategic implementation and the critical role professional development plays in ensuring that new tools truly benefit educators and students.Together, they unpack the differences between implementation and professional development, discuss the common pitfalls that EdTech companies face, and explore best practices for rolling out new tools in a way that supports meaningful adoption in schools. Shelby also shares her insights on the “refrigerator vs. washer-dryer” metaphor, which helps companies understand the different levels of support their products require, and how they can partner with schools for long-term success.If you're an EdTech provider, education leader, or educator interested in understanding how to effectively implement new technology and provide professional development that truly supports teachers, this episode is for you. Tune in for practical takeaways and expert insights that will help you make thoughtful decisions when it comes to the adoption and integration of EdTech tools.Full episode show notes here.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, we're tackling one of the hottest topics in the world right now—AI, specifically generative AI, and its impact on education.Elana sits down with EdTech expert and long-time friend, Mary Beth Hertz, who has spent decades thinking critically about the role of technology in education. Known for her thoughtful approach, Mary Beth isn't swayed by the latest trends or flashy innovations. She asks the tough questions that keep us all grounded—ensuring that technology is always used with the ultimate goal of improving learning outcomes for students.Together, they dive deep into the current state of AI in education, discussing how it can be leveraged effectively without losing sight of what truly matters: the students. Beyond AI, they explore the broader landscape of EdTech and what the industry must do to better support both educators and learners during these rapidly changing times.If you're navigating the complex world of EdTech and wondering how AI can play a role in enhancing education, this conversation is for you. Tune in for an insightful discussion that will leave you with practical takeaways and a fresh perspective on the future of technology in education.Here's the full episode show notes.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana sat down with Thor Prichard, President & CEO at Clarity Innovations—a mission-driven, K-12 education-focused professional services and consulting firm. Clarity Innovations specializes in everything from education strategy and content creation to engineering and design solutions.You may remember Thor from our last conversation about the challenges of creating effective EdTech products and the importance of designing with learning outcomes in mind.Thor shares his insights on some of the most fascinating trends and innovations in education technology. Elana and Thor discuss the impact of generative AI, the importance of integrating EdTech products into the everyday practices of educators and students, and the different business models shaping the industry. They also explore the evolving role of family-school partnerships and future trends in product development.Thor concludes the conversation with thoughts on what he believes are the keys to creating lasting and impactful products in education. This episode is packed with valuable insights and is not to be missed. Enjoy!Questions Asked:What types of products and services have you and your team developed in the EdTech space, and at what stages of product development do you typically focus?From your experience, what are the most critical elements that a product needs to have during the design and development process?How do you ensure that a product achieves product/market fit, effectively meeting the needs of buyers, users, and the business?How do you approach prioritizing feature development, and how do you determine when a product might have too many features?Is it better to develop a product that excels at one or two key functions or one that offers a broader range of features? How do you balance depth versus breadth?How do you continuously evolve your product to stay aligned with the changing needs of users and buyers, while also meeting your firm's and clients' objectives? Can you share any examples where things didn't go as planned and any warning signs to watch for?What's something you've read or watched recently that has inspired you?

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana got to chat with Lawrence Korchnak, a Founding Partner of BLOQQ, a consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations scale in the education market.As EdTech marketing execs, Elana and Lawrence have years of experience selling in the EdTech space. In this conversation, they get into busting some common EdTech marketing myths, such as, “starting with a freemium model is a sure way to guarantee B2B sales,” or “once I sell to a school, they'll probably always use my product.” They also explain some of the nuances to marketing to an education audience, including some of the pitfalls that marketers without an education background might not catch. You might remember Lawrence from our last episode with him, where we covered the challenges of EdTech go-to-market strategies.Lawrence doesn't sugar coat things or hold back — we appreciated his candid tone backed by years of executive experience. Enjoy this episode!Myths Busted:Education marketers can sell to one decision maker.Freemium models guarantee B2B sales down the road. You can sell or market your EdTech product at any time of the year.Once you are adopted by a school or district, churn is low. Here's the full transcript of Lawrence's podcast episode.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana sits down with Kristina Ishmael, now an education Strategic Advisor of her own shop, Ishmael Consulting, but has a long journey through so many perspectives within education, at a classroom, district, state, and national level. We speak a lot about her recent experience as Deputy Director of the Office of EdTech, where she spent two years working on EdTech policy at the national level. You might remember Kristina from our last episode, in which we covered the challenges and priorities of the updated National EdTech Plan. In this episode, Kristina reflects on her unique journey within education and EdTech. She opens up about the one thing that's helped guide her through it all. At the end, Kristina also gives some feedback on what EdTech vendors should and should not do when partnering with school districts and what EdTech excites her the most. We hope you enjoy this episode of what we're calling “the EdTech version of chicken noodle soup for the soul.” ❤️

n this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, our host Elana Leoni sat down with Ian McCullough, a consultant specializing in marketing, go-to-market strategies, and business development for the EdTech industry.You might remember Ian from our last episode with him, Academic Integrity in the AI Era, took us on a journey into the fascinating intersection of ChatGPT, AI writing, and academic integrity.Here, we delve into the intricacies of the EdTech buying cycle, exploring its metaphors and nuances that help make sense of the process. Ian's insights are invaluable for anyone involved in EdTech sales, whether B2B or, as Ian suggests, B2G (business to government).Before diving in, a bit about Ian: with over 20 years in education and creative technology, he has experience spanning consumer, corporate training, and institutional markets. He previously led the North American K-12 marketing team at Turnitin and now offers his expertise as a consultant.Enjoy this engaging episode that makes the complex K-12 buying cycle both understandable and exciting!

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana sits down with Dr. Robert Dillon, School Designer, Author, Speaker, and Learner. Bob, as she likes to call him, has earned a doctorate in educational leadership and administration, and brings over 20 years of experience as a teacher, school principal, and director of innovation at multiple school districts; he is the author of five books, including the ones we dive into today: The Space: A Guide for Leaders. In this episode, Bob and Elana discuss the crucial role of redesigning learning spaces in education, emphasizing that it's far more than just updating bulletin boards. They delve into the significant impact of classroom design on student engagement, sense of belonging, and overall well-being.Make sure to listen until the end, as Bob shares practical tips for educators to create flexible, inclusive, and technology-integrated learning environments. They also explore the relationship between physical learning spaces and EdTech products, highlighting the importance of considering equity and the needs of marginalized students in the design process.Whether you're already back in school or preparing for the upcoming year, this episode is packed with valuable tips and ideas to help you optimize your classroom space.Here's the link to the episode show notes.For even more planning resources, check out our EdTech Marketer's Planner.Mentioned in this episode:The EdTech Marketer's Planner - Extended EditionWant a comprehensive list of timely education events to inform your 2024 marketing plans? Struggling to find the time you need to strategically plan for content and social media? Spending countless hours just trying to aggregate conferences, awards, events, holidays, and famous birthdays is most important to education stakeholders? Our first-ever Extended EdTech Marketer's Planner was created to help you easily create a marketing and content plan that generates leads. It includes proven templates, strategies, editable calendars, and more.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, we sit down with Shawn McCusker, Senior Director of Professional Learning at EdTechTeacher, to discuss his passion, civic engagement. We ask him about some of his favorite tips and takeaways from the book Becoming Active Citizens, which he co-wrote with Tom Driscoll. He provides practical ways to encourage active citizens in the classroom by creating authentic, engaging learning experiences, emphasizing the need for students to actively participate in government meetings and simulations to truly understand how government works.Shawn highlights the positive impact of quality civic engagement on communities, such as increased voter turnout and improved quality of life. He encourages educators to prioritize citic education and suggests ways for school leaders to support its integration into all subjects. Here's the link to the episode show notes.For even more planning resources, check out our EdTech Marketer's Planner.

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana sits down with Tatum Moser, who has the unique combination of an expertise SEO and a deep background in education and EdTech. During this conversation, Tatum talks about all things SEO — and before you get concerned that this may be overly technical, Tatum has a beautiful way of breaking this all down in such an easy-to-understand way. She talks about practical ways to leverage SEO in your daily marketing and content efforts; specifically, we talk about tips on improving your SEO health score by conducting keyword research, optimizing user experience, and using some cool SEO tools.SEO isn't always easy, but if done right, it will completely change the way you approach your content strategy — and Tatum is exactly the right person to help you start your jouney. Enjoy!Episode show notesExtended EdTech Marketer's PlannerMentioned in this episode:The EdTech Marketer's Planner - Extended EditionWant a comprehensive list of timely education events to inform your 2024 marketing plans? Struggling to find the time you need to strategically plan for content and social media? Spending countless hours just trying to aggregate conferences, awards, events, holidays, and famous birthdays is most important to education stakeholders? Our first-ever Extended EdTech Marketer's Planner was created to help you easily create a marketing and content plan that generates leads. It includes proven templates, strategies, editable calendars, and more.

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana sits down with Ilana Kurizki, the Vice President of Communications at BrainPOP, a 25-year-old EdTech brand that reaches millions of learners worldwide.Ilana has spent almost 14 years at BrainPOP within different communications roles, and we talk about so many valuable things within communications and marketing, such as how you make the case for comms, what role should it play internally and externally, and best practices like how to integrate it within the entire company (and not let it be a siloed effort). Toward the end of the conversation, Ilana shares some really great nuggets of wisdom for anyone starting in comms or thinking about it as a profession. To top it off, we get into an inspiring conversation about how to integrate educator voice into your day-to-day.This conversation is such a breath of fresh air that made us smile. We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did. Questions Covered:What is the relationship between communications and other leaders and departments within the organization, including the executive team and marketing?Why is a robust internal and external communications function critical to the success of any organization?How do you evolve a brand over time while preserving its core identity? What are the benefits of conducting listening tours with customers and colleagues?What advice would you give to aspiring communications leaders on finding their power, purpose, and voice? What are some of the things that fill your cup? Here's the full transcript of Ilana's podcast episode.Mentioned in this episode:The EdTech Marketer's Planner - Extended EditionWant a comprehensive list of timely education events to inform your 2024 marketing plans? Struggling to find the time you need to strategically plan for content and social media? Spending countless hours just trying to aggregate conferences, awards, events, holidays, and famous birthdays is most important to education stakeholders? Our first-ever Extended EdTech Marketer's Planner was created to help you easily create a marketing and content plan that generates leads. It includes proven templates, strategies, editable calendars, and more.

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana got to chat with Lawrence Korchnak, a Founding Partner of BLOQQ, a consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations scale in the education market.Lawrence guides us through the unique challenges of a go-to-market strategy in the EdTech Industry, including how to plan a go-to-market strategy, including defining success, backward planning, and prioritizing marketing channels. He sheds some light on the seasonality and Budget Cycles in Education and don't' miss the end of our chat, when Lawrence throws down some really candid pieces of wisdom. we talk about some important intangibles on Building an EdTech Go-to-Market Strategy. For any EdTech marketers, but especially those who are new to the EdTech industry or the marketing profession, this episode will help set a solid foundation for your next go-to-market campaign. Questions Covered:Why develop a Go-To-Market Strategy and let's even back up and define what a typical EDTech GTM strategy is and looks like? What are some key questions for success in building your startup in a crowded, bureaucratic, and complex marketplace?What are some of the things that you turn to to fill your cup? Here's the full transcript of Lawrence's podcast episode.For even more planning resources, check out our EdTech Marketer's Planner.Mentioned in this episode:The EdTech Marketer's Planner - Extended EditionWant a comprehensive list of timely education events to inform your 2024 marketing plans? Struggling to find the time you need to strategically plan for content and social media? Spending countless hours just trying to aggregate conferences, awards, events, holidays, and famous birthdays is most important to education stakeholders? Our first-ever Extended EdTech Marketer's Planner was created to help you easily create a marketing and content plan that generates leads. It includes proven templates, strategies, editable calendars, and more.

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana and our guest, Kristina Ishmael, get into the nooks and crannies of the National EdTech Plan.They discuss the broader role of the Office of EdTech, the specific goals of the National EdTech Plan in 2024, and how you can use it whether you're an educator, administrator, or EdTech professional. They highlight the inclusivity and collaboration in the plan, as well as the challenges and priorities it addresses. Looking ahead, they consider the future of the plan and the potential challenges and opportunities in education by 2030.Kristina currently works as an Education Strategic Advisor at her own shop — Ishmael Consulting — but she has formerly served in the classroom, at the state level, and at the national level, and was personally instrumental in the creation of the National EdTech Plan.Episode show notes.Purchase the EdTech Marketer's Planner 2024.Mentioned in this episode:The EdTech Marketer's 2024 Planner: Extended EditionWant a comprehensive list of timely education events to inform your 2024 marketing plans? Struggling to find the time you need to strategically plan for content and social media? Spending countless hours just trying to aggregate conferences, awards, events, holidays, and famous birthdays is most important to education stakeholders? Our first-ever Extended EdTech Marketer's Planner was created to help you easily create a marketing and content plan that generates leads. It includes proven templates, strategies, editable calendars, and more.

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana sat down with Milton Chen, author, speaker, and board member of great organizations like the Kellogg Foundation, the National Park Service, The Fred Rogers Center, The Panasonic Foundation, and more. Milton reflects on his journey in education, from his early days at Sesame Workshop to his tenure at the Kellogg Foundation, offering valuable lessons learned along the way. He explores the role of experiential learning, project-based education, and workplace experiences in shaping students' futures, advocating for a more holistic approach to education that extends beyond traditional classroom boundaries.Milton candidly shares his insights into the political nature of education, likening it to a complex system resistant to change. Drawing from his extensive experience, he sheds light on the decentralized structure of American schools, consisting of over 14,000 individual districts, each with its own set of challenges and entrenched interests.No matter who you are in the education industry, this is as inspiring, refreshing, and thought-provoking conversation about the history of K-12 education and its future. Episode show notes + resources.

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana sat down with Thor Prichard, President & CEO at Clarity Innovations, a mission-driven, K-12 education-focused professional services and consulting firm that provides education strategy, content creation, engineering, and design solutions. They discuss the importance of designing EdTech products with learning outcomes in mind, the challenges of creating effective EdTech products, and the UX/UI non-negotiables from an educator's point of view.Thor reminds us of all the considerations when creating effective EdTech tools with the end user, students, in mind, particularly that implementation and professional development programs are essential steps to the process. Thor also highlights some of the current trends in the EdTech space.Episode show notes.

Elana sat down with Miriam Romais, Director of NewsLitNation at The News Literacy Project, Documentary photographer, nonprofit leader, and all-around misinformation super-fighter, to talk about all things News Literacy.Miriam discusses the importance of news literacy in education and how it can be integrated into various subjects. She addresses misconceptions about news literacy and highlights the role of critical thinking in evaluating information. Miriam also shares resources and strategies for educators to teach news literacy effectively. The conversation emphasizes the power of community and the long-lasting impact teachers can have on their students.View the episode's show notes for all of the resources mentioned.Here's the full transcript of Miriam's podcast episode.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana welcomes Henry J. Turner, an award-winning high school principal and co-author of Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Anti-Racist Culture In Your School. Henry, whom you might remember from our previous episode on fostering an anti-racist classroom, shares his wealth of experience in education, spanning 22 years as both a teacher and principal in Massachusetts.Today, Henry delves into the intricacies of education leadership, discussing his priorities for the school year, how he selects specific EdTech products, and whether these priorities evolve annually. We explore his insights on the buying cycle, providing valuable information for marketers and EdTech professionals. As the 2020 K-12 Principal of the Year, Henry's perspective is grounded in a unique blend of classroom and leadership experience.Join us as we navigate through the challenges and priorities of education leadership, with Henry J. Turner as our guide. View the episode show notes.

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, our host Elana Leoni sat down with Ian McCullough, the Director of Marketing for Global Campaigns at Turnitin. Ian took us on a journey into the fascinating intersection of ChatGPT, AI writing, and academic integrity, giving insights from the history of plagiarism and the need for plagiarism detection to academic integrity in the world of AI today. Join Elana and Ian as they share lighthearted anecdotes, discuss the collaborative nature of EdTech, and explore the transformative power of networking in the field.Show notes: leoniconsultinggroup.com/57

Welcome to another episode of All Things Marketing and Education! We had the pleasure of sitting down with Shelby Danks, Ph.D., founder and principal advisor at ARKEN RESEARCH, who has the unique ability to make complex topics like research, evaluation, and efficacy not only approachable but also inspiring. Shelby delves into the crucial role of efficacy studies in K-12 education, unraveling misconceptions about evaluation and impact. We touch on practical strategies for brands to measure their impact effectively while ensuring it's a manageable process. We also explore why understanding and engaging with these studies is vital from an educator's perspective.If you've ever wondered about the metrics and data behind student outcomes, especially with the influence of ESSA funds, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we navigate through the intricacies of evidence in K-12 education and learn from Shelby's insights.

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, we sit down with Shawn McCusker, Senior Director of Professional Learning at EdTechTeacher, to explore his fascinating journey in the field of education technology. Shawn shares insights on EdTech trends, separating hype from reality, and how he, in leadership positions, selects and prioritizes technology for educational impact. This episode is not just a tech conversation; it's a marketing goldmine. Don't miss this episode filled with passion, inspiration, and a wealth of experience within the EdTech industry.

Join Elana Leoni on All Things Marketing and Education as she delves into the unique world of EdTech sales with CEO and founder of Fuel Sales, Dan O'Reilly. In this episode, they explore the intricacies of selling to schools and districts, emphasizing the mission-driven nature and the collaborative culture within the education space. Dan offers valuable insights for successful sales in EdTech for both newcomers and industry veterans. Don't miss this episode that sheds light on the distinctive nuances of EdTech B2B sales and how to navigate them effectively.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana welcomes Henry J. Turner, an award-winning high school principal and co-author of Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Anti-Racist Culture In Your School. They discuss the importance of tackling systemic racism in educational spaces, setting boundaries, and the role of educators and EdTech in promoting diversity and inclusion. Discover how education professionals are collaborating, sharing, and making a difference in this mission-driven field. We hope you enjoy this inspiring conversation on creating a more inclusive education environment.

This week, we sit down with Jeremy Dulle, Founder and President of Spring Rock Partners, and a growth strategist, go-to-market advisor, and business developer with over 25 years of experience.Join us as we dive into the unique business of EdTech, exploring strategies for growth, the importance of diversification, and the delicate balance between educator perspectives and business objectives. We'll unpack the language of the EdTech industry, stakeholders and pressures that affect the education environment, and strategies for brands seeking partnerships with districts.Here's the full transcript of Jeremy's episode.

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, we're joined by Katie Boody Adorno, CEO and Founder of Leanlab Education, a nonprofit research organization dedicated to studying and advancing transformational education innovations. Katie guides us into the fascinating world of co-designed education innovations and unpacks the power of community-building in the education space. She also explores topics such as educator voice, the role of research and development in K-12 education, and the effectiveness of EdTech. Show Notes: Leoniconsultinggroup.com/52The EdTech Marketer's Planner: leoniconsultinggroup.com/23

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, we sit down with Samia Zaidi, the Managing Director of Program for Along, a free online platform that strengthens teacher-student relationships and highlights student voice in the classroom. During our discussion, Samia explores helpful tactics to create impactful teacher-student relationships, how these dynamics shape school culture, and the empowering influence of student voices.Show notes: leoniconsultinggroup.com/51EdTech Marketer's Planner: leoniconsultinggroup.com/23

In this week's episode of All Things Marketing and Education, our host Elana Leoni sits down with AnnMarie Baines, founder and executive director of The Practice Space, which helps youth and adults in the Bay Area speak in a clear, engaging way that represents who they are and what they care about. AnnMarie also recently coauthored a book, “Amplify Student Voices,” which explores how to cultivate student voices and facilitate equitable participation so that young people are prepared to speak up and lead when the moment calls for it. Throughout the conversation, AnnMarie Baines brings us into the world of building classroom confidence using public speaking, oral communication skills, and project-based learning as tools for equity - all while exploring the intersectionality of social justice.Show notes: leoniconsultinggroup.com/50

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, your host, Elana Leoni, sits down with the brilliant and compassionate Salleha Chaudhry, former Head of Education Modernization at Meta. We follow Salleha's incredible career journey, where neuroscience, nonprofit work, and tech collide in the realm of education initiatives. They explore the vital significance of bringing educators to the forefront of technology, ensuring their voices are heard and elevated. They also unpack the essence of co-creating thriving communities and the power it holds in making education equitable and accessible for all. Like she did for us, we hope Salleha will leave you inspired to transform your marketing efforts into a force for positive change and lasting impact.Episode show notes: leoniconsultinggroup.com/492023 EdTech Marketer's Planner: leoniconsultinggroup.com/23

In this episode, Austin Rhodes, the president and co-founder of Rhodes Branding, explores the world of branding in the education industry and delves into what it means for educators and EdTech brands to create and invest in their own brands.For resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes here: leoniconsultinggroup.com/48Link to our 2023 EdTech Marketer's Planner: leoniconsultinggroup.com/23

We chat with Thomas Rodgers, Vice President and Head of K-12 Communications at Whiteboard Advisors. Thomas is an expert in leveraging earned media, brand storytelling, and influencer engagement to advance educational missions, with a particular emphasis on K-12 education. This conversation delves into how EdTech companies can effectively collaborate with the media, exploring successful strategies and potential pitfalls. Additionally, Thomas offers tips for pitching to conferences and securing visibility in panels and events.Show notes: leoniconsultinggroup.com/47EdTech planner: leoniconsultinggroup.com/23

During Teacher Appreciation Week, the LCG Foundation launched an initiative aimed to support and recognize U.S. educators by using the #ClearTheList to fulfill as many teacher wishlists as we could. In this very special bonus episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana sits down with Porter Palmer and William (Bill) Trinkle, LCG Foundation team members who were the boots on the ground of this initiative. Porter and Bill celebrate the impact of this initiative, reflect on some challenges, and explain why doing this work is sometimes bittersweet.

Elana sits down with award-winning digital innovator, educator, speaker, and author Shelly Sanchez Terrell, covering topics such as AI, ChatGPT, technology integration, teacher time-saving tips, and digital wellness. Shelly's expertise and extensive experience in training teachers globally make her insights invaluable as we explore the transformative power of EdTech. Don't miss this engaging discussion with a true leader in teacher-driven professional development.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana Leoni talks with Kyle Calderwood, a technology coordinator at Tabernacle School District and Google-certified educator. They discuss “unconferences,” owning professional development as an educator, and game-based learning. Kyle shares his expertise in integrating gaming in the classroom and working with teachers across the country on this issue. They also speak to how EdTech products and services play alongside of professional development in education. Throughout the conversation, Elana and Kyle keep things informal and share some personal anecdotes about their history of collaboration.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana Leoni sits down with educator and author Alex Shevrin Venet to discuss equity, trauma-informed education, social justice, and how both educators and EdTech brands can play a role in creating a more equitable educational system. Alex is the co-founder of the Nurturing the Nurturers Collective, a healing community for educators, and her first book, Equity Centered Trauma Informed Education, is a bestseller at WW Norton. Throughout the conversation, Alex breaks down these often-buzzwordy topics and provides actionable steps for educators to take.

The University Innovation Alliance (UIA) is a multi-campus laboratory for student success innovation that helps university leaders dramatically accelerate the implementation of scalable solutions to increase the number and diversity of college graduates. Founder and CEO Dr. Bridget Burns sits down with Elana Leoni, CEO of Leoni Consulting Group, to discuss what it means to collaborate, how to best serve any kind of audience, and some basic ways in which the EdTech industry could be more responsive to its market.Show notes: leoniconsultinggroup.com/41

Tony Wan, Head of Platform for Reach Capital, discusses the perks and pitfalls of ChatGPT, the expanding role of artificial intelligence (AI) in EdTech, and how the market is shifting in 2023.

In this special conversation, two of Leoni Consulting Group's team members, Social Media Lead Hillary Trussell and CEO Elana Leoni, sit down to share best practices for using social media to leverage EdTech companies' presence at education conferences. In great detail and with great enthusiasm, they explore what to do before, during, and after the conference. Even if you're new to the convention circuit, you'll walk away from this podcast informed and energized.

Eman Haggag, Program Manager at Meta, moved directly to the tech world by way of instructional coaching after 15 years of teaching and integrating K-12 STEM content. She sits down with Elana Leoni, CEO of Leoni Consulting Group, for an inspiring conversation about what it means for teachers to broaden their impact, how to reframe a strong skill set to be relevant for a different industry, and how EdTech companies can better use the perspectives of educators who want to join their ranks.Here are the rest of the episode's show notes, including links to resources. We know how incredibly daunting it can be to plan content and marketing campaigns for an entire year. That's why our team created the EdTech Marketer's 2023 Planner. This planner will help you get your year started and provide you with helpful resources throughout 2023.

Dr. Erika Tate, founder of Loravore® Professional Learning and high-energy host of Remix EQ Live, has a long personal and professional history of seeking out and creating equitable learning experiences for women and people of color. She sits down with Elana Leoni, CEO of Leoni Consulting Group, to define instructional equity, suggest how to approach a society-wide problem on a classroom scale, and talk about the rewards and challenges of using EdTech tools in this work.We know how incredibly daunting it can be to plan content and marketing campaigns for an entire year. That's why our team created the EdTech Marketer's 2023 Planner. This planner will help you get your year started and provide you with helpful resources throughout 2023.

Lisa Schmucki didn't start out as a teacher or intend to be an entrepreneur. Yet as founder and CEO of edWeb.net, she created an award-winning professional learning network that helps educators share their best ideas and practices to improve teaching and learning. Lisa sits down with Elana Leoni, CEO of Leoni Consulting Group, to discuss professional learning, teacher voice and choice, and EdTech's role in helping educators grow.I know how incredibly daunting it can be to plan content and marketing campaigns for an entire year. That's why our team created the EdTech Marketer's 2023 Planner (link: https://www.leoniconsultinggroup.com/download-2023-edtech-marketers-planner) . This planner will help you get your year started and provide you with helpful resources throughout 2023.

Sam Seidel, an internationally known educator, speaker, and author, and the K12 Lab Director of Strategy + Research at Stanford's d.school, sits down to talk about creativity, hip-hop culture, strength through vulnerability, and the joyful feedback loop of self care and inspired results.

Haris Alisic sits down to examine the do's and don'ts of good marketing strategy, identifying your audience through their social media behavior, and how to sift through the data generated by those habits.

In this episode, we introduce The LCG Foundation, a nonprofit organization that exists to better the lives of educators by providing direct-to-educator grants. We discuss how the Foundation began, our mission, and what we've accomplished so far. We also reveal some high-level findings about the K-12 education grant space AND at the end of the episode, we announce something super special for Giving Tuesday. Featuring Leoni Consulting Group team members Elana Leoni (CEO & Chairman of the LCG Foundation), Jen Gibson (LCG Account Manager), Anna Fields (LCG Project Manager) and Porter Palmer (LCG Foundation board member and LCG Director of Joy).

Whether you're an EdTech startup navigating cybersecurity issues or an educator concerned about privacy and safety when purchasing EdTech products, listen to Emily McDonnell, VP of Trust and Safety at Remind. Emily sits down to talk about the Safety by Design principle, how to navigate and understand a privacy policy, the future of trust and security in EdTech, and why communication around these issues is so critical for everyone.

If you want to comprehend the nuts and bolts of content marketing, speak with https://www.linkedin.com/in/anniegalvinteich/ (Annie Teich). A highly regarded writer and EdTech industry marketing communications specialist, Annie sits down with Elana Leoni, CEO of Leoni Consulting Group, to explain the goals of content marketing, the differences between education and other market sectors, and some basic copywriting best practices. Annie mentions some great resources, which you can find below and we also provide highlights of a fun and instructive conversation.