Use of technology in education to improve learning and teaching
POPULARITY
Categories
“It wasn't a profession, it was a way of life,” observes internationally respected psychiatrist Dr. Nasser Loza, reflecting on a century-long family legacy in mental health care that began when his grandfather founded The Behman Hospital in Cairo. In this candid Raise the Line conversation with host Michael Carrese, Dr. Loza traces the transformation of psychiatry he's witnessed in his long career as increases in classifications, payment bureaucracy, reliance on pharmaceuticals, and technological disruption have each left their mark. The cumulative costs associated with these changes have, he laments, pushed care out of reach for many and hindered the human connection that is key to the discipline. He describes his prescription for countering these trends as a focus on effective and modest aims. “Rather than saying, come and see me in therapy for five years and I will make a better person out of you, I think focusing on symptom-targeted help is going to be what is needed.” In this wide-ranging interview, you'll also learn about progress on advancing the rights of mental health patients and lowering stigmas, how to manage the rise of online therapy and use of AI chatbots, and the importance of empathy and transparency in mental health counseling. Don't miss this valuable perspective on a critically important dimension of healthcare that's informed by decades of experience as a clinician, government official and global advocate. Mentioned in this episode:The Behman HospitalMaadi Psychology Center If you like this podcast, please share it on your social channels. You can also subscribe to the series and check out all of our episodes at www.osmosis.org/podcast
In this episode, I chat with Digital Learning Coach Lisa Hockenberry about using audio in student projects like podcasts to help students creatively showcase their learning. You'll also hear how Lisa supports teachers with practical tips for integrating digital tools plus how audio can empower all learners—especially those who struggle with traditional assignments. If you want to boost student engagement, foster authentic expression, and make room for a little creative “mess,” this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2025/10/21/student-projects-342/ Sponsored by Kira: https://www.kira-learning.com Follow Lisa Hockenberry on social: https://x.com/TechieCoach303 Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/
“When I was in medical school, no one had even heard of mitochondrial disease. Today, every student who graduates here knows what it is and has seen a patient with it,” says Dr. Mary Kay Koenig, director of the Center for the Treatment of Pediatric Neurodegenerative Disease at UTHealth Houston McGovern Medical School. That remarkable change in awareness has been accompanied by advances in genetic sequencing, the development of clinical guidelines, and the emergence of potential treatments in some forms of mitochondrial disease. In fact, Dr. Koenig's multidisciplinary team at UTHealth's Mitochondrial Center of Excellence has been a key player in clinical trials that may yield the first FDA-approved treatments for it. As you'll learn in this Year of the Zebra conversation with host Michael Carrese, her work in neurodegenerative diseases also includes tuberous sclerosis, where advanced therapies have replaced the need for repeated surgeries, and Leigh Syndrome, which has seen improvements in diagnoses and supportive therapies leading to better quality of life for patients. Tune in as Dr. Koenig reflects on an era of progress in the space, the rewards of balancing research, teaching and patient care, and the need for more clinicians to center listening, humility and honesty in their approach to caring for rare disease patients and their families.Mentioned in this episode:Mitochondrial Center of ExcellenceCenter for the Treatment of Pediatric Neurodegenerative Disease If you like this podcast, please share it on your social channels. You can also subscribe to the series and check out all of our episodes at www.osmosis.org/podcast
John Klyczek discusses his latest research into how the Trump administration and PayPal Mafia are merging AI, edtech, fintech, and IDtech to form the social credit cybernetics system. We also go into overdrive and get esoteric beyond the Overton window, exploring how the Legacy Alternative Media (LAM) has been manufactured by The Powers That Be to steer us all toward their new order. Watch on BitChute / Brighteon / Rumble / Substack / YouTube *Support Geopolitics & Empire! Become a Member https://geopoliticsandempire.substack.com Donate https://geopoliticsandempire.com/donations Consult https://geopoliticsandempire.com/consultation **Visit Our Affiliates & Sponsors! Above Phone https://abovephone.com/?above=geopolitics easyDNS (15% off with GEOPOLITICS) https://easydns.com Escape The Technocracy (15% off with GEOPOLITICS) https://escapethetechnocracy.com/geopolitics Expat Money Summit 2025 (20% off VIP with EMPIRE) https://2025.expatmoneysummit.com Outbound Mexico https://outboundmx.com PassVult https://passvult.com Sociatates Civis https://societates-civis.com StartMail https://www.startmail.com/partner/?ref=ngu4nzr Wise Wolf Gold https://www.wolfpack.gold/?ref=geopolitics Websites Website https://www.schoolworldorder.info School World Order: The Technocratic Globalization of Corporatized Education https://trineday.com/products/school-world-order X https://x.com/ProfessorTaoist Unlimited Hangout https://unlimitedhangout.com/author/john-klyczek About John Klyczek John Klyczek has an MA in English and has taught college rhetoric and research argumentation for over a decade. His literary scholarship concentrates on the history of global eugenics and Aldous Huxley's dystopic novel, Brave New World. He is the author of School World Order: The Technocratic Globalization of Corporatized Education (TrineDay Books); and he is a contributor to several publications, including New Politics, OpEdNews, and the Activist Post. Klyczek holds a black belt in classical tae kwon do, and he is a certified kickboxing instructor under the international Muay Thai Boxing Association. His website is https://schoolworldorder.info *Podcast intro music is from the song "The Queens Jig" by "Musicke & Mirth" from their album "Music for Two Lyra Viols": http://musicke-mirth.de/en/recordings.html (available on iTunes or Amazon)
In Episode 263 of the House of #EdTech podcast, Chris Nesi steps back from the gadgets, apps, and AI tools to remind educators what truly powers learning — education itself. While technology continues to reshape classrooms, Chris explores why human connection, curiosity, and lifelong learning remain at the heart of every meaningful educational experience. This reflective episode offers both inspiration and practical strategies for making learning more personal, purposeful, and people-centered — with technology as the support, not the driver. Key Topics Discussed: Why education matters beyond technology “Education is the great equalizer” — unpacking what that really means Educated by Tara Westover: A must-read memoir about resilience and learning The real power of learning: curiosity, connection, and contribution Historical examples of education changing lives (Malala, GI Bill) Practical tips for meaningful teaching in a tech-driven world 5 Practical Takeaways: Focus on relationships first — learning starts with connection. Make reflection part of the learning process. Model lifelong learning for your students and peers. Use technology with intention, not obligation. Connect learning to the real world. #EdTech Recommendation: Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover — a powerful reminder of education's transformative potential.
“Giving learners options gives them a better learning experience. It's more holistic and more comprehensive,” says Sean Moloney, CEO and founder of EmbodyXR, an extended reality platform focused on the use of immersive technologies in medical education. In this eye-opening Raise the Line conversation, Moloney explains how AI-powered extended reality (XR) --which integrates augmented, virtual, and simulation-based environments -- allows learners to interact with patients, explore multiple diagnostic choices, and experience varied outcomes based on their decisions. The result, he notes, is not only stronger engagement in learning, but a measurable improvement in understanding. Despite these gains, Moloney is quick to point out that he sees these technologies as complements to traditional training, not substitutes for it. “We'll never replace in-person teaching,” he says, “but we can make learners even better.” Beyond training future clinicians, the EmbodyXR platform is also offering new modes of patient and caregiver education, such as augmented reality guidance for using medical devices at home. Join host Lindsey Smith as she explores how EmbodyXR achieves and maintains clinical accuracy, the connectivity it offers between headsets, personal computers and mobile devices, and other capabilities that are shaping the future of how healthcare professionals and patients will learn. Mentioned in this episode:EmbodyXR If you like this podcast, please share it on your social channels. You can also subscribe to the series and check out all of our episodes at www.osmosis.org/podcast
In this exclusive episode of An Educated Guest, host Todd Zipper sits down with John Baker, the visionary Founder and CEO of D2L. John shares the remarkable 25-year journey of D2L, tracing its evolution from a student startup into a publicly traded global learning platform. The conversation explores the massive industry shift from simply managing content to building a "true perpetual learning platform" that serves K-12, higher education, and corporate clients. John argues that AI is the critical enabler—the final piece of the puzzle that will solve chronic issues like lack of personalization and high student failure rates, making models like competency-based education easier to implement than ever before. He provides a fascinating look at SkillsWave, discussing why employers are demanding stackable micro-credentials and why the future of education is less about the traditional degree and more about building skills for "more caring, more impactful work." John also addresses the challenge of AI-enabled cheating and offers a bold prediction for how personalization will redefine quality education in the next decade.Key Takeaways from this Episode:The Power of AI in the LMS: How D2L's generative AI tool, LUMI, is already transforming the faculty workflow by automating assignment and quiz creation, freeing up time for human mentorship.Competency-Based Education (CBE): Why CBE, long seen as theoretical, is now poised for mainstream adoption, thanks to AI simplifying the difficult work of mapping skills and creating personalized pathways.The Global Advantage: Insights into how D2L achieved market leadership in countries like Singapore and Canada by obsessing over client problems and incorporating local innovations into its global product.Building Enduring Companies: John's advice on how a relentless focus on solving the client's biggest problem—and treating change as a constant—is the only sustainable strategy in EdTech.About Our Guest:John Baker is the Founder and CEO of D2L and the Executive Chairman of SkillsWave. He successfully led D2L through its IPO and remains a driving force in its strategic direction. He is recognized globally for his expertise in learning science, technology, and the future of work.
Most people think leadership is something reserved for executives in boardrooms. Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio are here to flip that script completely.In this episode, Jason sits down with the duo behind "Lead It Like Lasso" to explore why leadership isn't just about managing teams—it's about managing yourself first. They dig into the messy, beautiful truth that whether you're running a company, teaching a classroom, or navigating your family relationships, you're already leading in some way. The question is: are you doing it well?Marnie and Nick share how they went from working at the largest EdTech company in the world to starting, scaling, and selling their own business in three years. Their secret? A framework built on core values, self-awareness, and the kind of relatable leadership that doesn't require you to be Richard Branson.Jason pushes into the practical side of things—how do you actually discover your core values without staring at a blank page? How do you lead yourself when you feel stuck? And why does thinking about your legacy matter when you're just trying to get through the day?The conversation also touches on their latest book "The Business of You," which challenges listeners to run their lives with the same intention they'd bring to running a successful company. Because at the end of the day, the most important project you'll ever work on is you.If you've ever felt like leadership books are written for someone else, this episode is for you.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/105
In this episode, I share five interactive vocabulary strategies and five EdTech tools to help students build vocabulary skills across all subject areas. You'll also hear how AI-powered tools can personalize learning, reinforce key terms, and make vocabulary instruction more engaging. If you want to incorporate technology to support vocabulary acquisition in meaningful and dynamic ways, this episode is for you! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2025/10/14/vocabulary-strategies-341/ onsored by my Easy EdTech Club: https://www.EasyEdTechClub.com Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/
Why has America struggled so much to effectively manage the opioid use crisis? One of the answers, as you'll learn in this eye-opening episode of Raise the Line, is rooted in laws and attitudes from the early 20th century that removed addiction from the realm of medicine and defined it as a moral failing. “The federal Harrison Act of 1914 forbade any physician from prescribing opioids to people with addiction, so it became more the purview of law enforcement or behavioral health or religion,” says Dr. Melody Glenn, who regularly confronts the consequences of this history during shifts in the emergency department at Banner-University Medical Center in Tucson, Arizona. And as Glenn explains to host Caleb Furnas, the resulting stigma associated with addiction has extended to the treatments for it as well, especially methadone, despite its effectiveness. Drawing on her dual expertise in emergency and addiction medicine, Glenn dispels misconceptions that medication-assisted treatment merely replaces one addiction with another, and emphasizes that harm reduction is critical to saving lives. Her desire to break prevailing stigmas led her to discover the story of Dr. Marie Nyswander, who pioneered methadone maintenance therapy in the 1960s and is featured in Dr. Glenn's new book, Mother of Methadone: A Doctor's Quest, a Forgotten History, and a Modern-Day Crisis. You'll leave this instructive interview understanding the roots of our flawed approach to addiction treatment, meeting an overlooked pioneer in the field, and admiring a devoted and compassionate physician who is following in her footsteps. Mentioned in this episode:Banner-University Medical CenterMother of Methadone book If you like this podcast, please share it on your social channels. You can also subscribe to the series and check out all of our episodes at www.osmosis.org/podcast
Nikole Blanchard, Director of Innovation and Technology at The Dunham School, joins the podcast to discuss her leadership philosophy. She shares how to foster an approachable, innovative culture through project-based learning, providing individualized professional learning for faculty, and empowering campus champions to help spread new ideas and tools effectively.The Dunham School Apple Distinguished Schools:ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education)ASCDSAMR ModelCoSpaces EduCanva
Send us a textDeborah Howes is the President of Howes Studio and a pioneer in digital museum education. With over three decades leading EdTech programs at top cultural institutions including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, the Art Institute of Chicago, and MOCA Los Angeles. She now helps museums and nonprofits transform analog learning into dynamic digital experiences.
My guest this week is John Jorgenson, CMO at Cambium Learning Group. John spent his first seven years at Cambium leading marketing for two of its brands, where he helped grow Learning A-Z into its largest division. Now, as Enterprise CMO, he works alongside the Cambium executive team to shape strategy, creativity, and culture. What sets John apart is his vision—not just to advance education, but to empower his colleagues to do their very best work.From scaling brands to guiding enterprise vision, John's blend of marketing expertise and people-first leadership makes him a compelling voice in edtech.
Send us a textJoin hosts Alex Sarlin and Matt Tower as they break down the biggest headlines shaping the future of education technology. From OpenAI's new video model to major EdTech funding rounds and the rise of curriculum-informed AI.✨ Episode Highlights[00:03:56] EdTech Week 2025 preview at Columbia University featuring OpenAI's education keynote.[00:06:50] SETDA report: AI overtakes cybersecurity as top K–12 tech priority.[00:09:05] OpenAI's Sora 2 video model brings lifelike multimodal AI to education.[00:14:10] Rise of AI actors like “Tilly Norwood” underscores new media literacy concerns.[00:18:30] Code.org launches Hour of AI to expand AI literacy in schools.[00:24:40] Debate: Is “learn to code” still essential in the AI age?[00:29:30] Microsoft Copilot adds Study Mode with shareable learning tools.[00:32:00] Anthology (Blackboard) bankruptcy exposes failed 2021 PE merger.[00:38:10] Funding: LingoKids raises $120M; Outsmart (ex-Duolingo) raises $40M.[00:43:50] National test score slump fuels “End of Thinking” education debate.[00:46:10] Calls for clear new visions of learning in the AI era.Plus, special guests:[00:53:00] Sari Factor, Vice Chair & Chief Strategy Officer, and Jason Fournier, VP of Product Management for AI & Data at Imagine Learning, on curriculum-informed AI.[01:04:00] Caleb Hicks, CEO & Co-founder of SchoolAI, on AI tutors and personalized learning.
“We don't view a person with chronic pain as someone who has a chronic illness and the effect of that is we can't follow patients continuously over prolonged periods of time,” says Dr. Jacob Hascalovici, a neurologist and pain specialist based in New York City. In co-founding Bliss Health, Dr. Jacob, as he is known, has set out to create a continuous care model for chronic pain treatment that matches the approach taken for patients with diabetes or high blood pressure. The Bliss Health formula includes an initial meeting with a physician that produces a care plan; remote therapeutic monitoring on an ongoing basis; and a monthly meeting with a nurse to review data and determine next steps, including additional appointments with physicians as needed. All of this occurs via a digital platform which provides a welcome option for patients with mobility issues and can fill gaps in access to specialists, especially in rural areas. Dr. Jacob is also hoping to make chronic pain patents feel respected, which is not always the case in their encounters with the healthcare system. “Because pain is not something that can be seen or measured, oftentimes patients feel marginalized, dismissed and disempowered by providers.” Join Raise the Line host Lindsey Smith for a valuable conversation that also touches on policy changes that could strengthen telemedicine, and has details on the first non-opioid based pain medication to receive FDA approval in over 20 years.Mentioned in this episode:Bliss Health If you like this podcast, please share it on your social channels. You can also subscribe to the series and check out all of our episodes at www.osmosis.org/podcast
Send us a textVanessa Castañeda Gill, CEO and Co-Founder of Social Cipher and Lucy Stevens, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Social Cipher, lead a majority-neurodivergent team creating social-emotional learning video games that help neurodivergent youth build self-understanding and connections; inspired by Vanessa's experiences as an autistic/ADHD Latina, their games and curriculum are now used in 200+ schools and therapy centers across 8 countries, earning recognition from Forbes 30 Under 30, MIT Solve, and the LEGO Foundation.
In this episode, I chat with Katie Page, an Instructional Technology Coordinator and author of AI Blueprint for Schools, about how her district developed a districtwide strategy for AI in schools grounded in intentionality, inclusion, and real classroom needs. You'll also hear practical tips from her book, including how to build teacher trust, meet staff where they are, and spotlight real use cases to foster buy-in. If you want to design or refine a sustainable districtwide AI strategy rooted in relationships, educator support, and classroom impact, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2025/10/07/strategy-for-ai-in-schools-340/ Sponsored by my Easy EdTech Club: https://www.EasyEdTechClub.com Follow Katie Page on social: https://www.instagram.com/pageedutech Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/
John Danner, co-founder and CEO of Flourish Schools, joins Kerry McDonald to discuss how his new Nashville-based microschool network is reimagining middle school education. Drawing on his experience founding Rocketship Public Schools, Danner explains how Flourish uses AI to automate foundational learning while empowering teachers to focus on students' “superpowers” — curiosity, communication, and leadership. He and Kerry explore the balance between technology and humanity in education, the promise of microschools in ESA states, and what it takes to build joyful learning environments that truly help children flourish. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!
In recent months, public health advocates in the United States have raised concerns about proposed changes to vaccine policy, cuts to food assistance programs, rollbacks of environmental protections and reductions in public health staffing. Chief among them has been Dr. Georges Benjamin who, as executive director of the American Public Health Association (APHA) since 2002, has led national efforts to create a healthier America. Raise the Line host Lindsey Smith recently sat down with Dr. Benjamin to understand more about the current state of public health and explore the path forward, and learned that a top priority for APHA is battling the misinformation that Dr. Benjamin believes is fueling support for many of these changes. “The challenge we have right now is that as a society, we've gone into our little corners and live in our own ecosystems. More people are getting their information from a single source and they're not validating that information to make sure that it's true.” Tune into this thoughtful and timely conversation to hear Dr. Benjamin's advice for curbing the spread of misinformation, how APHA is trying to help people understand the value of public health initiatives, and what the U.S. can learn from other countries about improving public health. Mentioned in this episode:American Public Health Association If you like this podcast, please share it on your social channels. You can also subscribe to the series and check out all of our episodes at www.osmosis.org/podcast
Send us a textImagine an AI tutor that changes color to teach colors, points to an arm to name body parts, and keeps lessons fun without losing focus. That's Buddy AI, a 3D animated study buddy for kids that turns screen time into meaningful learning.In this episode of AI for Kids, host Amber Ivey talks with Ivan Crewkov, the founder of Buddy AI, to explore how a personal challenge of helping his daughter learn English grew into a global learning platform used by over 60 million children.You'll learn how Buddy AI was built from the ground up with AI safety, child privacy, and strong educational design. Ivan shares how Buddy learned from 25,000 hours of kids' voices and accents, creating an AI that truly understands how children speak. Unlike general chatbots, Buddy runs on a purpose-built model stack focused on educational outcomes, guided by a structured curriculum and gamified experiences that make learning playful yet productive.We also talk about Buddy's COPPA-certified privacy standards, including minimal data collection, deletion on request, and a privacy-by-design architecture that keeps conversations secure. Plus, a sneak peek at what's next: a Tamagotchi-style home, customizable virtual pets, and new lessons designed with top mobile game creators.Parents, teachers, and caregivers will walk away with practical tips on choosing safe AI apps for kids, understanding why embodiment matters in AI education, and how to treat AI as a tool, not a toy.Listen now to hear how Buddy AI blends AI, education, and empathy to boost kids' confidence, language skills, and curiosity.Resourced mentioned:Buddy.aiBuddy's YouTube channelBuddy.ai kidSAFE COPPATalking TomTamagotchi Support the showHelp us become the #1 podcast for AI for Kids.Buy our new book "Let Kids Be Kids, Not Robots!: Embracing Childhood in an Age of AI"Social Media & Contact: Website: www.aidigitales.com Email: contact@aidigitales.com Follow Us: Instagram, YouTube Gift or get our books on Amazon or Free AI Worksheets Listen, rate, and subscribe! Stay updated with our latest episodes by subscribing to AI for Kids on your favorite podcast platform. Apple Podcasts Amazon Music Spotify YouTube Other Like our content, subscribe or feel free to donate to our Patreon here: patreon.com/AiDigiTales...
Edtech ThrowdownEpisode 199: Edtech Smorgasboard: 8 Cool Websites for TeachersWelcome to the EdTech Throwdown. This is Episode 199 called Edtech Smorgasboard: 8 Cool Websites for Teachers. In this episode, we have collected a grab-bag of intriguing websites for educators of all kinds. Will one of these be your next digital rabbit hole? Probably! But there is only one way to find out though, listen in now. This is another episode you don't want to miss, check it out.Segment 1: Approaching 200 episodesSegment 2:Kiddo worksheetThe term refers to educational printables designed for children, helping younger students practice basic skills like letters and numbers, and older kids with subjects like math and science. These online resources often offer free, customizable templates for parents and teachers to quickly create engaging learning materials.Radio.gardenTravel around the world AND through time, listening to various radio station recordings. Super fascinating and could be used in a variety of history, geography, sociology projects.Tv.gardenTv.gardenis a free streaming platform that grants users access to thousands of live television channels from across the globe without requiring a subscription. You can browse streams by country or content category, making it a great tool for watching international news, sports, and entertainment.NASA's Solar System TreksVirtual reality treks using real time data returned from nasa's fleet of spacecraft. You can Trek in the browser on a computer OR scan a QR and use virtual reality and your phone. Choose a trek, scan a qr code, and explore right on your phone.Drivelisten.comDrivelisten.comis a popular web app that offers a unique virtual travel experience, allowing users to take a simulated drive, walk, or cycle through major cities worldwide. While cruising the streets, you can listen to a synchronized stream of the city's actual local radio stations, with the option to turn on road noise for a fully immersive feel.Gem...
Gravity - The Digital Agency Power Up : Weekly shows for digital marketing agency owners.
If you've ever wondered how your personal brand shows up online, you've probably focused on Google. But the game is changing. The rise of AI search means we need a new way to think about our digital presence. Getting this right is no longer just an option; it's essential for anyone looking to build, market, and monetise their expertise.In this episode, I speak with Jason Barnard about the monumental shift from traditional search to AI-assistive engine optimisation. We explore the unique opportunity this presents for experts and small businesses to take control of their narrative and build a powerful digital legacy.Here are some of the key areas we discussed:
Send us a textJanak Panchal and Rishan Dutia are cofounders of CoGuide, an AI classroom assistant that plans lessons and runs live discussions in 30+ languages. Janak, a former assistant guide with 250+ socratic discussions sessions within the Acton Academy Network, built the first MVP. Rishan leads engineering and builds the Vision OS for hand-raising and participation analytics.
When the pandemic pushed school into our homes, screens became the new classroom and we never went back. But what has this shift cost our kids? In this episode, Nicki Petrossi sits down with writer and parent Lila Byock to talk about the hidden consequences of remote learning, the influence of EdTech companies, and the mental health toll of too much screen time. Lila shares her personal journey navigating her children's experience with tech at school, and why she believes parents must speak up to demand real safeguards. Lila Byock is an Emmy-winning television writer and the founder of Schools Beyond Screens, a grassroots coalition of parents and teachers fighting for safer tech in LA's public schools. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, two tween boys, and one scruffy rescue mutt.Resources and templates for parents by Schools Beyond Screens can be found here.
After 18 years at Citigroup, Nitin Gour discovered a critical gap: schools teach academics, but not the life skills needed for real-world success. In this episode of The Education Concierge Podcast Season 10: Legacy in Progress, host Benita G. sits down with the founder of Bloomster to discuss why self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience matter more than test scores.In This Episode:Why being good at your craft isn't enough in the professional worldHow to prepare kids for an AI-dominated futureThe difference between teaching concepts vs. building habitsWhy life skills need to be taught intentionally, not left to chanceNavigating AI in education while preserving critical thinkingKey Quote: "Success isn't just about career milestones or material achievements. It's about how we navigate through life and how joyful and fulfilling that journey is."Resources Mentioned:Bloomster.com - 14-day free trialFree eBooks for assessing your child's skillsPhD-designed courses on self-confidence, focus, decision-making & moreConnect with Nitin Gour:Website: bloomster.comEmail: contact@bloomster.comAbout Season 10:The Education Concierge Podcast Season 10: Legacy in Progress features disruptors who are dismantling traditional education while building something better. These conversations with educators, entrepreneurs, and innovators will inspire you to create meaningful change in your community and beyond.Subscribe for more conversations that disrupt the traditional, honor the journey, and build what's next in education!#EdTech #LifeSkills #EducationInnovation #AIinEducation #ParentingTips #MiddleSchool #SocialEmotionalLearning
In this week's episode, our storytellers face life-or-death moments they'll never forget.Part 1: On a trip to Colombia for a research conference, biologist Stephanie Galla must rely on her fight-or-flight instincts when she is cornered by a mugger with a knife. Part 2: An ordinary day takes a shocking turn when Kim Weaver is struck by lightning. Stephanie Galla is an Assistant Professor in avian biology at Boise State University. She is interested in interdisciplinary conservation efforts for species in decline, and in particular, how genomic technologies can inform management decisions. Using DNA, her research team explores whether birds (including grouse and raptors) have the adaptive capacity to be resilient in a changing world. Outside of her everyday work life, she enjoys bird watching, making art, taking care of her backyard chickens, and watching TV with her husband and cat. Kim Weaver is a long-time storyteller and occasional guest host at Story Night in Bremerton, but she cut her storytelling chops as a high school math and engineering teacher. (No matter how much you heckle, you will not be as brutal as a room full of Algebra I students.) She has also told plenty of ocean tales as a Science Communication Fellow aboard the E/V Nautilus. Kim lives in Poulsbo, Washington where her primary role is meeting the demands of a high-maintenance corgi named Bird, but her actual job is providing STEM and EdTech support to teachers throughout the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Send us a textJoin hosts Alex Sarlin and Ben Kornell as they dive into the latest headlines shaping the future of education technology, from AI tutors and Gallup polls to new VR career pathways and the impact of phone bans in schools. ✨ Episode Highlights: [00:03:38] Mashable compares AI tutors from OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic[00:10:45] Gallup poll shows confidence in K-12 at all-time low [00:15:48] CZI launches Learning Commons open-source AI infrastructure [00:20:41] CZI + Anthropic partnership expands AI tools for edtech [00:23:31] Kahoot unveils new AI-powered study tools [00:26:26] Phone bans spread in U.S. schools with positive results [00:29:53] Higher ed faces declining international applications and demographic cliff Plus, special guests: [00:36:24] Nick Chen, Founder of PlayMath.org, on educational gaming and product lessons [01:00:40] Jamie Candee, CEO of Edmentum, on career pathways, durable skills, and VR workforce prep
“Probably the most exciting thing I've seen in gene therapy over the last ten years is we now have a lot of tools for selective delivery, which will hopefully make treatments more safe and a lot more successful,” says Dr. Jessica Duis, a geneticist and pediatrician focused on the management of individuals with complex, rare disorders. Dr. Duis, who has worked on several gene therapies that are now approved or progressing through the accelerated approval pathway, is currently VP of Clinical Development at GondolaBio, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapeutics for genetic diseases. As you'll learn in this Year of the Zebra episode with host Lindsey Smith, Dr. Duis is encouraged by other recent advances in genetic technology as well, and thinks momentum will grow as breakthrough treatments emerge. “I think we're hopefully going to continue to see companies that are working in rare disease be more successful and really drive how regulators think about making decisions in terms of bringing treatments to patients. I think we're at the tip of the iceberg in terms of the future of truly transformational therapies.” This wide ranging conversation also explores Dr. Duis' team approach to patient care, her work on clinical endpoints, the importance of patient communities, and her book series, Rare Siblings Stories.Mentioned in this episode:GondolaBioRareDiseaseDocElsevier Healthcare Hub on Rare DiseasesRare Sibling Stories If you like this podcast, please share it on your social channels. You can also subscribe to the series and check out all of our episodes at www.osmosis.org/podcast
In this powerful episode of An Educated Guest, host Todd Zipper sits down with Michael Moe, Founder and CEO of GSV Ventures, to discuss the seismic shifts occurring across the entire learning ecosystem. Michael, who was a key figure in analyzing the first online education boom, shares his perspective on the current state of education, which he describes as a mix of "chaos and dynamic opportunity." The conversation moves from the historical rise and fall of institutions like the University of Phoenix to the present-day impact of AI. Michael makes a compelling case that AI will accelerate the need for continuous, lifelong learning and discusses his framework of the Seven C's—the foundational, durable skills required for success in the 21st-century workforce. He also offers an unvarnished view of the K-12 and Higher Education funding landscape, highlighting how the rise of school choice and the immense burden of student debt are creating both a crisis and a golden age for innovative education models. Michael concludes by offering his bullish take on why now is the ideal time to invest capital in the EdTech space.Key Takeaways from this Episode:The Shift from Degree to Skills: Why the degree is no longer the sole ticket to prosperity, and how employers are moving to skills-based hiring.The Power of Invisible Learning: How gamification and new models will thread learning into our daily lives, making it continuous and engaging.School Choice and Accountability: Michael's belief that school choice, supported by 75% of Americans, is forcing necessary market accountability onto the entire K-12 system.The Investment Thesis: Why EdTech valuations are "dramatically too pessimistic" and why the industry's talent and opportunity have never been stronger.A Bold Prediction: Michael's long-term vision for American education to reclaim its status as the "best in the world," where "elite means excellence, not scarcity."About Our Guest:Michael Moe is the Founder and CEO of GSV Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on the multi-trillion-dollar education and future of work sectors. He is the co-founder of the ASU GSV Summit and is renowned for his expertise in analyzing disruptive, high-growth businesses.
Guest host Dr. Jenna Copper, an Assistant Professor of Education at Slippery Rock University and a former high school English teacher, shares her top three classroom technology tools that every middle and high school teacher should know: Padlet, Canva, and Gimkit.Whether you're teaching in person, in a hybrid setting, or online, these tools are ideal for enhancing student engagement, creativity, and collaboration. Learn how to use Padlet for interactive discussions, Canva for eye-catching classroom visuals, and Gimkit to gamify review sessions in a fun way. Perfect for:Secondary educatorsInstructional technology coachesTeachers looking for easy-to-use EdTech toolsAnyone wanting to increase student voice and interactionAdditionally, Dr. Copper shares practical classroom tips, creative ideas, and strategies to make these tools work for you regardless of your tech comfort level.Follow Dr. Jenna Copper on Instagram and TikTok @DrJennaCopper for daily teaching strategies and EdTech inspiration.Show notes can be found here: www.sfecich.com/podcastConnect with Dr. Sam FecichWant to keep the conversation going beyond the blog? I'd love to connect with you! Whether you're a future educator, a current teacher, or someone passionate about edtech and innovation in the classroom, there are plenty of ways to stay inspired and supported.Discover Your Student Teacher Superpower. Take the free quiz: What's Your Student Teacher Superpower? and uncover your unique strengths in the classroom!Join the Conversation on Instagram. Tag me @sfecich with your thoughts and takeaways.Remember, EDUmagicians...You have the EduMagic within you. Keep shining, keep growing, and keep making a difference.
Send us a textIn this special episode, we spotlight the Global EdTech Prize 2025 with founder Vikas Pota of T4 Education and six inspiring finalists from around the world.
In this episode, we'll break down the steps to easily create personalized educational videos for students. You'll hear my top tips, from selecting the perfect tool to making your video accessible with captions and QR codes. If you're looking to capture your students' attention and make classroom learning more engaging, this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2025/09/30/educational-videos-339/ Sponsored by my Amazon Storefront: https://ClassTechTips.com/amazon Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/
Send us a textJulie Stewart and Scott Stewart, award-winning creators behind global children's shows for Disney, Netflix, and Sesame Workshop, co-founded Nurture with serial entrepreneur Roger Egan, former CEO of RedMart, and learning expert Musa Roshdy, a Minerva University alum and advisor at Transcend Network, to build future-ready skills through immersive play.
For episode 608 of the BlockHash Podcast, host Brandon Zemp is joined by RJ Holder, Senior Director & Digital Product Management for NAF.RJ Holder, based in Atlanta, GA, is the Senior Director, Digital Product Management at NAF, which is an education nonprofit that supports career-focused high school academies. These academies focus on fields like IT, Finance, Accounting, and Health Science. RJ is here to talk about KnoPro, which is a free platform launched by NAF two years ago that gives high school students meaningful work-based learning experiences they can highlight on resumes and college applications. Current Challenge is sponsored by KPMG.https://www.knopro.org/challenges/ai-startups-challenge/overview ⏳ Timestamps: (0:00) Introduction(1:12) Who is RJ Holder?(5:13) What is NAF and KnoPro?(11:46) KnoPro for High School students(16:22) How can students access KnoPro?(18:48) Skillbuilders & Challenges(25:19) AI for Startups Challenge(26:46) How can parents be involved?(29:24) How can companies participate?(31:35) How can teachers provide KnoPro to their students?(34:04) Future of NAF and KnoPro
In this episode, Sean and Kelly welcome Pritesh Patel, a computer scientist specializing in AI who brings over 20 years of experience from companies like Turner Broadcasting, Walmart, and GE to his current role at Fisher Phillips law firm. Pritesh shares fascinating insights about implementing AI in knowledge-based industries, from automating his parents' frozen yogurt shop to helping lawyers transform their workflows. The conversation explores crucial concepts like the "Jobs to Be Done" framework, which emphasizes focusing on outcomes rather than getting stuck in existing processes. Pritesh explains how he approaches AI education through playfulness and intuition-building—whether that's getting Batman to sing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" in ChatGPT or creating AI personalities that debate humans. The discussion touches on the importance of maintaining accountability while delegating responsibility to AI tools, the power of curiosity in adoption, and how reinforcement learning might shape the future of AI integration. Key resources mentioned: - Strategyn Jobs to Be Done Framework (https://strategyn.com/) - Tony Ulwick's innovation methodology - NotebookLM (https://notebooklm.google.com/) - Google's AI-powered research tool - Suno.ai (https://suno.com/) - AI music generation platform - OpenAI's Real-time API for voice interactions Special Guest: Pritesh Patel.
Captivate Your Classroom with Dr. Marc IsseksIn this episode of My EdTech Life, I sit down with Dr. Marc Isseks, author of Captivate, to explore how educators can break free from “cognitive entrenchment” and rediscover what it means to truly engage learners. Marc brings over 30 years of classroom, curriculum, and leadership experience, and his insights will challenge the way you think about teaching, technology, and student voice.We dig into why success can sometimes stop us from growing, how teachers can overcome rigidity and the dreaded phrase “this is the way we've always done it,” and why technology should be treated as a microphone, not an encyclopedia. Marc shares stories that will resonate with every educator—from rethinking assessment to giving students choice and voice in their learning.Whether you're a classroom teacher, administrator, or EdTech leader, this conversation will spark reflection and give you fresh ideas to amplify student engagement and your own growth as an educator.Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to My EdTech Life + Sponsor shoutout 01:00 – Introducing Dr. Marc Isseks and his 31 years in education 04:00 – The story behind Captivate and why he wrote it 08:00 – Breaking cognitive entrenchment in schools 12:00 – Test #3 story: why success can stall innovation 16:00 – Technology shifts: from Tic-Tac-Toe to TikTok 21:00 – Engagement vs. learning: choosing the right apps 25:00 – Tech as a microphone, not an encyclopedia 30:00 – Process over product: lessons from Pixar 35:00 – The three new R's: remixing, recording, researching 40:00 – Reframing screen time, dopamine, and classrooms 44:00 – Marc's biggest takeaways for educators 47:00 – Rapid-fire closing questions 48:30 – How to connect with Marc + final thoughts Big thanks to our amazing sponsors for supporting this mission:Book Creator – where student stories come to life Eduaide.ai – empowering teachers with smarter tools Yellowdig – building communities that thriveStay inspired. Stay innovative. Stay Techie!Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show
Send us a textJean-Claude Brizard is President and CEO of Digital Promise, a global, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization focused on accelerating innovation in education. He is the former Chief Executive of Chicago Public Schools and Superintendent of Rochester, NY. Previously, he spent 21 years with the NYC Department of Education, serving as Regional Superintendent for 100+ schools and Executive Director for 400 secondary schools. He also served as Senior Advisor and Deputy Director at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, leading strategies to close racial and economic achievement gaps and supporting charter school growth.
Send us a textJoin hosts Alex Sarlin and Ben Kornell as they dive into the biggest stories shaping education technology this week:✨ Episode Highlights:[00:04:32] OpenAI study shows teaching and tutoring are ChatGPT's top global use cases [00:10:50] Parents testify in Congress about risks of unsafe AI chatbots for kids [00:19:38] Google announces “Learn Your Way” and AI video generation for YouTube [00:22:47] Shift from SEO to AEO as answer engines reshape discovery [00:26:39] UK secures $40B in AI investment and Indian edtech funding rebounds post-Byju's[00:29:23] Babbel launches AI voice trainer and McGraw Hill adds AI to ALEKS calculus [00:31:09] Superintendent turnover rises while principals gain influence in EdTech decisionsPlus, special guest: [00:34:29] Christine Cruzvergara, Chief Education Strategy Officer at Handshake, on redefining entry-level jobs in the AI era and launching the Handshake AI Fellowship
No Priors: Artificial Intelligence | Machine Learning | Technology | Startups
What if kids could master their academics in just two hours a day and spend the rest of their time developing real-world skills they're passionate about? Joe Liemandt, founder of the software company Trilogy, is doing just that. Sarah Guo and Elad Gil are joined by Joe Liemandt, principal of Alpha School, to discuss his AI-driven vision of reinventing K-12 education. Joe talks about the strategies that Alpha School employs: reducing the traditional six-hour school day to two, replacing teachers with “Guides,” using financial incentives as motivation, and dedicating the remainder of the school day to project-based workshops that reflect the students' passions. Together, they also examine Joe's plan to scale Alpha School, the youth mental health crisis, and why edtech so far has failed. Sign up for new podcasts every week. Email feedback to show@no-priors.com Follow us on Twitter: @NoPriorsPod | @Saranormous | @EladGil | @AlphaSchoolATX Chapters: 00:00 – Joe Liemandt Introduction 00:27 – From Trilogy to Alpha School 02:45 – How Joe Changed His Mind About Alpha School 04:16 – Reenvisioning the School Day 09:06 – An Example Day at Alpha School 20:13 – Educating Based on Motivations 22:56 – Incentives-Based Learning 24:40 – Standards for Guides 26:39 – Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Motivators 35:12 – Tackling Learning Differences 39:13 – Alpha School Pricing Structure 43:08 – Education Tech at Alpha School 44:54 – Rebuilding Education in the AI Age 48:43 – Reforming Education Policy 56:25 – Ed Tech as a Product 58:58 – Fixing Gaps in Education 59:45 – Why Education is Joe's Mission 01:01:49 – Conclusion
With nearly one in ten newborns in the US requiring care in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the importance of NICUs has never been more clear. On today's episode of Raise the Line, we're shining a light on the extraordinary world of NICUs with Lindsay Howard, a veteran nurse with over 17 years of experience caring for premature and critically ill infants. She currently works in a Level IV NICU at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, one of the most advanced neonatal units in the country. “We call ourselves ‘the ER of the neonate world' because we're never full. We have to make space no matter what comes in off the street, and at the biggest medical center in the world, we see all the things,” she explains. In this enlightening conversation with host Lindsey Smith, Howard describes how advances in medicine have made it possible to provide more types of care for younger and smaller babies, creating a need for NICU nurses to develop subspecialties. In her case, Howard is on a dedicated team that handles the placement and maintenance of all central line IVs, and has earned certifications in neonatal and pediatric chemotherapy and biotherapies. “We see babies that we may not have seen before being born with cancerous tumors who need chemotherapy to try and eliminate it, or just give them more time with their family.” This is a revealing look inside the workings of a top tier NICU where you'll learn about approaches to care that support healthy neurodevelopment, how clinical staff handle the emotional challenges of the job, and how her own experience as a mother with twins needing NICU care impacted her work. Mentioned in this episode:Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital If you like this podcast, please share it on your social channels. You can also subscribe to the series and check out all of our episodes at www.osmosis.org/raisethelinepodcast
Send us a textNaria Santa Lucia is the General Manager of Elevate at Microsoft, where she leads global education, workforce, and skilling programs that have already reached over 100 million learners. With 20+ years of experience across corporate, nonprofit, and international organizations, she has partnered with the UN, World Bank, and Ministries of Education worldwide to advance AI, cybersecurity, and sustainability skills.
** Episode Sponsor: Google Trainer Academy: GoogleTrainerAcademy.com ** Over the past month I've been able to visit a half-dozen different schools across the US sharing tips and ideas for using AI in the classroom. While there are a LOT of AI tools available, there's one that I think is at the top of the list: Google Gemini. Gemini has become my go-to AI tool. It's fast, flexible, safe, and free! Using Gemini with your school account means you get advanced features AND data privacy that's not included with a lot of other applications (looking at you ChatGPT!). If you haven't used Gemini recently, take another look...there have been a LOT of update and several new features specifically designed for the classroom. Here are some of my favorite features and ideas... Show notes and links: https://www.chrmbook.com/s9e9/ ----------------------------- Thanks for tuning into the Chromebook Classroom Podcast! If you enjoyed today's episode, I would appreciate your honest rating and review! You can connect with me, John Sowash, on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. I would love to hear your thoughts on the show!
The local founders of a successful education software business have begun a fund to invest in local startups.
Joining me is Ash Brandin, educator and author of Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family. Ash brings a fresh, nonjudgmental perspective to how families can navigate technology with intention and respect. Together we explore: - Why the “less is better” approach to screens often creates guilt and power struggles, plus a strategy that is more effective. - How to use Ash's “ABCs of screen time” framework (access, behavior, and content) to make intentional choices that meet everyone's needs. - The importance of respect and collaboration in setting screen boundaries (and boundaries in general) which help kids learn to be active participants, not passive rule-followers. - How video games are a form of play that, used intentionally, can build autonomy, resilience, and connection. - Practical strategies to help kids notice their internal states, regulate emotions, and transfer those skills beyond screens. Whether you're navigating video games, phones, or family movie nights, this conversation offers practical tools and a compassionate perspective to help your whole family build a healthier relationship with technology. LEARN MORE ABOUT MY GUEST:
In this episode, I chat with curriculum supervisor and educator Amir Taron Ayres about effective AI strategies for lesson planning and instructional leadership. You'll also hear how educators are using artificial intelligence tools to unpack standards, design lessons, and support diverse learners. Tune in to explore practical, ethical, and mindset-shifting ways to integrate AI into your teaching practice! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2025/09/23/ai-strategies-338/ Sponsored by my Amazon Storefront: https://ClassTechTips.com/amazon Follow Amir Taron Ayres on social: https://x.com/amirtaronED Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/
Send us a textDave Messer is a Product Manager on Google's Learning & Education team, leads product for emerging learning initiatives, including Learning Labs and Gemini. A former teacher with masters degrees in software engineering and education, he works with experts and the education community to build products that target real-world challenges for educators and students.
Show Notes: Diego kicks off the conversation with a quick review of his career path, which included working at a business school in Barcelona, consulting in biotech and healthcare, and working as product manager and product running product groups. He then went back to business school. He talks about his job at the business school in Barcelona and what prompted him to take it. He explains that the opportunity arose through a professor he knew, and the timing of the 1992 Olympics made it hard to resist. He shares his insights on Catalonia's cultural differences and the importance of knowing Catalan. Educational Toys and Founding Imagination Supply Co. Diego's current work is with educational toys and ed tech. He discusses his exposure to the case study method of teaching, which he found valuable and enjoyable and describes his transition from biotech to setting up a maker space at his daughter's school and becoming a resident tinkerer. He explains the challenges he faced with existing products for teaching electronics and coding, leading him to start Imagination Supply Co. Diego introduces the product line "Electrify" and its focus on making learning about electronics and coding engaging and accessible. The Very Useful Monster Project Design Diego elaborates on the "Very Useful Monster" project, which teaches coding through a constructivist learning approach. He discusses the importance of creating products that align with how he believes these subjects should be taught. Diego shares examples of his products, such as a vibrating motor project for exploring the engineering process. He contrasts the traditional pinewood derby project with his approach, emphasizing the importance of iterative learning. Addressing the “Fear Pyramid” The conversation turns to the impact of Diego's products on students and teachers. Diego highlights the engagement and transformation he sees in students who build and code their own projects. He notes the unexpected benefit of making teaching more accessible to teachers, who often feel intimidated by STEM subjects. Diego explains the concept of the "fear pyramid" in teaching, where teachers feel increasingly uncomfortable with more advanced subjects like coding. Diego's Background as a Tinkerer Diego has a history as a tinkerer and he talks about his interest in building things. He recounts his experience at Harvard, where he took a machine shop class and built a cannon as a project. He shares his independent study project to measure the power output of a cyclist's pedal stroke, which involved designing and building a full pedal. Maker Spaces in Education Diego explains the initial enthusiasm and funding for maker spaces, particularly through DARPA's Mentor Maker Spaces program. He discusses the various goals of maker spaces, such as teaching hands-on making, STEM, and problem-solving through design thinking. Diego highlights the challenges of articulating the purpose of maker spaces and the different approaches taken by schools like Nueva and Lick-Wilmerding. Biotech Venture and Lessons Learned Diego talks about his experience working with the biotech company, Sutro Biopharma. He explains how he got involved in the company through a class at Stanford and its focus on cell-free protein synthesis. He also discusses the challenges of working in biotech, including the hierarchical nature of the industry. Influential Harvard Professors and Courses Diego highlights the impact of John Stilgoe's "Gas Stations" class, which taught him to observe and question the built environment. He shares how this approach influenced his thinking and approach to problem-solving. Diego also reflects on his involvement in rowing and cycling at Harvard, and how these activities have continued to be important in his life. Timestamps: 03:47: Opportunity in Barcelona and Cultural Insights 06:19: Educational Toys and Imagination Supply Co. 09:24: Product Design and Teaching Methods 13:18: Impact on Students and Teachers 17:03: Diego's Background as a Tinkerer 22:21: The Rise and Fall of Maker Spaces 26:58: Life as an Empty Nester 31:29: Biotech Venture and Lessons Learned Links: Lectrify website: https://www.lectrify.it/ Featured Non-profit: This featured non-profit of this week's episode is recommended by Kerry Dean Carso who reports: “Hi, I'm Kerry Dean Carso, class of 1992. The featured nonprofit of this episode of The 92 report is Children's Hospital Colorado, as a nationally ranked pediatric hospital. Children's Hospital Colorado cares for families throughout Colorado and surrounding states. My brother works for the Children's Hospital Colorado Foundation, and I'm proud of the work he does to raise funds for the hospital and its mission of improving the health of children in the Rocky Mountain region. You can learn more about their work@www.childrenscolorado.org and now here is Will Bachmann with this week's episode. To learn more about their work, visit: www.childrenscolorado.org
What if your company could literally save lives—and you built it from scratch with no outside funding?Jeff Patterson, Founder & CEO of Gaggle, joins me to share the extraordinary 26-year journey of turning a simple idea—safe email for students—into a national force in student safety and suicide prevention.In this episode, Jeff reveals: • How a conversation with a teacher sparked the creation of Gaggle • The emotional story of how Gaggle helped stop a student from hurting themselves in real time • Why he never took outside capital and runs the company as a sole owner • His “evergreen business” mindset and why his exit strategy is a coffin • His vision for a more complete solution to youth mental healthWe also dive into the entrepreneurial philosophies that guide him, the power of story in creating culture, and how Gaggle is tackling some of the toughest issues in America's schools—anxiety, abuse, bullying, and more.
In this fascinating episode of An Educated Guest, host Todd Zipper sits down with Matthew Pittinsky, a true pioneer in education technology. Matt, the co-founder of Blackboard and former CEO of Parchment, shares his incredible journey from the dawn of the internet to the age of AI. He takes us back to 1997 to reveal the core problem he and his co-founder, Michael Chasen, were trying to solve with Blackboard and how that platform became a ubiquitous force in online learning.The conversation then pivots to his time at Parchment, where he saw a new opportunity to disrupt the antiquated process of academic credentialing. Matt discusses his vision for a digital credential that is more than just a list of courses and grades—one that truly represents a student's skills and competencies. He offers a compelling take on the student debt crisis, the future of the four-year degree, and why he believes the integrity of the credential is the most important mission of any university. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the history of EdTech, the future of credentials, and how AI will fundamentally change how we learn and what we teach.Key Takeaways from this Episode:The LMS Defined: A clear and concise definition of what a learning management system is, its pros and cons, and why it has remained relatively unchanged for over two decades.The Power of the Digital Credential: An exploration of how a student-managed digital record of learning and skills could solve a myriad of problems, from college admissions to skills-based hiring.AI's Role in EdTech: Matt shares his optimistic view on AI as a "sustaining" force that can make learning more efficient and a "disruptive" force that could reorder the entire EdTech landscape.A "Crawl, Walk, Run" Approach to Innovation: Matt's pragmatic advice for universities on how to innovate with technology without disrupting their core mission.A Bold Prediction: Matt's vision for an AI agent that will serve as an omnipresent guide for students, helping them navigate their education and career pathways.About Our Guest:Matthew Pittinsky is an EdTech pioneer and the co-founder of Blackboard, where he served as CEO and Chairman. After earning a Ph.D. from Columbia University's Teachers College, he went on to become the CEO of Parchment, a global leader in digital credentials. Matt is also an active angel investor and a respected thought leader in the education technology space.
In this episode, I'll be comparing AI chatbots that educators can use to save time and boost efficiency in the classroom. You'll also hear how each tool—like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot—stands out, and which features are most helpful for teachers. If you want a clear comparison to help you choose the best chatbot for your teaching needs, the quick guide in this episode has you covered! Show notes: https://classtechtips.com/2025/09/16/comparing-ai-chatbots-337/ Sponsored by my Amazon Storefront: http://ClassTechTips.com/amazon Follow Monica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classtechtips/ Take your pick of free EdTech resources: https://classtechtips.com/free-stuff-favorites/