Podcasts about sxswedu

We welcome Montana Houston, founder of rYOUminate, to the show this week to chat about addressing the “hidden curriculum” of higher education—life skills like financial literacy, career readiness, and self-advocacy that many students are expected to know but are rarely taught. They explore how gaps in infrastructure and capacity have left institutions struggling to deliver this support at scale, and how personalized, tech-enabled solutions can help bridge the divide. Guest Name: Montana Houston - CEO & Founder @ rYOUminate Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Montana Houston is the founder of rYOUminate, a life skills edtech company personalizing adulthood for 18 to 30-year-olds and the higher education institutions that support them. As a first-generation college student at the University of Southern California, she experienced firsthand how much of adulthood is shaped by unspoken expectations. She founded rYOUminate to make those expectations visible, navigable, and less isolating. Today, rYOUminate delivers research-backed programming, reflection-driven tools, and thoughtful resources that help young adults build confidence in life's biggest transitions. Through work with customers such as the University of Washington and YMCA of King County, the company has driven a 2.5x increase in confidence and a 5x increase in knowledge among participants. Montana brings experience across law, financial literacy, and inclusion-focused leadership, and her work has been recognized by SXSW EDU, Venture Black, Urban Impact, and Business Impact Northwest. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this panel discussion, recorded live at SXSW EDU 2026, Ron talks with researchers Nick Allen, Thao Ha, and Alison Lee, and with app creator and student Elle Liemandt, about the social and emotional experiences young people need—in real life and digital spaces—to become contributing, collaborative, and connected humans in a rapidly changing world.

Recent research from Pearson shows that nearly $165B is lost each year when students can't find work after graduation. The transition from education to the workforce can be challenging to navigate. How can you help close the gap?  We sat down with three powerhouse educators to get their thoughts.  First, Matt Dombrowski. Matt is a Professor, Assistant Director, and Art Director for the nonprofit Limbitless Solutions, whose mission is providing cost free, accessible solutions to underserved communities. He leads an interdisciplinary student team in the creation of 3D printed, visually expressive bionic arms and video game training for children with limb difference. His work has been featured by Adobe, TEDx Youth, Huffington Post, Gamasutra, Fast Company, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, GDC, SXSWEDU, and the Gates Foundation. Matt is an Adobe Education Leader and an Adobe Partner By Design. Second, Dr. Kimberly Forbes. Dr. Forbes is the Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) for Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools and a first-generation high school and college graduate. After a successful tenure in the banking industry managing startup operations, she transitioned to education, eventually earning her Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction in 2024. A recognized leader in workforce readiness, Dr. Forbes has served on the national "Launch" committee and was named the NCDPI Piedmont Triad Region's Administrator of the Year. She is deeply committed to administrative innovation and expanding industry credentialing to ensure all students, including special populations, are prepared for the modern economy. Third, Cynthia Krebs. Cynthia is the Program Director of Business Technologies and Education and a professor in the Information Systems and Technology Department at Utah Valley University. Since joining UVU in 1988, she has held multiple roles including Assistant Dean of the School of Business and Department Chair of the Digital Media Department and the Office Technology/Administration Department.  In this episode, these three experts discuss strategies that prepare your students for real-world success. We hit a little bit of everything:  Challenges students currently face Key skills your students need to prepare them for the workforce How to teach and empower students with AI expertise  The role of certification and work-based learning experiences Creating a feedback loop between K12, higher education, and industry  Ready to help your students confidently bridge the gap between education and the workforce? This episode is for you.  Connect with educators like Matt, Kim, and Cynthia in our CERTIFIED Educator Community here.     Don't miss your chance to register for our annual CERTIFIED Educator's Conference here.      

Recorded  live at SXSW EDU 2026, Jake and Bob sit down with Dr. Tessa Forshaw from the Harvard Graduate School of Education to explore metacognition in an AI-driven world. Tessa unpacks why our brains naturally offload thinking to AI, the power of productive friction, and what it takes to keep our own reasoning sharp. We close the show with simple strategies everyone can apply.   00:00 Cold Open 00:37 Live Show and Intro of Tessa 04:56 Metacognition in the AI Era 12:46 How to Stay Metacognitive with AI 17:26 Think While You Work, Not After 19:40 Productive Friction Explained 23:09 The Current Divide with EdTech 30:00 Practical Moves and Closing   CONNECT WITH TESSA'S WORK https://pz.harvard.edu/who-we-are/people/tessa-forshaw   LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE ON APPLE, SPOTIFY, AND YOUTUBE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-learning-geeks-podcast/id1413446184  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7mACo97JvUL1LOmVJ9lATI?si=c430a6d9b08c4100 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learninggeekspodcast   You can also download us anywhere you get your podcasts.   CONNECT WITH US If you have any feedback or want to join in on the conversation, connect with us via LinkedIN.   DISCLAIMER All thoughts and views are of our own.

We're back in Austin for the 2026 SXSW EDU "March Madness of Learning Trends" LIVE panel. Host Mike Palmer is joined by AJ Gutierrez (CEO of Equal Opportunity Schools), Jasmine Maze (Senior Managing Director at Teach for America's Reinvention Lab), and Justin Serrano (CEO of Littera Education) to reveal a bracket of 16 trends shaping the future of education. The conversation moves past the usual AI hype to focus on human capital and accountability. Justin Serrano introduces the "outcomes economy," describing a shift in procurement where school districts move away from buying software and toward outcomes-based contracting that holds providers accountable for student results. AJ Gutierrez highlights the continued efficacy of high-impact tutoring, noting that regular personalization within the school day remains one of the most rigorously evaluated and successful approaches to K-12 recovery. Jasmine Maze provides a necessary critique of AI as a simple productivity engine. She argues for a focus on "teacher efficiency," which means using technology to remove administrative friction and "buy back" time for the relational, human work of mentoring and master design. Mike Palmer rounds out the discussion with a call for "strategic optimism" and the importance of "unplugging" to maintain internal dialogue in an age of digital distraction. Key Takeaways: The Outcomes Economy: State departments are increasingly adopting contracts where up to 40% of payment is tied to intended student outcomes. Redefining Efficiency: Efficiency in education should mean making more time for the masterwork of human connection rather than just pressuring teachers to do more with less. Productive Distrust: As "AI slop" and mediocre content become ubiquitous, learners must develop "productive distrust," a form of critical media literacy that uses skepticism to verify sources and cross-reference information. Interoperability Standards: Initiatives like Project Unicorn and the EdSafe Alliance are essential for creating ethical, secure, and evidence-based standards for AI implementation in schools. Why Listen?This episode offers a front-row seat to the debate over the purpose of K-12 education in an automated world. The panel discusses why "play" is a critical sandbox for solving complex problems and how global perspectives—from France to Ukraine—can help educators scale best practices across different contexts. Subscribe to Trending in Education to stay ahead of the curve for the future of learning. Time Stamps: [00:00] Intro: SXSW EDU 2026 and podcast history [03:11] Meet the Panelists: Littera, Reinvention Lab, and EOS [07:09] Justin's Trends: The Outcomes Economy and SaaS Disruption [10:04] Defining High-Impact Tutoring with AJ Gutierrez [15:54] Jasmine on AI: Teacher Efficiency vs. Automation Culture [18:48] Mike's Trends: Strategic Optimism and the Vibe of 2026 [25:56] Navigating "Productive Distrust" and AI Slop [32:41] Audience Q&A: Teaching AI Literacy and the Role of Play [43:08] Global Perspectives and the Importance of Manual Work [44:42] Closing: AI as a "Fifth Element" and Thinking Partner

In this final episode recorded at SXSW EDU, Dustin chats with George Phillip (“GP”) LeBourdais, a fellow FOHE member and Head of Learning at Edvisor.AI. He details the work his team does enabling faculty members to be more effective and efficient with their efforts. GP also shares his perspective on how AI can have positive impacts on achieving greater equity in the classroom. Guest Name: Dr. George Philip LeBourdais, Head of Learning, Edvisor.AI Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Dr. George Phillip (“GP”) LeBourdais is a trained art historian who believes the best learning happens when humanistic inquiry meets technological innovation. His PhD from Stanford taught him to look carefully, to analyze how people see and make meaning. That slow, interpretive work is key to designing how students interact with AI. Currently, GP serves as Head of Learning (Special Advisor) at Edvisor.ai, leading academic strategy for an AI-powered platform transforming how college students engage with course content. GP embeds evidence-based pedagogy into product development and design multi-institutional efficacy studies. His team's early data shows the largest gains for at-risk students, - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin speaks with Ana Homayoun, executive functioning expert, author, and founder of Green Ivy Educational Consulting and Luminaria Learning. They catch up on things since her interview last year and explore the power of career exploration for young people to help them find postsecondary success. She also teases her forthcoming book, Getting In Is Not Enough: The New Blueprint for Success Beyond Grades, Test Scores and College Admission. Guest Name: Ana Homayoun, Author, Nonprofit Executive, & Independent Academic Advisor Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Ana Homayoun is a noted author, academic advisor, and early career development strategist. Her work focuses on helping students develop executive functioning skills in today's technology and social media world. Her latest book, Erasing the Finish Line: The New Blueprint for Success Beyond Grades and College Admissions, underscores the fundamental skills needed for academic success, emotional well-being and long-term workforce development. Ana is the founder of Green Ivy Educational Consulting, a Silicon Valley-based academic advising firm that helps students, parents and educators with crucial executive function and life-management skills. She is also the founder and executive director of Luminaria Learning Solutions, a non-profit initiative developing the Life Navigator School Advisory Program, an executive function skills curriculum rooted in social and emotional well-being that aims to prepare students for success in and outside of the classroom. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mike Palmer and virtual co-host Nancy are back from the podcast stage at SXSW EDU in Austin, Texas. In this special update, we break down the Sweet 16 of Learning Trends and announce which four have fought their way into the Final Four. This episode explores the collective zeitgeist of the education world, from the challenges of chronic absenteeism to the futuristic potential of vibe coding and agentic intelligence. The conversation begins with a look at the trends submitted by AJ Gutierrez of Equal Opportunity Schools. AJ highlights the pressing issue of chronic absenteeism in K-12 and the need for work pathway alignment. He also makes a strong case for high-impact tutoring and the responsible integration of AI to keep humanity at the center of the classroom. Next, the duo dives into insights from Jasmine Maze and Sunanna Chand of Teach For America's Reinvention Lab. We discuss teacher efficiency not just as an operational goal, but as a relational unlock. This segment covers the rise of vibe coding, the creepy nature of the uncanny valley in AI slop, and why experimentation and play are essential for preparing learners for a rapidly changing future. Justin Serrano, CEO of Littera Education, contributes a clear-eyed look at the outcomes economy. He discusses the shift toward evidence-based contracting and the concept of human-AI interoperability, or the "Canny Centaur." Justin also warns of SaaS disruption in the EdTech space and advocates for a mindset of productive distrust. Finally, Mike shares his own trends, including strategic optimism and gentelligence. He warns of ensloppification across digital platforms and explains why unplugging is a vital restorative practice in an age of constant noise. The episode culminates in the big reveal of the Final Four trends that listeners can now vote on to determine the ultimate winner for 2026. TIME STAMPS 00:00 - Introduction and SXSW EDU history 03:00 - The future of knowledge work and human-AI collaboration 04:00 - AJ Gutierrez on absenteeism and high-impact tutoring 11:00 - Jasmine Maze and Sunanna Chand on vibe coding and teacher efficiency 21:00 - Justin Serrano on the outcomes economy and SaaS disruption 29:00 - Mike Palmer on strategic optimism, unplugging, and gentelligence 39:00 - The Big Reveal: Announcing the Final Four trends 45:00 - 750th episode milestone and closing remarks VOTE IN THE POLLS Help us name the winning trend for 2026! Follow Mike Palmer on LinkedIn to find the latest polls and cast your vote for the Final Four. https://www.linkedin.com/in/palmer-mike/ Subscribe to Trending in Education wherever you get your podcasts or find us on YouTube to join the conversation and help us continue to make the future more evenly distributed.

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin chats with Tanner Jackson from ETS. He explains the ways his team integrates AI and why transparency is increasingly important for edtech companies to foster. Tanner also highlights the recently launched Center for Responsible AI that ETS created as a new resource for higher ed leaders. Guest Name: Dr. Tanner Jackson, Head of AI Products, ETS Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Tanner Jackson is the Head of AI Products at ETS, overseeing the development and deployment of AI capabilities across the global enterprise. His work spans two core areas: integrating AI into product and platform development, and building scalable AI solutions that deliver measurable business and/or educational impact.  With over a decade of experience at ETS-including roles in the Research Institute, Language Learning and Assessment Business, and the Office of the CEO-Tanner's work has consistently focused on helping people achieve their potential. A respected voice on AI, Tanner is a sought-after speaker at top industry forums, including the SHRM Talent Annual Conference, Zoom Educator Summit, and ASU+GSV and has been featured in The Chronicle of Higher Education and Education Week as a subject matter expert. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Part 2 of our SXSW Edu performance: if you're a parent or educator interested in Dungeons & Dragons and similar games, this is for you! Following a D&D actual play with kids at the table, educators Ryan, Raenelle, and Allison break down some of the many benefits kids experience through playing Tabletop Roleplaying Games.    The Kids Table LIVE dungeons & dragons actual play is a recording of a SXSW Edu 2026 performance by  @thekidstablednd  . "What if kids could level up their Social-Emotional Learning skills while playing a tabletop roleplaying game? Our cast of kids & grownups will perform for you a live, improvised, likely chaotic game of Dungeons & Dragons. Afterwards, our adult speakers will break down how the game you just saw fosters outcomes like empathy, communication, and confidence, and why this type of support is so critical now. You'll come away with ideas for how to integrate D&D and other TTRPGs into classroom, library, after school, or home environments."  To follow along with our recommended questions to consider, open https://www.thekidstablednd.com/sxswedu26 in a new tab. This SXSW Edu performance was recorded at Antone's Nightclub in Austin, Texas on March 9th, 2026 and is posted with permission of  @SXSWEDU  .  0:00 Part 2: Applying D&D for Learning 1:06 Introducing Presenters 4:04 Social-Emotional Learning in D&D 6:19 D&D is Just as Good for Kids as Sports (if not better!) 10:23 Exercising Creativity & Exploring Identity 12:49 Cycles of Inquiry 16:37 Developing Empathy & Collaboration 18:55 Classroom Example: Gold Rush 21:15 Live Game Breakdown (cut short) 23:00 Q: As a DM, how much do you prompt kid players? 26:13 Q: What tips do you have for playing with kindergarteners? 31:42 Q: How do you manage a large middle school D&D club? 35:04 Visit https://linktree.com/thekidstablednd for more!   #sxswedu #dndactualplay #liveshow  

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin chats with Greg Smith from Britebound about their recent rebrand and their expanding work helping young learners explore potential careers and the ways to navigate the postsecondary landscape. He highlights how his team's work impacts higher ed during a time of increased scrutiny about value and relevance. Guest Name: Greg Smith, Vice President of Marketing, Britebound Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: As Vice President of Marketing at Britebound, Greg Smith is responsible for translating annual business objectives into strategic marketing plans and leading the marketing team to concept, create and execute the digital campaigns that impact millions of students each year. Greg brings over 25 years of corporate strategy, brand development and global marketing experience with a career that has spanned the technology, banking and financial services industries. In prior agency and client roles, Greg partnered with executives at companies such as American Express, EMC and Citizens Commercial Bank to envision how their marketing organizations must evolve to embrace the digital world and to transform their go-to-market strategies as the power shifted from companies to consumers. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin spoke with Ashley Beckner from Lemnis about their unique funding model that sits at the intersection of a variety of diverse stakeholders focused on enabling student success. She also provides context on their recent acquisition of InsideTrack and the vision Lemnis has for the future. Guest Name: Ashley Beckner, Managing Director, Lemnis Collective Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Ashley Beckner is managing director of the Lemnis Collective. She brings experience across impact investing, philanthropy, finance and operations to Lemnis. She has spent over a decade as an investor and operator in the education sector.  Most recently, Ashley co-led the US education investment team at Imaginable Futures, a venture of The Omidyar Group. She led the team's strategy for driving systemic impact in early childhood leveraging investments in early-stage companies, grants, policy and advocacy, strategic communications, and more. She managed a portfolio of 30+ investments, serving as a strategic advisor to her companies and organizations. Ashley has an MBA from The Wharton School at The University of Pennsylvania and is based in Austin, TX. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin chats with Angelique Albert, CEO of the Native Forward Scholars Fund. She returns to the show after a handful of years to provide updates on her team's work, the holistic support they provide native students, and how they're navigating this turbulent moment in higher ed. Guest Name: Angelique Albert - CEO at Native Forward Scholars Fund Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Angelique Albert is the CEO of Native Forward Scholars Fund, the largest provider of direct scholarships to Native students in the United States. She is a mission-driven leader with expertise in public service, philanthropy, social justice and ensuring that Native students have the resources and support to fulfill their academic and professional aspirations. Raised on the Flathead Indian Reservation, Angelique is a proud member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Since assuming leadership in 2017, Angelique has transformed Native Forward into a national force, surpassing $350 million in total scholarships to over 20,000 students from 500 Tribes in all 50 states. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin chats with Enyi Okebugwu from Imaginable Futures about his work creating effective support structures for student parents. He explains how states are leaning in here and why this work is becoming increasingly important for institutions to focus on. Guest Name: Enyi Okebugwu - Senior Program Manager at Imaginable Futures Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Enyi Okebugwu is the senior program manager at Imaginable Futures. His work focuses on supporting field building and systems change for student parents in the US through nonprofit investments and partnerships. In addition, he supports the development and implementation of IF's learning and impact practices. Prior to joining Imaginable Futures, he worked on the investment team at Village Capital, and spent time as an Impact Fellow with New Globe, where he drove the development process for New Globe's first cohort of primary schools in Nigeria. Enyi began his career by founding a social enterprise, Legendary Tutors, focused on providing high-quality test prep and college admissions consulting to underserved high school students in the south side of Chicago. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode recorded live at SXSW EDU, Dustin talked with Caroline Casagrande from VectorEDU about the impacts of an active year of federal policymaking. She also details how new public funding opportunities are poised to shape the future of higher education. Guest Name: Caroline Casagrande - CEO at VectorEDU Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Caroline Casagrande is the founder of VectorEDU where she guides companies through the intersection of education technology, workforce innovation, AI, and public funding. Her work focuses on go-to-market strategy, Workforce Pell and WIOA alignment, regulatory navigation, and mapping public funding pathways to accelerate adoption in K–12, higher education, and workforce systems. Caroline helps companies understand how public dollars flow, who controls access, and what it takes to win government markets. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode recorded live on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin sits down with Shaun Carver, Executive Director of the International House at UC Berkeley as well as President of the International House Association. He shares his experience creating opportunities for his students from all over the world to connect with one another and why it is more important now than ever. He also explains how recent federal government actions on visas have created uniquely difficult situations for his students. Guest Name: Dr. Shaun Carver - Executive Director & CEO of the International House at UC Berkeley Guest Social: LinkedIn Guest Bio: Shaun Carver is a global education leader and nonprofit executive with over 20 years of experience advancing institutions at the intersection of international engagement, academic innovation, and mission-driven impact. He has proven success leading complex organizations, stewarding institutional transformations, and expanding global networks. Shaun is currently serving as Executive Director and CEO of the International House at UC Berkeley, and President of the revitalized International House Association—a global movement originally supported by the Rockefeller family. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Kids Table LIVE dungeons & dragons actual play is a recording of a SXSW Edu 2026 performance by  @thekidstablednd  . "What if kids could level up their Social-Emotional Learning skills while playing a tabletop roleplaying game? Our cast of kids & grownups will perform for you a live, improvised, likely chaotic game of Dungeons & Dragons. Afterwards, our adult speakers will break down how the game you just saw fosters outcomes like empathy, communication, and confidence, and why this type of support is so critical now. You'll come away with ideas for how to integrate D&D and other TTRPGs into classroom, library, after school, or home environments." To follow along with our recommended questions to consider, open https://www.thekidstablednd.com/sxswedu26 in a new tab. This SXSW Edu performance was recorded at Antone's Nightclub in Austin, Texas on March 9th, 2026 and is posted with permission of  @SXSWEDU  .  About us: When kids are at the table, everyone wins! Playing TTRPGs levels up kids' critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, & confidence. That's why we create our kid-inclusive D&D show, tips for playing with kids, and campaigns to bring the adventures home! Our Kids' Adventures: Our Website Support Our Work: Patreon Follow Us: YouTube, Instagram, TikTok Shoutout to our incredible partners: Emberglow Gaming - GM Shield (affiliate, 10% off: TheKidsTable) Monument Studios - Background Music (30% off: KIDSTABLE) 0:00 What this Show is About 01:38 What is D&D? 02:28 Setting Expectations: Three Big Rules 03:51 Player Introductions & YOU! 06:30 The Adventure Begins 08:51 Why We Roll Dice 32:33 Why We Include Puzzles 43:01 Why We Play Battles 55:16 It's Not Over 55:48 Credits #sxswedu #dndactualplay #liveshow

What happens to a school system when boundary spanning doesn't exist?In Part 2 of this Disrupt Education Podcast conversation, Peter Hostrawser and Alli Dahl go deeper with Chris Brida (CTE Director, Portland Public Schools) to unpack what's at risk when education stays siloed—by departments, by bell schedules, by “that's not my lane.”Chris shares what his dissertation research is revealing about partner ecosystems, including what actually changes partner perception (hint: it's not tenure) and why engagement intensity matters if we want real alignment between classrooms and industry. He also breaks down how to teach boundary spanning without a textbook—by designing experiences where leaders “trip over the truth” through role-based practice (and he previews how he's doing this at SXSW EDU).This episode zooms out to the bigger disruption: moving beyond “partnership management” toward partnership design—and ultimately building CTE as a civic engagement engine where students work on real problems, with real partners, producing real impact.If you're a district leader, CTE leader, principal, teacher-leader, or anyone trying to build work-based learning, internships, industry partnerships, and deeper learning, this one will give you language, structure, and a direction to move.Key topics in this episode:The risks of NOT doing boundary spanning in educationWhat partner survey data says about alignment + student experienceWhy “time barriers” aren't the whole storyHow to teach boundary spanning through experience-based learningBreaking silos: interdisciplinary learning and “erasing the edges” of class periodsScaling CTE partnerships into real community impact projects✅ Subscribe for more episodes on CTE, internships, work-based learning, and building education that actually connects to the world students are walking into.A quick thank you to our sponsor, YouScience Brightpath, the next generation platform helping students make personalized decisions as they move from education to career. If you are serious about connecting students to real opportunities, head to youscience.com/disrupteducation-podcast. Request a demo and let them know you heard about YouScience right here.

This episode of The New Abnormal podcast features Lisa Giuliani M.A., who is an experienced educator with over ten years of work in higher education, K-12, the private sector, and nonprofits. Dedicated to empowering young people and organizations through futures literacy, Lisa currently serves as the Director of the Young Voices Network at Teach the Future, which is based in the US but operates globally. Passionate about intergenerational equity, making futures thinking accessible, and inspiring youth leaders, she believes that collaboration across generations enhances organizations and communities.So, we discuss all of the above, along with the forthcoming World Futures Day, a 24hr global conversation about our common futures that brings together intergenerational voices from around the world to ensure youth perspectives are central to the global dialogue. In particular, regarding this conversation, Lisa explains how Teach the Future, in partnership with the Millennium Project, launched the Young Voices Edition.So, I hope you enjoy listening to her as much as did - and make sure you listen into World Futures Day on 1st March!

Get the inside scoop on SXSW EDU 2026 as Mike Palmer sits down with Kayla Meyers from SXSW EDU to preview what's heading to Austin this March. From a reimagined city-wide footprint to the biggest podcast stage lineup yet, we're breaking down why this year is a must-attend for anyone in the education ecosystem. Kayla shares her journey from museum curator to the mastermind behind the conference's "impeccable vibes," offering a deep dive into the trends shaping the 2026 program. What we covered:

Elliot Felix is a leading voice in higher education strategy, widely recognized as an author, speaker, and consultant who has worked with more than a hundred colleges and universities to improve student success. With a background in design, Felix focuses on creating “connected colleges” by reimagining spaces, services, and technology to foster belonging and streamline the student experience. He founded Brightspot Strategy in 2011, which was later acquired by Buro Happold in 2020, where he now leads the higher education advisory practice. Over two decades, his work has impacted over one million students and earned him speaking engagements at major conferences like SXSW EDU. Felix has authored two influential books: How to Get the Most Out of College (2022), praised by Kirkus Reviews, and The Connected College: Leadership Strategies for Student Success (2025), which debuted as a #1 new release in education administration. His thought leadership appears in outlets such as Fast Company, Forbes, and The Chronicle of Higher Education, and he continues to inspire institutional leaders to break down silos, adopt design thinking, and prioritize student-centered strategies.

Drawing on observations from 2025 events ranging from SXSW EDU and Latitude59 to BORDERLAND at Slush, this article explores how technology providers—from defense to legal tech—are undermining productivity. It examines the rise of "sticky complexity," the failure to apply the TLTF "trifurcation" model internally, and offers a path back to outcome-driven execution. The post When Process Replaces Progress: How Technology Providers Undermine Productivity from the Inside appeared first on ComplexDiscovery.

Greg Rosenbaum, vice president of the SXSW EDU Conference & Festival, joins Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski to talk about the Festival's history, trends that grew out from the event, and how educators can learn from other industries featured in South by Southwest.

Mike Palmer returns to the Thanksgiving table to serve up a side of applied neuroscience. Powered by the recently released Gemini 3, he examines the "gratitude cocktail," a potent neurochemical mix of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin that mimics the effects of antidepressants and strengthens social bonds. Beyond the chemistry, Mike explores the psychological framework of The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy. He explains how measuring progress against an ideal future creates unhappiness, while measuring against the past generates resilience and satisfaction. The conversation shifts from theory to practice, detailing why gratitude stories are more effective than rote lists and how specific "Notice, Think, Feel, Do" protocols rewire the brain. Mike also debunks the tryptophan myth, explaining how carbohydrates and compelling narratives—like football—actually drive the post-meal nap. Finally, he reflects on the origins of Trending in Education, shares updates on the new Trending in Higher Ed feed, and previews upcoming live events from SXSW EDU to Alexandria, Virginia. Key Takeaways The Gratitude Cocktail: Gratitude activates the brain's reward centers. Dopamine drives motivation, serotonin stabilizes mood similar to SSRIs, and oxytocin fosters trust and bonding. Mindset Shift: "Gap thinking" focuses on the distance between your actual self and an unreachable ideal, leading to burnout. "Gain thinking" measures your actual self against your past self, highlighting progress and abundance. Stories Over Lists: Rote gratitude lists often lead to mechanical habituation. Constructing gratitude narratives creates stronger neural pathways and emotional connections. The Science of the Nap: It isn't just the turkey. Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin and melatonin, but the heavy carbohydrate load and the relief of social bonding are the real drivers of sleepiness. Podcast Expansion: Trending in Education is expanding its network with a dedicated Trending in Higher Ed feed to allow listeners to dive deeper into specific verticals. Why You Should Listen This episode moves beyond the platitudes of "giving thanks" to reveal the biological mechanisms that make gratitude a high-performance tool. If you find yourself doomscrolling or fixating on what you haven't achieved, the "Gap and The Gain" framework offers a practical method to reset your cognitive baseline. Mike connects these mental models to tangible brain health, offering a compelling argument for why gratitude is essential fuel for resilience and innovation. Like, follow, and subscribe to Trending in Education wherever you get your podcasts. Visit us at TrendinginEd.com for more. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Neuroscience of Gratitude 00:49 The Science Behind Gratitude 02:01 Neurochemistry and Brain Health 04:01 The Gap and the Gain Framework 07:05 Practical Applications of Gratitude 09:18 Gratitude in Daily Life 13:48 Personal Stories and Reflections 19:49 Upcoming Projects and Gratitude 25:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this bonus episode, Dustin caught up with Annie Chechitelli, Chief Product Officer at Turnitin. After recording earlier this year at SXSW EDU, they reconnected to unpack the biggest myths and realities around AI in higher ed. Building upon her recent blog post as well as the prior conversation Dustin had with Annie's colleague, Eric Wang, this conversation dives into the evolving role of AI tools—like generative writing assistants and detection software—and how institutions and instructors can embrace transparency, not panic. Annie shares sharp insights on what AI literacy really means, why “zero AI” policies may backfire, and how faculty can empower students without sacrificing trust or learning outcomes.Guest Name: Annie Chechitelli, Chief Product Officer at TurnitinGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Annie Chechitelli has spent the past two decades innovating with educators to expand access to education, meet the quickly changing needs of learners, and empower students to do their best, original work. As the Chief Product Officer at Turnitin, Annie oversees the Turnitin suite of applications which includes academic integrity, grading and feedback, and assessment capabilities. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a textMireia Torello is the CEO and co-founder of Aikreate, an EdTech company revolutionizing AI Literacy for students and educators worldwide. With a PhD in Earth Sciences and an Executive MBA from IESE Business School, Mireia brings a unique mix of scientific and entrepreneurial experience. She has led Aikreate through partnerships with schools, universities, and governments and has been recognized at top innovation forums like SXSW EDU and ASU+GSV's Women in AI. Her mission: make AI accessible, ethical, and empowering for the next generation.

Subscribe:Spotify|TuneIn|RSS Michael Hernandez is changing the narrative as an award-winning educator, best-selling author, education consultant, and international speaker. He helps individuals and organizations adapt and thrive in a changing world. Michael is an Apple Distinguished Educator, PBS Digital Innovator, and National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow. Michael’s work focuses on authentic learning in the age of AI, digital and civic literacy, creativity, and innovation. Your WHY about Changing the Narrative This is a challenging moment in education. I’m doing my best to help teachers and education leaders navigate these challenges. Educators diagnose problems, such as academic integrity, in the age of AI. However, kids aren’t showing up to school, physically or intellectually. There has been too much focus on standardized test scores, the drill and kill mindset, and data-driven processes. Instead, we need to focus on human-centered experiences. But I don’t see many people offering solutions. That’s where I’ve decided to focus my energy. Students can create nonfiction multimedia research projects as an alternative to tests and worksheets. It just builds on what teachers already do best and what they know to be good pedagogy. When students have agency, when they can work on projects they care about, and when all of the hard work we ask them to do has a point, they’ll put in the effort and get excited about learning. They won’t want to cheat if the experience is rewarding and has an impact. Even kids as young as kindergarteners can have agency and impact their communities beyond the classroom. My WHY is to help educators design assignments that maintain rigor and address standards, but in ways that are meaningful to students and help teachers make the case for why their curriculum matters. How Changing the Narrative Affected You Growing Up I come from a family of educators–both of my parents, two aunts, and my uncle were educators. My brother is a college professor and research scientist. I guess learning is in my blood. I grew up in Central California, the son of a migrant farm worker who was the first in his family to graduate from college, so I have the experience of understanding why a quality education is important. I was fortunate to have some incredible teachers growing up, from elementary through college, who shaped who I am and my teaching philosophy. In fact, many of them are in the acknowledgements section of my book. The main thread is that they were all creative and none of them stuck to the rules. Even though they asked us to work hard, we had fun, and school was joyful. Fun and joy are the key pieces that have been sucked out of education in the U.S. ever since No Child Left Behind. The metric of success became a test score, not a tangible product or observable outcome. It’s not surprising that student engagement has been decreasing for years, long before the pandemic and cell phones. Your Story of Changing the Narrative as an Educator As I said, both of my parents were educators, so I should have known better than to become one! I was finishing graduate school in film and realized that I had student loan debt. I was going to be a production assistant, hunting for jobs. I should have thought that career path through a little better! Then I heard about a school district starting a film and journalism program, so I applied, and they hired me. It was a 5-year plan to pay off my student loans. I foolishly thought I could work on my own projects in all the spare time that teachers have! I just completed year 26 of the five-year plan! I was able to share my passion for film, journalism, and storytelling with thousands of students–many of whom are working in the industry. It’s so rewarding to open eyes to new possibilities, and students found their “thing.†It wasn’t math, or history, or science. We can’t all be novelists or engineers. It’s crucial to honor everyone’s individuality and potential, and offer students experiences that empower them to discover their way. Now that I’ve left the classroom, I’m focusing on helping schools and districts adapt and thrive in these challenging times by taking my knowledge of teaching and deep empathy for teachers to help others find success in meaningful ways. I support schools through keynote speaking, leading professional development experiences, and working alongside leadership teams. I’m still a teacher; however, I get to have more impact than if I stayed in my own classroom. Book: Storytelling with Purpose: Digital Projects To Ignite Student Curiosity I published my book, “Storytelling with Purpose, through ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education). It is a practical handbook and guide to solving these problems by designing authentic learning experiences. This has been my passion project for the past few years. I wanted to write a book that I wish I had when I started teaching or even mid-career. The title might be a little deceiving. Many educators don’t think they teach storytelling, especially if they teach math, history, or science. We always ask students to tell the story of their learning. We even say “show what you know†or “show your work,†and that’s exactly what the book helps teachers in every grade level and subject area accomplish. We demonstrate how to use multimedia research projects as a scaffold for their curriculum. So instead of a worksheet, a test, or a report that all end up in the trash and are cheatable by design, we challenge students to create an explainer video, publish a digital book, or an infographic. All of these are one-of-a-kind products that let students have agency and voice, and can be published publicly, which empowers both impact and accountability. Link to Storytelling with Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/Storytelling-Purpose-Digital-Projects-Curiosity/dp/1564849961/ It was important to me to make my book evergreen. There are many books about AI and specific tech tools, but I wanted this book to be device-agnostic and about pedagogy rather than a single tool. Apps come and go, but good teaching is forever. A highly readable and hugely helpful guide for teachers!â€~ Ken Burns Many teachers around the world are using it for professional development training. I recently led a five-hour pre-conference workshop at ISTE/ASCD this summer with teachers from at least 10 different countries. I am fortunate to have endorsements for my book from Ken Burns and Seth Godin. Just in time! This is a pedagogical and practical guide for teachers ready to take learning to a new level. ~Seth Godin Consultant and International Speaker on Changing the Narrative I enjoy working with educators, learning from them, and sharing possibilities to spark new ideas in their learning spaces. I used to focus on edtech tools since that’s where I got my start speaking at CUE (now CALIE) and ISTE. I’ve expanded my workshops into areas like assessment, digital and civic literacy, innovative teaching, and learning practices. I think that matches the evolution of technology, that it’s integrated into our lives. It seems almost artificial to focus on it in a silo, and out of the context of everything else we need to do in schools. Social-emotional wellness, assessment, inquiry, curiosity, creativity, and all of these are tied to our relationship with technology and how we as educators prepare students to be successful outside the classroom, not just on a test. One of the central ideas in my consulting work and writing is about reminding ourselves what school is for in the first place: to develop good citizens. No one takes tests or writes 5-paragraph essays. When our students are out in the world, when no one is looking, and there’s no grade on the line, can they vet a source of information so they know how to vote or what medicine to take? Are they capable of giving and receiving constructive feedback? These are the traits of good citizens in a democracy. It’s up to us as educators to help our students become intellectually agile and emotionally resilient. We can’t do that with tests and worksheets. Your Podcast: Change the Narrative This is a funny story. When I chose the idea for my book, I started researching how to publish it. One of the recommendations was to build an audience before you publish. So I started publishing my newsletter in 2018. A friend liked it a lot and suggested that I turn it into a podcast. So I did! Then, two years later, I finally got around to working on the book. But it’s a fun series. I average one season per year, and the topics change depending on what interests me. The topics are like innovation, storytelling, book publishing, and reflections on my expedition to Antarctica as a Lindblad/National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow. I haven’t decided on my theme for 2026, so I’m open to any suggestions! Podcast, Change the Narrative: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/change-the-narrative/id1455984465 Fostering a Culture of Academic Integrity in the Age of AI AI is definitely top of mind for many educators, especially anyone who relies on writing as their primary means of assessment. Honestly, this affects everyone, from math teachers to science teachers, and even me as a photography, filmmaking, and journalism teacher. Students can literally generate high-quality images, video clips, and audio podcasts with just a prompt. It’s easy to see AI as a threat to our livelihoods and feel a sense of existential dread. What does it mean to teach and learn anymore? I’m actually optimistic about it. I think AI is a gift. It has reminded us of what matters most in learning: originality, individuality, creativity, and having a purpose for our work. Artificial intelligence isn’t the problem; it’s artificial assessment. Much of school is based on teaching mechanics, and because standardized tests focus on that, we don’t teach or learn for fun or create rewarding experiences. The latest statistics show that fewer people read, and most students in school don’t even complete an entire novel in their language arts classes. We’ve drained humanness from school. This is why I’m excited about AI. If a tool can do the mechanical and clerical work for us, we can then focus on ideas and purpose. It’s forcing us to focus on the “why,†not just the “how.†It’s really disheartening when I see schools revert to in-class hand-written essays or spend tens of thousands of dollars on cheat detection software that is ultimately flawed. What does that say to our kids about what we think of them? Policing students and creating an antagonistic culture is a surefire way to make kids unhappy, and they may not show up. And if they do show up, they are not putting their best effort into their work. Cheating has always existed, long before AI, Google, and cell phones. There are two main reasons why students cheat: by incentive and by design. If we remove the incentive to cheat, we’ve solved 90% of the problem. And if our assessments only have one right answer that everyone is supposed to share at the same time, we’ve set ourselves up for failure. Online Course: Uncheatable Assessments In my online course, Uncheatable Assessments, I help teachers focus more on process and product rather than on memorization and compliance. And we learn to design assignments that result in original, one-of-a-kind artifacts that students want to complete After I published my book, I heard that people were interested in the chapter on using multimedia research projects as a type of authentic assessment. There was a demand for this topic in my workshops. So, I produced an asynchronous course that was flexible for busy educators. They didn’t need to fly to a city to attend a conference, and can fit in the modules when they have time, like during a prep period or after school. There are about 4 hours of video instruction, a 75-page downloadable workbook, and there’s even an option to earn three continuing education units from Loyola Marymount University for salary advancement or required professional development. There are volume discounts for school districts to make it more feasible for educators. Link to course, Uncheatable Assessments https://storytelling-with-purpose-learning.thinkific.com/collections/courses-for-educators Online Course: Slidefluence Everything is moving to video right now. Teachers have lectures recorded, and businesses engage with customers and clients on websites and social media. Just look at TikTok and Instagram. There’s really no way to learn how to do that well. I decided to create an affordable, all-in-one course to help folks learn to be effective video storytellers. I’m really excited about it, and I’m in the middle of editing it right now. Essentially, the course will show you how to transform slide decks into dynamic videos that help you teach, persuade, and win people over. Entrepreneurs can pitch their product to funders, Businesses can create a library of content for customers, Sales teams can make the case for their results more clearly, and, of course, educators can create engaging direct instruction to help learners of all abilities and in multiple locations. I talk about finding focus for the story, writing a narration script, designing slides, and recording and publishing the videos. Online course, Slidefluence: https://www.michael-hernandez.net/slidefluence.html Michael’s Contact Information LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-hernandez-21a8195/ Personal Website: https://www.michael-hernandez.net/ Website: https://www.storytelling-with-purpose.com/ Instagram: @changing.the.narrative Email: cinehead3@gmail.com ***** I am grateful that Michael joined me on my virtual porch. I have known and followed Michael for a long time. We’re both from California, so I met him earlier at CUE and then again at SXSW EDU 2 years ago when he launched his book. It was fun to connect on Zoom and see Michael sharing how he’s so passionate about helping educators make learning meaningful and assessments uncheatable. I hope you connect and follow Michael. Please share this post and podcast with your friends. ***** The post Changing the Narrative with Michael Hernandez (EP177) appeared first on Barbara Bray.

Subscribe: Spotify | TuneIn | RSS Michael Hernandez is changing the narrative as an award-winning educator, best-selling author, education consultant, and international speaker. He helps individuals and organizations adapt and thrive in a changing world. Michael is an Apple Distinguished Educator, PBS Digital Innovator, and National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow. Michael's work focuses on authentic learning in the age of AI, digital and civic literacy, creativity, and innovation. Your WHY about Changing the Narrative This is a challenging moment in education. I'm doing my best to help teachers and education leaders navigate these challenges. Educators diagnose problems, such as academic integrity, in the age of AI. However, kids aren't showing up to school, physically or intellectually. There has been too much focus on standardized test scores, the drill and kill mindset, and data-driven processes. Instead, we need to focus on human-centered experiences. But I don't see many people offering solutions. That's where I've decided to focus my energy. Students can create nonfiction multimedia research projects as an alternative to tests and worksheets. It just builds on what teachers already do best and what they know to be good pedagogy. When students have agency, when they can work on projects they care about, and when all of the hard work we ask them to do has a point, they'll put in the effort and get excited about learning. They won't want to cheat if the experience is rewarding and has an impact. Even kids as young as kindergarteners can have agency and impact their communities beyond the classroom. My WHY is to help educators design assignments that maintain rigor and address standards, but in ways that are meaningful to students and help teachers make the case for why their curriculum matters. How Changing the Narrative Affected You Growing Up I come from a family of educators–both of my parents, two aunts, and my uncle were educators. My brother is a college professor and research scientist. I guess learning is in my blood. I grew up in Central California, the son of a migrant farm worker who was the first in his family to graduate from college, so I have the experience of understanding why a quality education is important. I was fortunate to have some incredible teachers growing up, from elementary through college, who shaped who I am and my teaching philosophy. In fact, many of them are in the acknowledgements section of my book. The main thread is that they were all creative and none of them stuck to the rules. Even though they asked us to work hard, we had fun, and school was joyful. Fun and joy are the key pieces that have been sucked out of education in the U.S. ever since No Child Left Behind. The metric of success became a test score, not a tangible product or observable outcome. It's not surprising that student engagement has been decreasing for years, long before the pandemic and cell phones.  Your Story of Changing the Narrative as an Educator As I said, both of my parents were educators, so I should have known better than to become one! I was finishing graduate school in film and realized that I had student loan debt. I was going to be a production assistant, hunting for jobs. I should have thought that career path through a little better! Then I heard about a school district starting a film and journalism program, so I applied, and they hired me. It was a 5-year plan to pay off my student loans. I foolishly thought I could work on my own projects in all the spare time that teachers have! I just completed year 26 of the five-year plan! I was able to share my passion for film, journalism, and storytelling with thousands of students–many of whom are working in the industry. It's so rewarding to open eyes to new possibilities, and students found their “thing.” It wasn't math, or history, or science. We can't all be novelists or engineers. It's crucial to honor everyone's individuality and potential, and offer students experiences that empower them to discover their way. Now that I've left the classroom, I'm focusing on helping schools and districts adapt and thrive in these challenging times by taking my knowledge of teaching and deep empathy for teachers to help others find success in meaningful ways. I support schools through keynote speaking, leading professional development experiences, and working alongside leadership teams. I'm still a teacher; however, I get to have more impact than if I stayed in my own classroom. Book: Storytelling with Purpose:  Digital Projects To Ignite Student Curiosity I published my book, “Storytelling with Purpose, through ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education). It is a practical handbook and guide to solving these problems by designing authentic learning experiences. This has been my passion project for the past few years. I wanted to write a book that I wish I had when I started teaching or even mid-career. The title might be a little deceiving. Many educators don't think they teach storytelling, especially if they teach math, history, or science. We always ask students to tell the story of their learning. We even say “show what you know” or “show your work,” and that's exactly what the book helps teachers in every grade level and subject area accomplish. We demonstrate how to use multimedia research projects as a scaffold for their curriculum. So instead of a worksheet, a test, or a report that all end up in the trash and are cheatable by design, we challenge students to create an explainer video, publish a digital book, or an infographic. All of these are one-of-a-kind products that let students have agency and voice, and can be published publicly, which empowers both impact and accountability.  Link to Storytelling with Purpose:  https://www.amazon.com/Storytelling-Purpose-Digital-Projects-Curiosity/dp/1564849961/ It was important to me to make my book evergreen. There are many books about AI and specific tech tools, but I wanted this book to be device-agnostic and about pedagogy rather than a single tool. Apps come and go, but good teaching is forever. A highly readable and hugely helpful guide for teachers!”  ~ Ken Burns Many teachers around the world are using it for professional development training. I recently led a five-hour pre-conference workshop at ISTE/ASCD this summer with teachers from at least 10 different countries. I am fortunate to have endorsements for my book from Ken Burns and Seth Godin. Just in time! This is a pedagogical and practical guide for teachers ready to take learning to a new level.   ~Seth Godin Consultant and International Speaker on Changing the Narrative I enjoy working with educators, learning from them, and sharing possibilities to spark new ideas in their learning spaces. I used to focus on edtech tools since that's where I got my start speaking at CUE (now CALIE) and ISTE. I've expanded my workshops into areas like assessment, digital and civic literacy, innovative teaching, and learning practices. I think that matches the evolution of technology, that it's integrated into our lives. It seems almost artificial to focus on it in a silo, and out of the context of everything else we need to do in schools. Social-emotional wellness, assessment, inquiry, curiosity, creativity, and all of these are tied to our relationship with technology and how we as educators prepare students to be successful outside the classroom, not just on a test.  One of the central ideas in my consulting work and writing is about reminding ourselves what school is for in the first place: to develop good citizens. No one takes tests or writes 5-paragraph essays. When our students are out in the world, when no one is looking, and there's no grade on the line, can they vet a source of information so they know how to vote or what medicine to take? Are they capable of giving and receiving constructive feedback? These are the traits of good citizens in a democracy. It's up to us as educators to help our students become intellectually agile and emotionally resilient. We can't do that with tests and worksheets. Your Podcast: Change the Narrative This is a funny story. When I chose the idea for my book, I started researching how to publish it. One of the recommendations was to build an audience before you publish. So I started publishing my newsletter in 2018. A friend liked it a lot and suggested that I turn it into a podcast. So I did! Then, two years later, I finally got around to working on the book. But it's a fun series. I average one season per year, and the topics change depending on what interests me. The topics are like innovation, storytelling, book publishing, and reflections on my expedition to Antarctica as a Lindblad/National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow. I haven't decided on my theme for 2026, so I'm open to any suggestions! Podcast, Change the Narrative: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/change-the-narrative/id1455984465  Fostering a Culture of Academic Integrity in the Age of AI  AI is definitely top of mind for many educators, especially anyone who relies on writing as their primary means of assessment. Honestly, this affects everyone, from math teachers to science teachers, and even me as a photography, filmmaking, and journalism teacher. Students can literally generate high-quality images, video clips, and audio podcasts with just a prompt. It's easy to see AI as a threat to our livelihoods and feel a sense of existential dread. What does it mean to teach and learn anymore?  I'm actually optimistic about it. I think AI is a gift. It has reminded us of what matters most in learning: originality, individuality, creativity, and having a purpose for our work. Artificial intelligence isn't the problem; it's artificial assessment. Much of school is based on teaching mechanics, and because standardized tests focus on that, we don't teach or learn for fun or create rewarding experiences. The latest statistics show that fewer people read, and most students in school don't even complete an entire novel in their language arts classes. We've drained humanness from school. This is why I'm excited about AI. If a tool can do the mechanical and clerical work for us, we can then focus on ideas and purpose. It's forcing us to focus on the “why,” not just the “how.” It's really disheartening when I see schools revert to in-class hand-written essays or spend tens of thousands of dollars on cheat detection software that is ultimately flawed. What does that say to our kids about what we think of them? Policing students and creating an antagonistic culture is a surefire way to make kids unhappy, and they may not show up. And if they do show up, they are not putting their best effort into their work.  Cheating has always existed, long before AI, Google, and cell phones. There are two main reasons why students cheat: by incentive and by design. If we remove the incentive to cheat, we've solved 90% of the problem. And if our assessments only have one right answer that everyone is supposed to share at the same time, we've set ourselves up for failure.  Online Course: Uncheatable Assessments In my online course, Uncheatable Assessments, I help teachers focus more on process and product rather than on memorization and compliance. And we learn to design assignments that result in original, one-of-a-kind artifacts that students want to complete After I published my book, I heard that people were interested in the chapter on using multimedia research projects as a type of authentic assessment. There was a demand for this topic in my workshops. So, I produced an asynchronous course that was flexible for busy educators. They didn't need to fly to a city to attend a conference, and can fit in the modules when they have time, like during a prep period or after school. There are about 4 hours of video instruction, a 75-page downloadable workbook, and there's even an option to earn three continuing education units from Loyola Marymount University for salary advancement or required professional development. There are volume discounts for school districts to make it more feasible for educators. Link to course, Uncheatable Assessments https://storytelling-with-purpose-learning.thinkific.com/collections/courses-for-educators Online Course: Slidefluence Everything is moving to video right now. Teachers have lectures recorded, and businesses engage with customers and clients on websites and social media. Just look at TikTok and Instagram.  There's really no way to learn how to do that well. I decided to create an affordable, all-in-one course to help folks learn to be effective video storytellers. I'm really excited about it, and I'm in the middle of editing it right now. Essentially, the course will show you how to transform slide decks into dynamic videos that help you teach, persuade, and win people over. Entrepreneurs can pitch their product to funders, Businesses can create a library of content for customers, Sales teams can make the case for their results more clearly, and, of course, educators can create engaging direct instruction to help learners of all abilities and in multiple locations. I talk about finding focus for the story, writing a narration script, designing slides, and recording and publishing the videos.  Online course, Slidefluence: https://www.michael-hernandez.net/slidefluence.html Michael's Contact Information LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-hernandez-21a8195/ Personal Website: https://www.michael-hernandez.net/ Website: https://www.storytelling-with-purpose.com/  Instagram: @changing.the.narrative Email: cinehead3@gmail.com ***** I am grateful that Michael joined me on my virtual porch. I have known and followed Michael for a long time. We're both from California, so I met him earlier at CUE and then again at SXSW EDU 2 years ago when he launched his book. It was fun to connect on Zoom and see Michael sharing how he's so passionate about helping educators make learning meaningful and assessments uncheatable. I hope you connect and follow Michael. Please share this post and podcast with your friends. ***** The post Changing the Narrative with Michael Hernandez (EP177) appeared first on Barbara Bray.

You thought we were done with the show? Think again. The pursuit of top-tier tactics continues! Talking Tactics isn't going anywhere, but we ARE getting a new voice behind the mic. After 56 episodes of Day Kibilds serving up the tactical gold you've come to love, she's officially passing the torch to Safaniya "Safy" Stevenson, a brand strategist and cultural analyst equally obsessed with tactics. Get to know your new host and what she's got in store for the show. Also, find out what Day will be doing with her newfound free time. SPOILER: It's also based in tactics. She just can't give it up, can she?!Welcome our new host: Safaniya Stevenson, Brand Strategist & Cultural Analysthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/safaniyastevenson/Safy's Bio: Strategist. Storyteller. Status quo disruptor. Safaniya "Safy" Stevenson is a senior brand strategist and cultural analyst who transforms brands by understanding what makes audiences tick. With over a decade of experience spanning TV news to digital leadership, she has orchestrated viral campaigns and led multimillion-dollar rebrands for institutions like NC State, Boise State and Cal Poly Humboldt. Named a 2024 AAMA "Marketer to Watch" and SXSW EDU presenter, Safy cross-pollinates insights from industries like Food & Beverage, Tech, and Tourism to inspire fresh approaches to higher education marketing. This Raleigh-based Lego enthusiast (20+ builds and counting) applies her omnichannel expertise to create authentic narratives that elevate brands and categories. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Safaniya Stevensonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/safaniyastevenson/ About The Enrollify Podcast Network:Talking Tactics is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.

What happens when a side hustle disappears, a global pandemic flips everything upside down, and two college students refuse to sit still? For Sophie English Smith and Leah Guesman, it sparked an idea that would reshape how families navigate the college journey. In this episode, we sit down with the co-founders of Your College Contact, a mentorship service built to take the stress out of applications, scholarships, and campus life by pairing students with experienced guides who've already been there.Together, Sophie and Leah share how their idea was born in the middle of COVID, the risks they took to get it off the ground, and how they're now helping families cut through the stress with real, personalized support. From their very first students to the growing network they've built today, their story is all about turning challenges into opportunities and proving that mentorship can change everything.---ABOUT OUR GUESTSophie English Smith, CEO & Co-Founder of the nationally recognized College Contact platform, is a graduate of the McIntire School of Commerce at the University of Virginia, where she studied Marketing and IT with a focus in Data Analytics. Before venturing into entrepreneurship full-time, Sophie worked in the venture capital, private equity, and private banking spaces. Despite being offered a full-time banking position at Morgan Stanley in NYC, Sophie went on to raise over $1.5M for College Contact, which was named the EdTech Startup of the Year at SXSW EDU in 2025 and the Career Pathways EdTech Product of the Year at EDTECH week 2024.Leah Guesman is the Co-Founder and COO of College Contact. Originally from Los Altos, California, Leah graduated from the University of Virginia's McIntire School of Commerce in 2023 with degrees in Marketing and Economics. In 2023, Leah joined Sophie as a co-founder, combining her business expertise with her commitment to expanding access to college and career resources. She leads the development of partnerships with schools and nonprofits, enabling College Contact to reach thousands of students.---SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube Music⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Overcast⁠⁠⁠FOLLOW US: ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of Filmmaker Mixer, we sit down with award-winning editor Wax Taber, the creative force behind PBS's The Class, which premiered at SXSW EDU. Wax edited four of the six episodes and served as the finishing editor for the entire docuseries.The Class follows six high school seniors from Deer Valley High School in Antioch, California, as they navigate the college application process during the COVID-19 pandemic—supported by the relentless guidance of their advisor, Mr. Cam. It's a deeply human story of resilience, community, and the American education system.Wax brings more than just her editorial expertise to this story—her personal journey from homelessness in NYC to becoming a successful editor on projects for Netflix, Disney, CNN, and more, adds a powerful layer to the conversation. A proud alum of the EOP/EDP program, Wax shares how that experience shaped her voice, her career, and her commitment to mentorship in the film and TV industry.

What makes in-person events so valuable for educators today? In an age where virtual meetings and webinars are more accessible than ever, why should you still consider showing up in person? Whether it's for professional development, networking, or simply feeling a deeper sense of connection, these face-to-face moments can offer something uniquely impactful. Joining the conversation is ATPE Engagement & Learning Specialist Andrea Hutlock, who recently attended SXSW EDU 2025. She shares reflections on what makes face-to-face experiences so energizing and meaningful, including thoughts on those spontaneous hallway chats and casual meetups that often leave the biggest impact. In this episode, Andrea offers practical tips for navigating the cost and logistics of attending events and explains how educators can get the most out of each opportunity—from planning ahead to decompressing afterward. If you've ever questioned whether it's worth the time and effort to show up in person, this episode is for you.

In this special episode recorded on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin speaks with Ana Homayoun, executive functioning expert, author, and founder of Green Ivy Educational Consulting and Luminaria Learning. Ana has spent 25 years helping students develop the organization, planning, and adaptability skills they need to thrive in school, work, and life. She explains why higher ed institutions must start teaching executive functioning skills, how this can boost retention and student well-being, and why these abilities are just as critical as technical knowledge for career success.Guest Name: Ana Homayoun - Author, Nonprofit Executive, & Independent Academic AdvisorGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Ana Homayoun is a noted author, academic advisor, and early career development strategist. Her work focuses on helping students develop executive functioning skills in today's technology and social media world. Her latest book, Erasing the Finish Line: The New Blueprint for Success Beyond Grades and College Admissions, underscores the fundamental skills needed for academic success, emotional well-being and long-term workforce development. Ana is the founder of Green Ivy Educational Consulting, a Silicon Valley-based academic advising firm that helps students, parents and educators with crucial executive function and life-management skills. She is also the founder and executive director of Luminaria Learning Solutions, a non-profit initiative developing the Life Navigator School Advisory Program, an executive function skills curriculum rooted in social and emotional well-being that aims to prepare students for success in and outside of the classroom. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Host Nimah Gobir moderates the MindShift KQED: Can Better Conversations Improve Media Literacy Among Students? panel at the 2025 SXSW EDU conference.

In this reflective episode, Brooke and Ashley discuss some behind-the-scenes struggles they were both internally battling but not communicating about. This ongoing internal dialogue led to Brooke stepping up to ask a question during the live recording of Kim Lessing and Kate Arend's podcast “Million Dollar Advice” at SXSW EDU. This podcast details the way that our thoughts can make us jump to conclusions, the helpful insights that come from simply asking, the ability to recognize everyone's unique strengths, and the realization that not everyone is going to mirror the expectations you have for them, but that's okay too. Listen to the episode of “Million Dollar Advice” referenced in this episode at the link below. https://schedule.sxswedu.com/2025/events/PP155925

In this special episode recorded on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin speaks with Dr. Yolanda Watson Spiva, President of Complete College America (CCA), a national advocacy organization dedicated to helping more students access, persist, and graduate from college on time. Yolanda shares CCA's systems-level approach to student success, the importance of transfer-friendly policies, and how institutions must shift from being college-ready to student-ready. She also discusses CCA's Council on Equitable AI and how AI can support, rather than hinder, student success. If you're passionate about higher ed reform, retention, and equity, this is an episode you won't want to miss!Guest Name: Dr. Yolanda Watson Spiva - President at Complete College AmericaGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Dr. Watson Spiva's 25+ year career in postsecondary education spans a range of executive leadership, general management, federal government, public affairs, operations and academic officer positions. Dr. Watson Spiva serves as the President of Complete College America (CCA). Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, CCA is a bold national advocate for dramatically increasing college completion rates and closing equity gaps by working with states, systems, institutions, and partners to scale highly effective structural reforms and promote policies that improve student success. CCA has become a national leader in the movement to dramatically increase the percentage of individuals earning a postsecondary credential. Complete College America is organized as an Alliance of 53 (and growing) states, territories, and higher education consortia where executives have committed to ambitious goals of increasing college completion rates, tracking progress toward their goals and implementing a set of evidence-based practices or “Game Changers” that have proven to dramatically increase college completion rates. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

In this special episode recorded on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin speaks with Diego Arambula, Vice President of Educational Transformation at the Carnegie Foundation. Diego discusses how higher education must evolve to remain a powerful engine for economic opportunity — especially for students who are furthest from it. He unpacks the need to rethink degree structures, the role of digital transformation, and how institutions can better prepare students for career success. Tune in to hear how the Carnegie Foundation is leading efforts to reshape college classifications and workforce connections for the next generation of learners.Guest Name: Diego Arambula - Vice President of Educational Transformation, Carnegie FoundationGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Diego Arambula is vice president for educational transformation at the Carnegie Foundation. As vice president, Diego leads ambitious, actionable strategies and builds partnerships with educators, policy makers, parents, employers and community based organizations to advance Carnegie's mission. Diego exercises his passion for transformational change in education through his positions on multiple boards. In 2020, he was appointed to an 8-year term as trustee for the California State University System, the largest and most diverse postsecondary system in the nation. At CSU, he serves as chair of the Education Policy Committee. He also serves as board chair of Summit Public Schools and the Central Valley Community Foundation. He received his bachelor's (A.B.) in government from Harvard University and a master's in education from Stanford University. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Young women are entering the workforce full of potential but without some of the interpersonal skills they need to succeed and advance. That's not just their problem; it's ours too. In this live conversation from SXSW EDU, Amy Gallo talks with Neda Norouzi, an architecture professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio, and Aimee Laun, director of the Career Connections Center at Texas Woman's University, about the gap between what colleges teach and what workplaces expect—and the critical role mentors, managers, professors, and parents can play in bridging it.

TR is joined by Carlos Canela to talk about how educators can use AI responsibly and the importance of connection, even in an AI-forward classroom Show Notes Carlos' Padlet with AI resources for teachers (https://padlet.com/ccanela1/ai-in-the-classroom-resources-tvop6jhj7o5kmve) MCP's Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/modernclassproj) Black Male Educators Convening (https://thecenterblacked.org/professional-learning/bmec/) (BMEC) conference Knowlej (https://www.knowlej.io/) Padlet (https://padlet.com) Canva (https://www.canva.com/) Magic School (https://www.magicschool.ai/) Diffit (https://web.diffit.me/) TextFX (https://textfx.withgoogle.com) Large Language Models discussed in this episode: Google Gemini (https://gemini.google.com) ChatGPT (https://chatgpt.com/) Llama (https://www.llama.com) Claude (https://claude.ai/login) Dave Grohl autographing a toy drum set (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DyO7lvzfw5Q) Hip Hop in Education Conference (https://hiphoped.com/hiphoped-conference-2025/) ISTE (https://iste.org/) SXSW EDU (https://www.sxswedu.com/) Born to Teach (https://www.borntoteachcon.com/) Connect with Carlos on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/techymrc) and TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@techymrc) @techymrc and by email at carlos.canela@ltsconsult.com Learning Experiences for the Upcoming Week Join educator and implementer, Joanna Schindel,  for a live webinar where she'll share her expertise in transforming your ELL classroominto a dynamic, personalized learning environment on Tuesday, April 22 at 7pm ET. Register here: https://modernclassrooms.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN08tkT49zQDuBWj6Zx2AUg We have partnered with Wavio to design a unique progress tracker just for you! Get hands-on experience setting up your Wavio tracker and organizing your course effectively. Learn best practices from ELA teachers already using Wavio and get all your questions answered in this interactive session on Wednesday, April 23 at 7pm ET. Register here: https://modernclassrooms.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_umqjei9RRwGSUjQJVP9cgQ Lindsay Armbruster, MCP implementers and DMCE, is presenting at NERIC Model Schools 2025 on April 22, 2025. If you're attending, make sure to check her out and say hi! Want to start building your own Modern Classroom? Sign up for our summer Virtual Mentorship Program! From either May 19th - June 22nd or June 23rd - July 27th, work with one of our expert educators to build materials for your own classroom. We have scholarships all over the country so you can enroll for free in places such as LA, Oakland, Chicago, Minnesota, Alabama, and more. See if there's an opportunity for you at modernclassrooms.org/apply-now Contact us, follow us online, and learn more: Email us questions and feedback at: podcast@modernclassrooms.org (mailto:podcast@modernclassrooms.org) Listen to this podcast on Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1SQEZ54ptj1ZQ3bV5tEcULSyPttnifZV) Modern Classrooms: @modernclassproj (https://twitter.com/modernclassproj) on Twitter and facebook.com/modernclassproj (https://www.facebook.com/modernclassproj) Kareem: @kareemfarah23 (https://twitter.com/kareemfarah23) on Twitter Toni Rose: @classroomflex (https://twitter.com/classroomflex) on Twitter and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/classroomflex/?hl=en) The Modern Classroom Project (https://www.modernclassrooms.org) Modern Classrooms Online Course (https://learn.modernclassrooms.org) Take our free online course, or sign up for our mentorship program to receive personalized guidance from a Modern Classrooms mentor as you implement your own modern classroom! The Modern Classrooms Podcast is edited by Zach Diamond: @zpdiamond (https://twitter.com/zpdiamond) on Twitter and Learning to Teach (https://www.learningtoteach.co/) Special Guest: Carlos Canela.

In March, we recorded an episode live on stage at SXSW EDU in Austin, Texas. This disagreement is all about ESAs, or Education Savings Accounts. You may have heard of ESAs under a different name, like vouchers or school choice programs. Right now, 18 states have some sort of ESA program in place.The programs are becoming more popular across the country, but should they be? What accounts for the increasing support for ESAs? What risks and benefits do they pose for students and families? Does the rise of ESAs inherently harm our public schools?When we say ESAs, we are NOT talking about 529 plans or other college savings programs. We're talking about K-12 education. These programs create a government-authorized savings account for families, allowing them to take some quantity of the funding that would have supported their child in public school, and use those dollars in the way they see fit: whether that's to supplement private school tuition, parochial school tuition, tutoring, special needs services or for other educational purposes.Shaka Mitchell is a Senior Fellow at the American Federation for Children, an advocacy organization in the school choice movement. He has served in leadership roles at high-performing charter school networks, including Rocketship Education and LEAD Public schools in Nashville.Jaime Puente is the Director of Economic Opportunity at Every Texan, an advocacy and public policy organization striving to expand opportunities for all Texans. He currently oversees their work on education. Previously, Jaime served as Legislative Director for members of the Texas House of Representatives.This episode is moderated by The Disagreement's co-host and co-founder Catherine Cushenberry.Sign up for our newsletter at thedisagreement.substack.com

In this special episode recorded on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin speaks with Halley Hoot from Summer Discovery. Halley shares how her team partners with top universities to offer transformative summer learning experiences for students as young as first grade through high school. She discusses how these programs not only expose students to college-level academics but also help them develop critical life skills and career clarity. Tune in to hear how experiential learning, AI-driven courses, and global education trends are shaping the future of pre-college programs.Guest Name: Halley Hoot, Director of Domestic Recruitment & Customer Success at Summer DiscoveryGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Halley Hoot is the Director of Domestic Recruitment & Customer Success at Summer Discovery where she leads a team of professionals who are dedicated to providing superior pre-college programs for middle and high school students. Halley aids in developing students for the 21st century and teaching transferable skills coveted by employers and university admissions teams.In addition Halley is also passionate about supporting the development of gifted, academically talented, and creative students through Summer Institute for the Gifted (SIG). At SIG, she helps with summer programs emphasizing developing the whole person and using a STEAM+ curriculum, to let students explore their interests and passions. Halley holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Fashion Merchandising from LIM College. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

We have a special episode for you! This week Kim and Kate hit the road for their first ever live event at SXSW EDU! They answer all kinds of questions from how to not turn into a tech bro to how to keep morale in schools high. Everyone's lives are changed and the workplace is improved for all involved. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special episode recorded on site at SXSW EDU, Dustin chats with Annie Chechitelli, Chief Product Officer at Turnitin. Annie shares the exciting launch of Turnitin Clarity, a new tool designed to support both educators and students in navigating AI's role in academic writing. From AI detection to responsible AI use in the classroom, this conversation unpacks the evolving challenges and opportunities in maintaining academic integrity.Guest Name: Annie Chechitelli, Chief Product Officer, TurnitinGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Annie Chechitelli has spent the past two decades innovating with educators to expand access to education, meet the quickly changing needs of learners, and empower students to do their best, original work. As the Chief Product Officer at Turnitin, Annie oversees the Turnitin suite of applications which includes academic integrity, grading and feedback, and assessment capabilities.Prior to joining Turnitin, Annie spent over five years at Amazon where she led Kindle Content for School, Work, and Government and launched the AWS EdTech Growth Advisory team, advising education technology companies on how to grow their product and go-to-market strategies with AWS. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

We're thrilled to bring you another engaging episode recorded live at SXSW EDU in Austin, Texas! Join Trending in Ed host Mike Palmer as he sits down with Lindsay Whorton, President of the Holdsworth Center, to explore innovative approaches to educational leadership, innovation, and the future of K-12.   Lindsay shares her inspiring journey from college hoops to teaching to leading a cutting-edge organization that's transforming how we develop and support educational leaders. We discuss the critical need to invest in people, move beyond traditional professional development, and reimagine the roles of principals and superintendents.   Key takeaways include: The importance of generational investments in educators to achieve high levels of student success.   A deep dive into innovative leadership development models that move beyond traditional methods.   A fresh perspective on the evolving role of the superintendent, from "chief teacher" to a community-focused "mayor" figure focused on civic engagement.   Strategies for restructuring school leadership to better support teachers and foster a more collaborative environment.   An insightful exploration of how lessons from the private sector and other industries can inform and improve educational practices.   A candid discussion on the potential and challenges of AI in education, with a focus on preserving the importance of human connection.   An urgent call to address the changing landscape of the teaching profession and provide robust support for new educators.   This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about educational leadership, innovation, and creating sustainable change in our schools. We tackle the tough questions and offer actionable insights for educators, administrators, and policymakers alike. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on: How to cultivate effective leadership at all levels of the education system.   Strategies for building resilient and supportive school communities.   The future of teaching and learning in an evolving world.   Don't miss this engaging conversation! Subscribe to Trending in Education for more thought-provoking discussions on the forces shaping the future of education. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:34 Lindsay Whorton's Origin Story 01:23 International Education Insights 03:11 The Role of Sports in Education 04:21 Leadership Development at Holdsworth 05:23 Challenges in K-12 Education 08:09 Superintendent and Principal Roles 09:36 Future Directions for Holdsworth 12:21 Adapting to Modern Educational Needs 16:52 The Role of Nonprofits in Education 19:28 AI in Education 25:12 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

In this dynamic episode of Trending in Education, host Mike Palmer connects with Dana Stephenson, co-founder and CEO of Riipen, live from SXSW EDU in Austin. We dive into how Riipen is revolutionizing higher education and the workforce by tackling the critical experience gap head-on. Discover how their innovative platform seamlessly connects students and companies through impactful, skill-specific projects. Dana shares the compelling origin story behind Riipen, revealing the challenges that he and his business partner witnessed among their peers—the struggle to gain that crucial first work experience. Learn how this inspired the creation of Riipen, a platform that's embedding project-based learning directly into a higher ed curriculum, providing students with invaluable real-world experience, vital professional connections, and essential career clarity. Why You Can't Miss This Episode: For Students: Uncover how to get a head start on your career, build a powerful portfolio, and gain the confidence and skills employers demand. Learn how to navigate the evolving job market and future-proof your skills.   For Educators: Discover innovative strategies to enhance your curriculum, boost student engagement, and ensure your graduates are career-ready. Learn how to build stronger connections with industry and stay at the forefront of educational innovation.   For Employers: Learn how to tap into fresh talent, gain valuable insights from the next generation, and support your community—all while addressing your project needs.   For Anyone Interested in the Future of Work: Gain exclusive insights into the skills revolution, the impact of AI on the workforce, and the urgent need for AI literacy in education. Understand how platforms like Riipen are leading the charge in preparing individuals for the changing world of work.   This episode isn't just informative—it's transformative. You'll walk away with actionable insights and a deeper understanding of how learners, higher ed institutions, and employers benefit from a platform focused on work-based learning. Subscribe to Trending in Ed wherever you get your podcasts. Video episodes available on Spotify and Youtube. 00:00 Welcome to Trending in Education 00:17 Introducing Dana Stephenson and Riipen 01:20 The Origin Story of Riipen 02:26 Challenges and Solutions in Work-Based Learning 05:40 The Role of Higher Education Institutions 13:04 The Skills-Based Revolution and AI 23:48 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 25:42 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Join us for a dynamic live recording from the Podcast Stage at SXSW EDU 2025! We're diving into the hottest trends shaping the future of education with a panel of experts. Mike Palmer, host of Trending in Ed and Founder of Palmer Media, leads a lively discussion with Mike Yates from Teach for America's Reinvention Lab, who shares his insights on AI and social media. Jenn Stredler, Managing Director of Common Group, brings her expertise on the intersection of education, workforce, and talent. Julia Shatilo, Programming Director for SXSW EDU, offers a unique perspective on the trends driving innovation in education based on what's submitted and chosen for the conference.   We explore a wide range of topics, including the growing importance of micro schools, the impact of new media on learning, the evolving landscape of Career and Technical Education (CTE), and the double-edged sword of AI in the talent marketplace. We also tackle critical questions about ethical AI use, the reimagining of higher education, and the essential role of relational intelligence in a tech-driven world.   Key Takeaways: Discover how CTE is being reinvented to meet the demands of the modern workforce.   Understand the challenges and opportunities AI presents for both job seekers and employers.   Gain insights into the evolving conversations around higher education and alternative credentialing.   Explore the importance of relational intelligence and social capital in the age of AI.   Reasons for Listening: Stay ahead of the curve on the trends influencing education, from K-12 to higher ed and the workforce.   Gain valuable perspectives from leaders in education, technology, and workforce development.   Understand the critical intersection of education and employment in a rapidly changing world.   Don't miss out on this engaging and informative discussion! Subscribe to Trending in Ed to keep up with everything happening in the rapidly changing world of education. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Event Overview 01:45 Meet the Panelists 02:18 Mike Yates on AI and Education 03:11 Jenn Stredler on Workforce and Education 04:24 Julia Shatilo on South by Southwest EDU 07:20 Panel Discussion on Trends 27:37 AI and Relational Intelligence 27:52 Howard Gardner on Mentorship vs. Influencers 28:58 Model Flexibility and Adaptive Intelligence 30:51 Social Capital and Workforce Trends 33:43 AI's Role in Human Connection 40:14 Gen Z and Apprenticeships 54:28 Future Predictions and AI Skepticism 58:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join us for a special episode of Trending in Education recorded live from the LEGO Education Curiosity Park at SXSW EDU.   We're diving deep into the world of playful learning and the rollout of LEGO Education Science with Dr. Jenny Nash, Head of Impact Education at LEGO. In this fun and insightful conversation, we explore the latest from LEGO Education with a special appearance from host Mike Palmer's six-year-old son, Matthew, who joins in the fun, building and creating with LEGOs as we chat! You'll hear from Mike's wife and occasional Co-Host, Dr. Robin Naughton, who weighs in as a Librarian and Information Scientist at Queens College where she's thinking about Teacher Training and Maker Spaces. Note: there's a bit of the conference buzz in the background, but that's part of the magic – capturing the excitement of learning and discovery in action.   Dr. Nash, a true legend in the field, shares her expertise on problem-based learning and science education while describing LEGO's innovative approaches to K-12 education. We discuss the importance of hands-on learning and how LEGO Education is bringing engagement back into the classroom. We also delve into the findings of LEGO's State of Classroom Engagement Report, highlighting the critical role of engagement and confidence in student learning. Key Takeaways: The LEGO Education Science program and its focus on purposeful play to achieve learning outcomes. Plus motors and wheels are cool!   How LEGO Education is designed to be classroom-ready, supporting teachers with lesson plans, slide decks, and professional development.   The balance between structured and unstructured play in educational settings.   Insights into fostering collaboration and problem-solving skills in the classroom.   Whether you're an educator, parent, or just a lover of LEGOs, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the power of play in education.   Don't Miss: Matthew's creative LEGO car designs and his interaction with Dr. Nash.   The discussion around extending hands-on learning into teacher training programs.   Subscribe to Trending in Education to stay on top of the latest trends and innovations shaping the future of learning!   A special thanks to Dr. Robin Naughton and Matthew Palmer for joining the conversation, and of course, to Dr. Jenny Nash for sharing her expertise and passion for LEGO Education.   Until next time, keep exploring, keep playing, and keep learning! 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:11 Meet Dr. Jenny Nash from LEGO Education 00:51 Playful Learning with LEGO 02:02 Hands-On Learning and Engagement 04:03 LEGO Education Science 09:28 Collaborative Learning with LEGO 11:37 Teacher Workshops and Professional Development 12:04 Classroom Ready Resources for Teachers 13:18 Balancing Play and Structure in Learning 14:58 Extending LEGO Education to Higher Grades 15:43 Hands-On Learning in Teacher Training 18:40 Collaborative Learning and Its Importance 20:35 LEGO Education Science and Competitions 22:38 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 23:14 Conclusion and Future Episodes

Join us for a recap of SXSW EDU 2025! Host Mike Palmer shares his takeaways from the conference, including highlights from the panel discussion he hosted on the podcast stage. Catch highlights from interviews with Dr. Jenny Nash from LEGO Education, Dana Stephenson from Riipen, and Lindsay Whorton from The Holdsworth Center, as Mike shares his experiences attending the conference with his wife and 6-year-old son. Palmer discusses the importance of hands-on learning with Nash and Stephenson and gets into the role of AI in education and transformations in the workforce with Stephenson and Whorton. Subscribe to the feed so you don't miss upcoming episodes including our amazing panel session with Mike Yates, Jenn Stredler, and Julia Shatilo, and Mike's interviews in upcoming episodes with Jenny, Lindsay, and Dana and more. Key takeaways: The importance of hands-on learning and engagement in education: Palmer discusses the importance of hands-on learning and engagement in education with Nash and Stephenson. Hands-on learning allows students to be more engaged and have a deeper understanding of the material.   The need for flexibility and adaptability in a rapidly changing world: Palmer emphasizes the need for flexibility and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. He discusses how this is important for both parents and educators.   The power of tiny experiments and small wins in achieving goals: Palmer talks about the power of tiny experiments and small wins in achieving goals. He provides examples of how this can be applied to both personal and professional goals.   The role of AI in education and the workforce: Palmer discusses the role of AI in education and the workforce with Stephenson. He talks about how AI can be used to personalize learning and provide students with more relevant experiences.   The importance of connecting research to startup activity and venture activity: Palmer emphasizes the importance of connecting research to startup activity and venture activity. He talks about how this can help to bring new ideas and products to market faster.   Subscribe to Trending in Ed where you get your pods and on Youtube to keep up with the accelerating pace of change in education. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and South by Southwest EDU Overview 00:29 March Madness of Learning Trends Panel 02:25 Family Adventures at South by Southwest EDU 03:30 Workforce Development and Future of Work 05:07 Reflections on Past South by Southwest EDU Experiences 08:01 Live Podcast Session Highlights 11:03 Lego Education and Hands-On Learning 14:48 STEM and Maker Kits at the Expo Hall 18:31 Keynote Highlights and Tiny Experiments 21:11 Interviews with Educational Leaders 28:00 Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Conferences

  How do your aptitudes intersect with your Enneagram type? Aptitudes are about your innate abilities. Understanding your personal aptitudes can enhance your personal and professional relationships as it allows you to "pinpoint really specific things you can celebrate, lean into, and have confidence about," explains Betsy Wills. Betsy Wills and Alex Ellison, co-authors of the insightful new book, Your Hidden Genius: The Science-Backed Strategy to Uncovering and Harnessing Your Innate Talents, join me to share their unique experiences with the Enneagram, their journey in writing their new book, and how they've made a once-expensive aptitude assessment accessible to everyone. In this episode, you'll learn: The strengths and challenges of a One-Three working relationship How aptitudes and personality types intersect Practical advice for career wellness and personal fulfillment The significance of uncovering your innate talents Don't miss out on this engaging conversation! Tune in now and take the first step towards uncovering your hidden genius.     ==================================================== ABOUT OUR GUESTS Alex Ellison is the founder of Throughline Guidance, a college and career counseling practice. Her work as a consultant has allowed her to work with individuals and organizations around the world. She writes and lectures extensively on the subject of careers and college readiness and has been a featured speaker at SXSWedu, NYU's Stern School of Business, Northwestern University's Alumni Association, the Kuala Lumpur International Youth Discourse, and TedX. Alex holds a degree in German and business from Northwestern University and a master's in public policy from the University of Nevada. She lives in Santa Cruz, California. LinkedIn and Substack | www.yourhiddengenius.com Betsy Wills is the co-founder of YouScience, a national online psychometric-assessment service. She is a regular guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University and at New York University Stern School of Business and has been a featured speaker for TedX Women. She is also the Director of Marketing and Branding at Diversified Trust, a wealth management firm. She serves on the Advisory Board of the Peggy Guggenheim Museum in Venice and the Music City Center Authority in Nashville. Betsy is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and holds a Master's of Education in Human Resource Development from Peabody College. She lives in Nashville. LinkedIn and Instagram | www.yourhiddengenius.com   MORE RESOURCES Typology Institute Enneagram Assessment Typology Institute Online Courses Ian Morgan Cron website The Fix: How the Twelve Steps Offer a Surprising Path of Transformation for the Well-Adjusted, Down-and-Out, and Everyone In Between YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok  

On this Live Greatly podcast episode, Kristel Bauer sits down with Betsy Wills (cofounder of YouScience) and certified career coach Alex Ellison to discuss their new book, YOUR HIDDEN GENIUS: The Science-Backed Strategy to Uncovering and Harnessing Your Innate Talents (Harvest; 1/21/2025).  Kristel, Betsy and Alex discuss aptitudes and how understanding them can support you in your personal and professional life. Tune in now! Key Takeaways From This Episode: A look into aptitudes, what they are and how they can help you in your personal and professional life Discovering your natural talents How aptitudes are the seeds of your skills A look into the book, YOUR HIDDEN GENIUS: The Science-Backed Strategy to Uncovering and Harnessing Your Innate Talents (Harvest; 1/21/2025). What is an idea rate and how can it impact your abilities What is a spatial aptitude How understanding your aptitudes can support meaningful change  ABOUT THE AUTHORS: Betsy Wills is the cofounder of YouScience, a national online psychometric-assessment service. She is a regular guest lecturer at Vanderbilt University and at New York University Stern School of Business and has been a featured speaker for TedX Women. She is also the Director of Marketing and Branding at Diversified Trust, a wealth management firm. She serves on the Advisory Board of the Peggy Guggenheim Museum in Venice and the Music City Center Authority in Nashville, Tennessee. Betsy is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and holds a Master's of Education in Human Resource Development from Peabody College. She lives in Nashville. Alex Ellison is the founder of Throughline Guidance, a college and career counseling practice. Her work as a consultant has allowed her to work with individuals and organizations around the world. She writes and lectures extensively on the subject of careers and college readiness and has been a featured speaker at SXSWedu, NYU's Stern School of Business, Northwestern University's Alumni Association, the Kuala Lumpur International Youth Discourse, and TedX. Alex holds a degree in German and business from Northwestern University and a master's in public policy from the University of Nevada. She lives in Santa Cruz, California. Connect with Betsy: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsywills/  You Science: https://www.youscience.com/about-us/  Connect with Alex: Website: https://www.alexellison.com/ Buy the book, YOUR HIDDEN GENIUS: The Science-Backed Strategy to Uncovering and Harnessing Your Innate Talents (Harvest; 1/21/2025): https://www.yourhiddengenius.com/   About the Host of the Live Greatly podcast, Kristel Bauer: Kristel Bauer is a corporate wellness and performance expert, keynote speaker and TEDx speaker supporting organizations and individuals on their journeys for more happiness and success. She is the author of Work-Life Tango: Finding Happiness, Harmony, and Peak Performance Wherever You Work (John Murray Business November 19, 2024). With Kristel's healthcare background, she provides data driven actionable strategies to leverage happiness and high-power habits to drive growth mindsets, peak performance, profitability, well-being and a culture of excellence. Kristel's keynotes provide insights to “Live Greatly” while promoting leadership development and team building.   Kristel is the creator and host of her global top self-improvement podcast, Live Greatly. She is a contributing writer for Entrepreneur, and she is an influencer in the business and wellness space having been recognized as a Top 10 Social Media Influencer of 2021 in Forbes. As an Integrative Medicine Fellow & Physician Assistant having practiced clinically in Integrative Psychiatry, Kristel has a unique perspective into attaining a mindset for more happiness and success. Kristel has presented to groups from the American Gas Association, Bank of America, bp, Commercial Metals Company, General Mills, Northwestern University, Santander Bank and many more. Kristel has been featured in Forbes, Forest & Bluff Magazine, Authority Magazine & Podcast Magazine and she has appeared on ABC 7 Chicago, WGN Daytime Chicago, Fox 4's WDAF-TV's Great Day KC, and Ticker News. Kristel lives in the Fort Lauderdale, Florida area and she can be booked for speaking engagements worldwide. To Book Kristel as a speaker for your next event, click here. Website: www.livegreatly.co  Follow Kristel Bauer on: Instagram: @livegreatly_co  LinkedIn: Kristel Bauer Twitter: @livegreatly_co Facebook: @livegreatly.co Youtube: Live Greatly, Kristel Bauer To Watch Kristel Bauer's TEDx talk of Redefining Work/Life Balance in a COVID-19 World click here. Click HERE to check out Kristel's corporate wellness and leadership blog Click HERE to check out Kristel's Travel and Wellness Blog Disclaimer: The contents of this podcast are intended for informational and educational purposes only. Always seek the guidance of your physician for any recommendations specific to you or for any questions regarding your specific health, your sleep patterns changes to diet and exercise, or any medical conditions.  Always consult your physician before starting any supplements or new lifestyle programs. All information, views and statements shared on the Live Greatly podcast are purely the opinions of the authors, and are not medical advice or treatment recommendations.  They have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration.  Opinions of guests are their own and Kristel Bauer & this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for statements made by guests.  Neither Kristel Bauer nor this podcast takes responsibility for possible health consequences of a person or persons following the information in this educational content.  Always consult your physician for recommendations specific to you.