In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we're joined by Nick Salmon, Mar Cano Mesa, and Erin O’Reilly, co-authors of TeamEd, a transformative guide to collaboration in education. Together, they share the story behind their international partnership and their deeply rooted belief that teaming—at every level of the education ecosystem—is essential to building a more learner-centered, sustainable, and joyful system.

We dig into what makes a true team (not just a group), how ecosystem thinking influences team development, and how teacher preparation programs can intentionally plant the seeds of collaboration. Erin shares how she integrates team-based principles into her work training future educators, while Mar explores how visiting schools like Green School Bali and High Tech High shaped her approach. Nick reminds us that education needs diverse voices—especially non-traditional ones—and that the power of team teaching can unlock possibilities we never imagined.

Tune in to hear how this trio models the very work they advocate for—blending ideas, supporting one another’s growth, and pushing education toward a more equitable, connected, and empowered future.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

Why true collaboration means more than just working in groups
The role of ecosystems in transforming education
Practical strategies for building trust and psychological safety in teams
How teacher prep programs can use teaming to support retention
The power of including non-traditional voices in education
Using teaming as a model for both staff and students

Resources:

Read TeamEd
Green School Bali – A model of holistic, sustainability-focused education
High Tech High
Connect with Nick on LinkedIn
Connect with Mar Cano on LinkedIn
Connect with Erin on LinkedIn

Produced by NOVA

271. Transforming Education Through Teaming with Nick Salmon, Mar Cano Mesa, and Erin O’Reilly