Week in Edtech 4/16/2025: ASU+GSV Recap, GPT-4.1 Launch, Harvard vs. DEI Mandates, Linda McMahon’s Edtech Debut, Claude’s Study Mode, Yuanfudao’s AI Tutor, Brisk Wins GSV Cup, and More! Feat. Collin Earnst of the EdTech Leadership Collective

Apr 25, 2025

Collin Earnst, founder of the EdTech Leadership Collective, discusses the latest in educational technology. He reflects on the energy from the ASU+GSV conference and highlights key trends in AI integration and market consolidation. The conversation takes a turn as they explore Harvard's pushback against federal DEI mandates and the implications for higher education. Collin emphasizes the need for innovative leadership in EdTech and the importance of human connections amidst rapid technological changes.

Ask episode

AI Snips

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

INSIGHT

AI Integration Matures in EdTech

AI strategy in EdTech has matured from just excitement to careful, integrated product design.
Recognition of interoperability and balanced AI use signals deepened understanding and progress in the field.

INSIGHT

EdTech Market Consolidation Looms

EdTech is entering a consolidation phase after a period of rapid expansion.
Viable companies with strong pedagogical grounding and growth will survive while others face absorption or exit.

INSIGHT

Harvard Defies Federal DEI Mandates

Harvard's refusal to comply with federal DEI mandates challenges the status quo in higher education.
Their stance may empower other universities despite financial risks and political backlash.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Get the app

Send us a text

Join hosts Alex Sarlin and Ben Kornell as they explore the latest developments in education technology, from ASU+GSV insights to AI model releases, international edtech innovations, and federal policy shake-ups.

✨ Episode Highlights:

[00:01:45] ASU+GSV recap and post-conference energy
[00:04:48] Strategic AI integration gains traction
[00:05:56] Edtech market braces for consolidation
[00:08:45] Linda McMahon engages at ASU+GSV
[00:10:18] Challenges merging CS and AI in schools
[00:13:16] Harvard pushes back on federal DEI demands signals sector shift
[00:23:21] Yuanfudao launches next-gen AI tutor
[00:28:20] OpenAI releases GPT-4.1 with huge upgrades
[00:30:25] Google and Claude enhance AI tools
[00:33:56] Brisk wins GSV Cup and raises $15M
[00:35:20] Big funding rounds hit across edtech
[00:37:56] Global expansion and tutor startup funding

Plus, special guest:

[00:38:27] Collin Earnst of the Ed-tech Leadership Collective on building edtech leadership

😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!

Follow our Podcast on:
Sign up for the Edtech Insiders newsletter.
Follow Edtech Insiders on LinkedIn!

🎉 Presenting Sponsor:

Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.

Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.

Tuck Advisors is the M&A firm for EdTech companies. Run by serial entrepreneurs with over 25 years of experience founding, investing in, and selling companies, Tuck believes you deserve M&A advisors who work as hard as you do.