00:00:20 — Manisha introduces the guest, Brett Kopf, founder of Remind.com and Omela, platforms that facilitate communication and financial management in educational institutions.

00:01:20 — Brett's fatherhood update and its influence on his perspective.

00:02:00 — How becoming a parent has impacted Brett's views on education.

00:04:00 — Manisha and Brett discuss the deep love parents have for their children and how it influences their decisions about education.

00:04:40 — Business model of Omella and its implications for schools and parents.

00:05:20 — Manisha queries Brett about his work with micro school leaders.

00:07:28 — Brett explains the role of customer feedback in his entrepreneurial journey.

00:08:26 — Discovery of homeschooling and hybrid schooling options.

00:15:00 — The art of customer follow-up, according to Brett.

00:21:16 — On pricing strategy: Brett advises treating business like a science experiment.

00:32:42 — How ADD and dyslexia have enhanced Brett's executive skills.

00:38:13 — Brett deliberates on the pros and cons of raising funds vs. charging for value.

00:41:55 — Future forecast: Brett predicts trends in homeschooling and hybrid schooling.

00:49:23 — Manisha and Brett Kopf share their passion for learning and growth, emphasizing how these experiences can create wonderful connections.

This podcast is made possible through a generous grant from the Vela Education Fund

VELA Education Fund is catalyzing a vibrant alternative education ecosystem. VELA provides trust-based funding to entrepreneurs, fosters community-building and knowledge-sharing, and increases visibility through storytelling that promotes cultural awareness and acceptance of the out-of-system space. Today, VELA serves the largest community of out-of-system education entrepreneurs in the country, with over 2,000 community members. About half of VELA’s community members operate small learning environments, and the other half are ecosystem and community builders offering direct services and support across the out-of-system space. Learn more at

velaedfund.org