Getting Smart Podcast

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Mason Pashia sits down with David McCullough III, co-founder of the American Exchange Project, to explore how domestic student exchanges can foster empathy, bridge cultural divides, and build lifelong curiosity. Learn how this innovative program connects high school students across the U.S., encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new perspectives, and contribute to their communities. Tune in to hear about the transformative power of travel, the origins of the program, and its vision for creating a more united and empathetic future Outline (00:00) Introduction and Background (04:31) Origins of the American Exchange Project (08:35) History of Exchange Programs (16:41) Current State of American Exchange Project (21:58) Program Structure and Activities (34:12) Future Growth and Vision Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here American Exchange Project LinkedIn

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Rebecca Midles sits down with Dr. Bill Nicely, Educator in Residence at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, to explore how cross-state, cross-sector collaboration in Kansas City is transforming education. They discuss the Real World Learning Initiative, the importance of market value assets for students, and how partnerships between urban, suburban, and rural districts are creating equitable opportunities. Tune in to learn how this innovative approach is preparing students for the future of work and fostering systemic change in education. Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (03:39) Collaboration During the Pandemic (07:12) Challenges and Successes in Cross-State Collaboration (11:38) The Role of Business Partnerships (18:54) Measuring Success and Quality (25:44) Future Trends in Education Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation  

In this enlightening discussion, Sangeet Paul Choudary, author of Reshuffle and platform strategist, delves into the reshaping of markets through AI. He highlights how curiosity, curation, and judgment are becoming more valuable as knowledge becomes commoditized. The conversation contrasts using AI merely as a tool versus leveraging it as an engine to redesign business models and learning systems, illustrated with examples like Figma and TikTok. Sangeet also examines AI's unique role in coordinating fragmented systems, offering a roadmap for navigating the future.

Hayley Spira-Bauer, Chief Academic Officer at Fullmind and host of Learning Can't Wait, discusses how AI can ease teacher workloads and enrich student engagement. The conversation emphasizes the vital role of media literacy in today's digital age, helping students critically assess information. Spira-Bauer also shares insights on fostering personalized learning and the importance of human connections in education. Moreover, she explores the transition to self-directed learning, encouraging competencies that prepare students for real-world challenges.

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia explore key topics shaping education today, from the varying start dates of schools across the U.S. to the global progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They dive into data on teacher shortages, discussing challenges with retention and exploring innovative solutions like rethinking educator models. The conversation also touches on the neuroscience of adolescent identity formation, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for healthy risk-taking and personal growth in schools. Tune in to hear insights on how schools can address current challenges while fostering connection, curiosity, and purpose among learners. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Agenda (04:02) Global Goals and School Meals Progress (07:40) Public School Perception Survey Results (12:48) Teacher Shortage Data and Analysis (17:36) Rethinking Teacher Models (27:28) Identity Formation and Adolescent Development (37:23) Human Expression and Connection (42:47) What's That Song? Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here When Do Kids Go Back to School? Exclusive Poll: As Support for Schools Plummets, Americans Resist Closing Education Department Reading for Fun: Student Experiences How an Indiana District Puts a Premium on Teacher Autonomy Overview of Teacher Shortages How Can We Keep Teachers Teaching? State of the American Teacher Survey The Teaching Model That’s Keeping Educators in Schools The Great Simplification Podcast: Taylor Guthrie Sand Talk: Indigenous Thinking in a World That’s Lost Its Way Mile-Long Table in Denver Seats Thousands of Strangers to Eat and Celebrate Community Introducing Kestrel and Other Songs  

Dr. Dave Richards, Executive Director of the Future Learning Council and former Michigan superintendent, discusses Michigan's innovative educational transformation. He highlights the shift to personalized, competency-based learning and the collaboration among school districts to enhance student outcomes. Richards shares insights on micro-schools and their role in education reform, as well as the importance of professional development for educators. The conversation emphasizes community empowerment and the future of learning in providing equitable opportunities for all students.

Michael Stone, VP of Innovative Learning at Public Education Foundation, and Kristen Burrus, a passionate program manager at the first K-14 digital fabrication center, dive into transformative education through fab labs. They discuss Chattanooga's journey in project-based learning and the Volkswagen eLab Network. With a focus on bridging education and workforce readiness, they explore credentialing and essential skills, showcasing how innovative technologies like the Fabfolio app elevate student engagement and real-world problem-solving.

Explore the fascinating intersection of poetry, art, and identity on this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast featuring Mason Pashia. Mason discusses his debut book, Kestrel and Other Songs, and dives deep into the creative process, the power of words, and the ways poetry invites us to see the world differently. From his inspirations like Robert Macfarlane to the influence of place and personal experiences, Mason shares insights that connect creativity with education, identity, and community. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that celebrates storytelling, imagination, and the transformative role of art in shaping how we view and engage with the world. Get your copy now! Outline (00:00) Introduction to Kestrel (02:32) The Art of Poetry (12:00) Writing from a Place (15:20) Art and Education (21:45) Futures Thinking and Abundance (25:44) Closing Thoughts and Reflections Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Into Wind Buy Kestrel Landmarks by Robert Macfarlane

Casey Evans, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs at American University's Kogod School of Business, discusses how AI is reshaping business education. She emphasizes the need to integrate AI literacy and crucial soft skills, like professionalism and communication, into the curriculum. The conversation highlights innovative initiatives, including an AI and Business Analytics major, designed to prepare students for a future driven by AI. Casey also addresses evolving professional licensure and the importance of interdisciplinary learning in fostering real-world entrepreneurial experiences.

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark dives into the intersection of education and workforce innovation with Kerry McKittrick, Co-Director of Harvard's Project on Workforce. Together, they explore the evolving job market in the AI era, discussing challenges like the "AI job apocalypse" and the importance of creating agile pathways to economic mobility. Kerry highlights the critical role of work-based learning, industry partnerships, and personalized career navigation to prepare learners for a complex and dynamic workforce. Tune in to hear about the future of work, education's response, and how regional and adaptive pathways can create equitable opportunities for all. Outline (00:00) Introduction: AI's Impact on Jobs (02:27) Pathways to Economic Mobility (04:12) Current Job Market Challenges (09:05) Education's Response to Workforce Changes (14:21) Governors' Role in Workforce Development (24:58) Conclusion and Future Work Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Kerry McKittrick | LinkedIn Bloomberg Philanthropies CTE Initiative Harvard Project on Workforce