Getting Smart Podcast

Join Izumi Vázquez, a Harvard grad and UNICEF Youth Foresight Fellow, alongside Caitlin McKern and Shai Naides from UNICEF, as they explore the power of youth voices in reshaping education. They discuss critical gaps in support during transitions and why youth often lack representation in policy. Learn how the Youth Foresight Fellowship empowers young leaders to envision inclusive futures, and discover practical tools for incorporating student feedback. From building confidence to equipping youth with transferable skills, this conversation is a call to action for a more engaged future.

In the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia dive into a dynamic mix of topics shaping the future of learning and beyond. From exploring early reading development and its ties to brain pathways, to addressing the ethical concerns around AI and student surveillance, this episode balances critical education insights with thought-provoking discussions. The hosts also delve into the concept of "cognitive luxury," emphasizing the importance of creating space for deep, free, and slow thinking in today's fast-paced world. Wrapping up with the awe-inspiring migration of monarch butterflies and their remarkable precision, this episode offers a unique blend of education, innovation, and human connection. Tune in to explore how these themes intersect and inspire a brighter future for learners everywhere. Outline (00:00) Youth Perspectives on AI and Surveillance (05:17) Early Reading Development and Brain Pathways (10:24) Gifted and Talented Programs: Rethinking Early Testing (16:06) Cognitive Luxury: Spaciousness, Agency, and Depth (24:55) YouTube as an Educational Ecosystem (36:15) Monarch Butterflies and Human Connection (42:08) The Art of Touch: Tearing Your Food Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Hechinger Report More in Common Builders Movement Arthur Brooks - Love Your Enemies

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Shawnee Caruthers sits down with Jen Chow, co-founder and COO of Polygence, Rahul Patel, founder of Hypothesis to Hardware, and Zohra Khawaja, founder of Hearts Against Homelessness, to explore how equitable mentorship and personalized learning systems can empower students to thrive. The conversation delves into the transformative power of mentorship when it becomes more than just a "nice-to-have," highlighting how mentorship systems that prioritize student agency, critical thinking, and curiosity can create meaningful, scalable, and equitable learning opportunities. From the role of expert mentors to the integration of AI in education, this discussion emphasizes the importance of meeting learners where they are and creating pathways for all students to succeed—regardless of their circumstances. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of impact and actionable strategies for building mentorship systems that work for everyone. Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Getting Smart Podcast (06:05) The Impact of Personalized Learning (08:49) Zohra's Journey and the Future of Mentorship (24:38) Passion Projects and Student Agency (29:47) Overcoming Challenges and Accessibility (36:16) Recognition, Impact, and Closing Thoughts Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Polygence Hearts Against Homelessness Hypothesis to Hardware LinkedIn | Zohra Khawaja LinkedIn | Rahul Patel LinkedIn | Jin Chow

Dr. Douglas Fisher, a professor at San Diego State and a leader at Health Sciences High School, dives into the nuanced world of AI in education. He discusses his new book, emphasizing the urgent need for AI literacy among students. Fisher shares insights on teaching ethical AI use, essential skills like data literacy, and practical classroom applications. He advocates for an 'about, for, with' AI framework and warns against repeating past mistakes in tech integration. A thought-provoking conversation for educators seeking to empower students in a digital future.

Ira David Socol is an education writer focused on mastery learning, while Pam Moran, a former superintendent, champions systemic changes in assessment. Liz Calvert, principal at Madison High School, implements deeper learning practices. They discuss redefining success in education beyond traditional measures, fostering student agency, and the importance of embracing mistakes as learning opportunities. The trio emphasizes the need for belief shifts in leadership and the moral obligation to ensure equitable grading that reflects true learning.

In this engaging discussion, Tessa Forshaw and Rich Braden, authors of Innovation-ish, share their insights on making innovation accessible to everyone. Tessa, a cognitive scientist, emphasizes innovation mindsets and the importance of metacognition. Rich, a creativity educator with a background in improv, highlights practical innovation moves that adapt to context. They explore AI as a co-intelligence tool and explain how diverse teams can creatively problem-solve, making innovation not just for the elite, but attainable for all.

Jenny Curtin, Director of Education at the Barr Foundation, specializes in transforming high schools for equity and future readiness. She discusses the systemic inequities she's witnessed and the challenges in shifting entrenched community beliefs. Highlighting the importance of student voice, Jenny advocates for collaborative design and centering educators in reform efforts. She shares insights on redefining graduation requirements and emphasizes the need for meaningful postsecondary preparation to ensure that diplomas truly unlock opportunities for all students.

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Paul Benedict, associate professor and executive director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Ohio University, about their groundbreaking AI initiative. In just two years, the College of Business transformed how students think about AI, entrepreneurship, and real-world problem-solving. From rapid prototyping workshops to AI-powered business solutions, Paul shares how Ohio University is preparing students to be AI-capable and thrive in a tech-driven world. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about future-ready learning and innovative uses of AI in education. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Ohio University's AI Initiative (14:21) Five Key Areas of AI Application (18:03) Entrepreneurial Mindset and Career Paths (22:05) AI Programs and Curriculum Integration (25:54) Leadership and Future Initiatives Links Read the fulll blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Ohio University The Artificial Intelligence Show

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Ronald Dahl, a pediatrician and developmental scientist at UC Berkeley, reveals why adolescence is a crucial time for growth. He explains that puberty reorients the brain, enhancing social sensitivity and responses. Dr. Dahl emphasizes the importance of 'mattering'—feeling valued and impactful—as a key motivator for adolescents. He advocates for experiential learning through the arts and civic engagement, while urging educators to foster meaningful connections that empower young people with agency and autonomy.

Jon Alfuth, Senior Director of State Policy at KnowledgeWorks, and Julianna Charles Brown, Senior Director of Systems Transformation, delve into the potential of transformative education policies. They discuss how state frameworks can reshape learning into personalized and competency-based systems. The duo emphasizes the importance of a shared vision, like a Portrait of a Graduate, and highlight successful initiatives in Montana and Washington. Listeners will gain insights into flexible learning pathways and the crucial alignment of policy with practical classroom applications.