Getting Smart Podcast

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Dr. Tessa Forshaw and Rich Braden, authors of Innovation-ish: How Anyone Can Create Breakthrough Solutions to Real Problems in the Real World. They explore how innovation mindsets, creative problem-solving, and AI as a co-intelligence tool can empower anyone to tackle complex challenges. Drawing from their experiences at Stanford's d.school and Harvard, Tessa and Rich break down the frameworks, mindset shifts, and practical moves that make innovation accessible to everyone. Whether you're a leader, educator, or simply curious about the future of work and learning, this conversation will inspire you to embrace your inner innovator. Outline (00:00) Introduction: The Age of Innovation (04:32) The AI Inflection Point (08:19) Understanding Innovation Mindsets (12:14) Applying Mindsets in Teams (15:37) Innovation Moves: Beyond Rigid Frameworks (20:09) Activating Through Metacognition Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn | Tessa Forshaw LinkedIn | Rich Braden Innovationish

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.

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Jeanine Collins, co-founder and Chief Impact Officer of the Center for the Future of Learning joins to share how Nevada is transforming its education system through bold partnerships, learner-centered design, and the arts. This episode dives into her journey from classroom teaching to leading statewide initiatives that redefine success for students through the Portrait of a Learner. Jeanine discusses the power of arts in education, how intermediary organizations can bridge policy and practice, and the importance of building collective action to drive systemic change. Tune in to explore how Nevada is fostering meaningful, interactive learning experiences that empower students to thrive in their communities and beyond. Outline (00:00) Early Career and Education (04:14) Transition to Education Policy (06:54) Founding the Center for the Future of Learning (12:22) Youth Engagement and Innovation (14:53) Values-Driven Leadership (20:08) Building Networks and Future Vision Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Nevada Portrait of a Learner Jeanine Collins Linkedin Previous podcast with Jeanine on Nevada Succeeds Center for the Future of Learning

Tony Wagner is an education author focusing on deeper learning and student agency, while Ulrik Christensen is a physician-turned-edtech leader. They discuss the significance of mastery learning in today's distraction-filled world. The duo emphasizes real-world applications, showcasing successful models from schools like Red Bridge. They advocate for fostering intrinsic motivation and highlight innovative approaches to curriculum that prioritize student agency and lifelong learning skills. Their insights are essential for educators and policymakers.

Matt Bowman, co-founder of Open Ed and education innovator, discusses the power of unbundled learning in personalizing education. He shares how schools can balance public and private resources, allowing families to become education designers. Bowman emphasizes the importance of flexible, competency-based learning and how AI is reshaping educational pathways. He also highlights the creative projects that foster deeper understanding and the significance of community in this evolving educational landscape.

Dr. Isaac Agbeshie-Noye, Program Director at the SHRM Foundation, dives deep into the future of work with a skills-first approach. He emphasizes unlocking potential through aligning skills with workforce needs. The discussion reveals barriers to skills-based hiring, like change fatigue and economic shifts. Isaac explores the impact of AI on job markets, highlighting opportunities for digital literacy. He advocates for strong partnerships between employers and educational institutions to enhance skill development, providing a roadmap for a more equitable workforce.

Dive into the future of education as two hosts discuss revolutionary concepts like Alpha School’s innovative two-hour AI-driven learning. Discover the nuanced role of ambient AI in everyday life and its implications for assessment. They explore how relational intelligence can enrich learning experiences and ponder the balance between structured education and real-world exploration. With insights on personalized education and gamification, this conversation offers a captivating glimpse into the evolving landscape of teaching and learning.