In this episode of JOY over Happiness, Dr. Jon Eckert talks with Sean Riley, who’s spent nearly two decades at The Stony Brook School and is now a leading AI expert, about what it looks like to navigate AI in education with wisdom and purpose.

Sean shares his journey from a blue-collar upbringing into education and leadership, and how that formation shapes the way he approaches technology today. From helping schools move beyond fear and policy toward thoughtful, mission-aligned strategy, to reminding educators that AI should serve human relationships, not replace them. This conversation is a reminder that even in the middle of disruption, joy is found in meaningful work, wise decisions, and staying rooted in what matters most.

Mentioned:

That Hideous Strength by C.S. Lewis

Edified Strategies

AI Daily Brief

Connect with us:

Center for School Leadership at Baylor University

LinkedIn

Baylor MA in School Leadership