Getting Smart Podcast

The latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast dives into Kentucky's innovative "United We Learn" initiative, which emphasizes community-driven education, competency-based learning, and local accountability systems. Host Rebecca Midles is joined by Sarah Snipes, Director of Innovative Learning at the Kentucky Department of Education; Karen Perry, Executive Director at the Center for Next Generation Leadership; and David Cook, former Director of Innovative Learning, to discuss how Kentucky is building sustainable systems of education transformation. Together, they explore the importance of trust, collaboration, and shared vision in creating vibrant learning experiences for every student. Tune in to hear how Kentucky's efforts are inspiring education leaders nationwide, and learn why this model could be a blueprint for other states.

• (00:00) Introduction & Guest Roles
• (06:30) Building Networks & Partnerships
• (16:03) Creating Shared Vision
• (26:34) Portrait of a Learner Process
• (32:47) District Models & Implementation
• (36:00) Sustainability & Looking Ahead

• Read the full blog here
• Watch the full blog here
• David Cook LinkedIn
• Sarah Snipes LinkedIn
• Karen Perry LinkedIn
• Previous blog by Stephanie and David

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. David Dimmett, CEO of Project Lead the Way, to discuss the critical importance of AI literacy, STEM pathways, and career readiness in today's rapidly evolving world. They explore how Project Lead the Way is preparing students and educators by integrating AI tools, ethical reasoning, and durable skills into learning experiences. Dimmett emphasizes the role of applied humanities in creating tools that serve humanity and discusses initiatives like Career Advantage, which focuses on career exposure, work-based learning, and industry-recognized credentials. Tune in to hear how education leaders can navigate this dynamic landscape while equipping students with the skills to thrive.

• (00:00) Introduction & Planning Season
• (01:44) AI Breakthroughs & The Future of Work
• (10:08) AI Literacy Course & Framework
• (18:37) Career Advantage & Skilled Trades
• (25:16) AI Pushback & The Path Forward

• Read the full blog here
• Watch the full video here
• PLTW
• LinkedIn | David Dimmett

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, hosts Mason Pashia and Tom Vander Ark explore the paradoxes defining education and technology in 2025. From the rise of generative AI—simultaneously empowering creativity and centralizing power—to the tension between secure schools and porous, community-connected learning environments, they unpack the complexities leaders face in an ever-evolving landscape. The conversation also delves into scarcity vs abundance mindsets, prescribed vs personalized learning pathways, and the critical role of intentionality and values in navigating uncertain times. Tune in to discover how embracing paradoxes can lead to more thoughtful, innovative leadership in education.

• (00:00) Introduction: The Year of Paradox
• (05:23) Secure vs Porous: Safety and Community
• (10:16) Scarcity vs Abundance: Mindset and Resources
• (19:24) Pathways: Prescribed vs Personalized Learning
• (29:47) Creativity and AI: Expression vs Slop
• (36:50) Good and Evil: Values in Uncertain Times

• Read the full blog here
• Watch the full video here
• Tom Vander Ark | LinkedIn

On this episode of Catching Up, hosts Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia dive into key topics shaping education in 2026. From the rise of AI in classrooms and concerns about its regulation to a deep dive into the potential of scholastic journalism as a tool for real-world learning, they explore how education can foster connection, critical thinking, and creativity. The duo also shares their top 10 predictions for 2026, including insights on media literacy, work-based learning, and the future of education funding. Tune in for thought-provoking ideas, actionable insights, and even a little inspiration on building forts as adults!

• (00:00) Introduction
• (01:17) AI Pessimism & Trends
• (05:44) Scholastic Journalism Deep Dive
• (10:48) Top 10 Predictions for 2026
• (22:28) School Choice & Funding
• (29:30) Science of Reading & Work-Based Learning
• (45:28) What's That Song?

• Watch the full video here
• Gallup polling - 80% of Americans favor regulating AI
• Pew study - Only 17% believe AI will have a positive impact
• Grey Goo - Britannica explanation
• Economist article - Blue book sales doubling due to AI
• Child Care Micro-Centers Filling Empty Classrooms in Chattanooga, TN
• Peer Mental Health Support in Great Falls Public Schools, Montana
• Local News Initiative - Vanishing Newspapers
• Center for Scholastic Journalism - Decline in Scholastic Journalism
• State of News - News Deserts
• Cell Phone Bans in Schools - Campus Safety Magazine
• AI Infiltration and Use in Education - Center for Democracy and Technology
• AI Tutoring Development - LearnLM DeepMind Report
• Science of Reading - AEI Article

In the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with education leader Richard Carranza, Chief Strategy and Global Development Officer at IXL. Together, they explore transformative topics like the growing role of AI in education, the enduring importance of arts in identity development, and how personalized learning tools are shaping classrooms of the future. Carranza emphasizes that while AI offers powerful opportunities for efficiency and innovation, it will never replace the need for passionate, well-trained educators. The conversation delves into the challenges system leaders face, including budget constraints, changing learning environments, and preparing students for a future defined by tools and careers that have yet to emerge. Listen in to gain insights on how to lead with equity, embrace technology, and create transformative learning experiences.

• (00:00) Introduction
• (03:30) The Importance of Arts in Education
• (05:50) AI in Education: Tools Not Replacements
• (08:10) Leading Systems in the Age of AI
• (14:10) IXL's Approach to AI and EdTech
• (27:32) Looking Forward: Advice for Education Leaders

• Read the full blog here
• Watch the full video here
• LinkedIn
• IXL Learning

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen engages with Wangchuck Wangchuck and Tashi Dendup to explore Bhutan's innovative approach to learner-centered practices. Learn how Bhutan connects education with its community, culture, and environment to foster critical thinking, collaboration, and sustainability. Through a whole-school approach, Bhutan is not only enhancing student engagement but also aligning its education system with its Gross National Happiness philosophy. This conversation highlights impactful lessons on transforming education systems to prepare learners for the complexities of the 21st century.

• (00:00) Introduction to Place-Based Education
• (03:42) Welcome to Bhutan
• (06:34) Understanding Bhutan's Context
• (11:37) Evolution of Education in Bhutan
• (17:45) Place-Based Education in Practice
• (21:37) Student and Teacher Impact
• (29:12) Lessons Learned and Key Takeaways

• Watch the full video here
• Read the full blog here
• Center for School Curriculum and Development
• Ministry of Education and Skills Development
• Teton Science Schools

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Diane Tavenner, founder and CEO of Futre, and Marshawn Brown, a student user of the platform. Together, they discuss how Futre empowers students to explore diverse career pathways with transparency and dignity. From personalized career exploration and work-based learning integration to long-term tools for student success, this conversation reimagines the mission of education. Learn how schools can support students in navigating post-secondary options and preparing for meaningful, purpose-driven futures.

• (00:00) Introduction to Futre Platform
• (09:02) Career Discovery and Exploration
• (13:33) Work-Based Learning Integration
• (22:35) Student Experience and Recommendations

• Read the full blog here
• Watch the full video here
• LinkedIn
• Futre
• Kairos Academies

In this dual-episode podcast, Tom Vander Ark of Getting Smart and Ben Kornell of EdTech Insiders dive into the transformative year of 2025 in education and share bold predictions for 2026. They explore how AI-driven innovations, work-based learning, and personalized education models are reshaping teaching and learning. From the rise of AI-forward schools to the impact of generative AI on traditional classroom practices, Tom and Ben discuss key trends such as the shift to learner agency, creativity, and critical thinking. They also tackle pressing challenges, including the increasing automation of the workforce, the potential backlash against AI in K-12 education, and the growing importance of teacher training for AI integration. This episode is packed with insights, predictions, and actionable advice for educators, policymakers, and edtech leaders navigating the future of learning.

1. (00:00) The Rise of AI Automation and Its Impact on Education
2. (10:21) Work-Based Learning and Career Education
3. (15:23) AI-Forward Schools and New Learning Models
4. (24:59) Teacher Training and Professional Development
5. (29:09) Closing Thoughts and Looking Ahead

• Read the full blog here
• LinkedIn
• ASU + GSV Summit

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Nate McClennen is joined by Dr. Brent Maddin of the Next Education Workforce Initiative at ASU Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College and Dr. Rebecca Hutchinson, superintendent at Concord Community Schools in Michigan. Together, they explore the transformative potential of team-based teaching models that reimagine the traditional "one teacher, one classroom" approach. From improving teacher retention and fostering collaboration to enhancing student outcomes and creating personalized learning opportunities, this conversation dives into how innovative staffing models can reshape the future of education. Listen in to hear firsthand experiences from Concord's groundbreaking implementations and learn why now is the time to embrace team-based education.

• (00:00) Introduction and Context
• (07:18) The Next Education Workforce Initiative
• (14:33) Team-Based Staffing at Concord
• (22:07) Impact and Student Outcomes
• (36:50) Why This Time Is Different

• Watch the full video here
• Read the full blog here
• Rebecca Hutchinson LinkedIn
• Brent Maddin LinkedIn
• Next Education Workforce
• Concord Community Schools
• Unlocking the Potential of Team-Based Staffing

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Dr. Kenny Rodriguez, Superintendent of Grandview School District in Kansas City, shares how his district has embraced real-world learning and innovative pathways to drive student success. From his early work with Big Picture Learning in Tulsa to leading regional collaborations with neighboring districts, Dr. Rodriguez discusses the importance of breaking down barriers to provide shared opportunities for students. He highlights how Grandview integrates student passions into education through personalized learning pathways, partnerships, and hands-on experiences like Project Lead the Way. Tune in to hear how his leadership philosophy—focused on collaboration, creativity, and putting students first—has transformed education in his district and beyond.

• (00:00) Discovering Big Picture Learning in Tulsa
• (09:38) Building Pathways in Kansas City
• (14:18) Regional Collaboration Begins
• (19:52) Creating Shared Pathway Portfolios
• (23:59) Leadership Through Learning
• (28:00) Advice for Aspiring Superintendents

• Read the full blog here
• Watch the full video here
• Grandview School District
• X | Kenny Rodrigues