Lessons Learned

By BetterLessonEducation

Lessons Learned episodes

August 07, 2025Aligning K-12 Education with the Future of Work ft. Chike Aguh | Lessons Learned | Ep 10
How do we prepare students for jobs that don't exist yet?
“What I'm hopeful for is that always—no matter how challenging the circumstance—there is someone who is teaching and there are students who are learning.” -Chike Aguh
In this episode of Lessons Learned, host Matt tackles this question with Chike Aguh, Senior Advisor of The Project on Workforce at Harvard. As a former Chief Innovation Officer at the U.S. Department of Labor and nationally recognized education leader, Chike has seen firsthand what it takes to align K–12 learning with the demands of today’s economy.
From apprenticeships and technical education to AI and emerging technologies, he makes the case for a future-ready system that prepares students for both opportunity and disruption.
Together, we explore key topics such as:
Why work-based learning and CTE are critical to building economic mobility
How AI and emerging tech will reshape the future of learning and work
What it means to lead with trust, shared purpose, and empowered execution
How states like Ohio and Louisiana are building effective education–workforce pipelines
What the U.S. can learn from global models like Switzerland’s apprenticeship system
Connect with our guest:
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/chike-aguh/
Website: https://pw.hks.harvard.edu/
Ways to tune in:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313
53 min
July 31, 2025Rethinking Academic Pathways to Drive Real-World Readiness ft. Dr. TJ Vari | Lessons Learned | Ep 9
How can we align K–12 pathways with real economic opportunity?
“The definition of leadership is influence. The challenge of leadership is conflict. The result of leadership is change. And when there's a lot of change, we're gonna experience a lot of conflict, and that's going to require stronger leadership.” -Dr. TJ Vari
In this episode of Lessons Learned, host Matt sits down with Dr. TJ Vari, Senior Director of Product Strategy at MaiaLearning, to explore how schools can design college and career pathways that truly prepare students for life after graduation—starting as early as kindergarten.
Drawing on his experience as a teacher, principal, superintendent, and now product strategist, Dr. Vari shares how early career awareness, work-based learning, and tighter alignment with local industry can drive more meaningful outcomes for students. From simplifying graduation requirements to building intentional post-secondary plans, he outlines a vision for pathways that are both rigorous and relevant.
Together, we explore key topics such as:
Why reducing the number of academic pathways can increase clarity and impact
What career exploration looks like at the elementary, middle, and high school levels
How a “portrait of a graduate” can guide school and district-wide decision-making
The role of industry partnerships in creating high-value learning experiences
How to use data to align educational offerings with workforce needs
Whether you’re a district administrator, counselor, or CTE leader, this episode offers practical insights for designing systems that support student success—both in the classroom and beyond.
Connect with our guest:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-t-j-vari/
Website: https://www.maialearning.com/
Ways to tune in:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313
41 min
July 24, 2025Designing and Sustaining Relevant Math Instruction for Every Student ft. Dan Meyer | Lessons Learned | Ep 8
How can we make math instruction more engaging and relevant for every student?
“Kids need fewer commercials for math's power in their jobs later and more actual, tangible experiences of math's power now in their education.” -Dan Meyer
In this episode of Lessons Learned, Season 2, host Matt is joined by Dan Meyer, former high school math teacher and current VP of User Growth at Amplify, widely known for his groundbreaking work with Desmos.

Dan shares his personal journey from teaching ninth grade to helping transform math instruction at scale. With a deep passion for student-centered learning, he unpacks the systems approach required to make math instruction more meaningful, experiential, and empowering.
Together, we explore key topics such as:
Why building subject relevance relies on experiential learning and authentic connection
The most exciting uses—and limitations—of generative AI for improving teaching and learning
How even the most “mathematically challenged” instructional leaders can support educators
The importance of sustained, job-embedded PD in rolling out high-quality curriculum
Whether you're a classroom teacher, curriculum leader, or innovator in education, this episode offers fresh perspectives and actionable strategies for making math more connected to students’ lives and futures.

Connect with our guest:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-meyer-02922a109/
Website: http://www.amplify.com
Ways to tune in:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313
38 min
July 17, 2025Strategic Scheduling - Optimizing Resources for Postsecondary Preparation ft. Steven Gering | Ep 7
What if K-12 school districts saw scheduling as a strategy for alignment rather than a task to be done?
“We really under-invest in training future school leaders on how to invest this multi-million dollar budget... how to get more students college and career ready—and how to run it effectively and efficiently.” -Dr. Steven Gering
In this episode of Lessons Learned, host Matt sits down with Dr. Steven Gering, Director of School Success, to explore how schools can better prepare students for life beyond graduation.

Drawing from decades of experience as a teacher, principal, and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Gering shares his personal journey and the critical lessons he’s learned about designing systems that support all learners. From de-stigmatizing CTE to improving scheduling and guidance structures, he offers a candid look at the structural changes that can make readiness real for every student.

Together, we explore key topics such as:
Why strategic scheduling is the key to unlocking more efficient budgeting & resource allocation
How narrowing course offerings can promote rigor and equity across schools
Why college and career readiness must be reframed as a unified goal, not a binary choice
How successful CTE programs can unlock student potential and workforce opportunity
Connect with our guest:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-gering-3467bb24a/
BetterLesson Website: https://betterlesson.com/
Ways to tune in:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313
42 min
May 22, 2025Compilation: 5 Bold Ideas for K-12 Career Readiness | Lessons Learned | Ep 6
What does building ‘life-ready’ students really look like?
In this special compilation episode of Lessons Learned, we highlight five powerful insights from the visionary education leaders featured in Season 2. From district superintendents to CTE directors, these voices share a collective optimism about the future of public education.
Across their diverse experiences, a shared message emerges: real progress requires courageous leadership, deep community engagement, and a relentless focus on what matters most: students and teachers.
In this episode, we explore key themes including:
The value of ‘leaning in’ during times of uncertainty—embracing new technologies and mindsets
How CTE, workforce partnerships, and career exploration deliver on the promise of personalized learning
The role of professional learning in realigning systems around a bold vision
How districts can shape pathways that reflect both student interests and real-world opportunities
Whether you're a school leader, teacher, or policymaker, this episode offers a high-impact, wide-angle view of what's possible when we align purpose, practice, and community.
Ways to tune in:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313
26 min
May 15, 2025Celebrating Workforce Pathways Through CTE Innovation ft. Mac Beaton | Lessons Learned | Ep 5
How can we rethink workforce partnerships for sustainability and impact?
“Every parent out there wants a better life for their child and unfortunately, historically, we've always thought that pathway was through a four-year degree. That's just the way we grew up. But the world has changed. Business has changed. When you look at the number of jobs that are out there that require a four-year degree, that has changed.
We've put a lot of effort into changing the narrative about what people thought about career and technical education.” - Mac Beaton
In this episode of Lessons Learned, Season 2, host Matt is joined by Mac Beaton, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) for Henrico County Public Schools in Virginia, for an inspiring discussion on how intentional academic pathways and CTE can reshape student mindsets around college and career readiness.

Mac shares his personal journey from apprentice electrician to CTE leader, revealing how hands-on learning and strategic workforce partnerships have been central to his approach. The episode highlights innovative programs like converting 48,000 square feet of mall space into an adult education and training center, and the groundbreaking CTE Letter of Intent Signing Day, which honors students entering the workforce after graduation.

Together, we explore key topics such as:
The power of experiential learning in preparing students for real-world success
How modern CTE programs are challenging outdated narratives and building student confidence
How to build valuable, long-lasting relationships with workforce partners
How schools can build intentional student pathways that guide students in making informed decisions about their future
Connect with our guest:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mac-beaton-82006733/
Website: https://www.henricoschools.us/
Ways to tune in:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313
42 min
May 08, 2025Building Career Pathways & Support Systems ft. Iberia Parish Leaders | Lessons Learned | Ep 4
How can districts evolve to support every educator and every student?
“Really looking at your programs—which ones are making the biggest impact—and there's no debate. The biggest impact you can have on student achievement is teacher efficacy.” -Brett Ferguson
In this episode of Lessons Learned, our host Matt is joined by members of Iberia Parish’s team, Brett Ferguson, Kirsten Dutile, and Kyla Aucoin, for a powerful conversation on building sustainable systems of support for both teachers and students.
Drawing on their diverse journeys into education, the team shares how Iberia Parish is redefining professional development, prioritizing tailored support for educators at all stages of their careers, and leveraging strategic partnerships like the one with BetterLesson to create lasting impact.
Together, we explore key topics such as:
The value of differentiated support and 1:1 coaching for new and veteran teachers
How to create and sustain meaningful career pathways for students beyond the traditional four-year college track
Why evolving educational systems must meet diverse student needs and community expectations
The role of accountability in educational investments and the strategic use of resources
How intentional partnerships elevate both educator growth and student outcomes
“Be a lead learner. Never stop learning. You know, to be a good teacher in the classroom, you have to continue learning yourself.” -Kirsten Dutile
“I think as an educator, we always teach our students to believe in themselves. Teachers need to believe in themselves too.” -Kyla Aucoin
Connect with our guests:
Kirsten’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirsten-dutile-04292b27a/
Kyla’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyla-aucoin-77137b333/
Website: https://iberia.k12.la.us/
Ways to tune in:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313
33 min
May 01, 2025Building Future-Ready Pathways Through CTE & AI ft. Dr. Patrick Ward | Lessons Learned | Ep 3
What role do schools, families, and businesses play in building career-ready learners?
“The single biggest unifying conversation we've had is about future-readiness. When you talk about the current environment we're in, right now is the time to be asking how the school and all the systems align to assure that every student that walks across the stage is ready for whatever they choose next.” -Patrick Ward
In this episode of Lessons Learned, Matt is joined by Superintendent Patrick Ward of Willoughby-Eastlake City Schools in Ohio to explore what it means to build a future-ready education system—from the classroom to the community.
Patrick shares his powerful journey from a second-grade student with a dream to teach to leading a district focused on innovation. This episode dives deep into how school systems can ignite early interest in careers, build flexible pathways for all learners, and thoughtfully integrate emerging technologies like AI to support student success.
Together, we explore key topics such as:
How our portrait of a graduate has changed—and what that means for high schools
How districts can co-design student pathways with families, educators, and local businesses
The role of AI in creating adaptive, personalized learning experiences
What it takes to lead with empathy, community insight, and a vision for the future
Connect with our guest:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-ward-ph-d-4817052b/
Website: https://www.weschools.org/
Ways to tune in:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313
35 min
April 24, 2025Bridging Policy and Practice in Ohio Schools ft. Craig Burford | Lessons Learned | Ep 2
How do Educational Service Centers (ESCs) help turn policy into practice in Ohio’s schools?
“How do you reverse engineer what the future could look like into the type of profession that interests you? That could provide you with the income and the quality of life that you need to be able to do [the things you love]? What's the education you need to get there?
And [we’re] finding that in all instances, it doesn't take a four year degree. Trying to force everybody into that—the square peg into a round hole—just doesn't work.” -Craig Burford
In this episode of Lessons Learned, Matt is joined by Craig Burford, Executive Director of the Ohio ESC Association (OESCA), to discuss the role Educational Service Centers (ESCs) play in shaping student success across the state.
With over 25 years of experience in the field, Craig shares how ESCs serve as critical connectors—bridging state legislation with on-the-ground implementation in school districts. The conversation dives into Ohio’s strategic focus on high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) and career and technical education (CTE), emphasizing how ESCs support schools in delivering personalized, future-ready learning experiences.
Throughout the episode, we explore key topics like:
How ESCs provide essential support to districts by leveraging public-private partnerships and shared expertise
The evolving role of ESCs in aligning student pathways with workforce and postsecondary demands
Why individualized learning journeys are central to Ohio’s vision for education
The practical impact of HQIM and CTE initiatives at the local level
How state-wide efforts are grounded in community context and educator collaboration
Whether you’re a policymaker, district leader, or educator, this episode highlights actionable strategies and insights for building responsive, student-centered systems that prepare learners for life after high school.
Connect with our guest:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-e-burford-7b32432/
Website: https://www.oesca.org/home
Ways to tune in:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313
38 min
April 17, 2025Transforming Education for Career Readiness ft Jennifer Kushell | Lessons Learned | Ep 1
How can we leverage student agency to build more invested, more prepared graduates?
“We need to give kids context to understand that if they’re going to think about their life beyond (and their goals beyond) school, they need to understand where they fit in [and how education prepares them for it].” -Jen Kushell
In this episode of Lessons Learned, our host Matt kicks off Season 2 with Jennifer Kushell, CEO and founder of Exploring Your Potential—a career readiness program that helps students connect their interests to future planning.
Throughout our conversation, we explore key topics such as:
How career conversations build engagement and academic relevance that help students persist in and beyond K-12
The gaps in many CTE programs between what’s offered, what’s requested, and what’s needed [by workforce]
The importance of introducing college and career readiness (CCR) in early grades, to set the foundation for high school pathways and engagement
The professional learning support needed to get educators comfortable incorporating career conversations within their classrooms
Whether you're an educator, district leader, or involved in career development, this episode offers actionable strategies for building sustainable, student-centered CTE systems that meet the needs of both students and employers.
Connect with our guest:
Jennifer’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkushell/
EYP Ventures Website: http://exploringyourpotential.com/
The Disengagement Gap Brookings Report: https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/REPORT_The-Disengagement-Gap_FINAL.pdf
Ways to tune in:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987
Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313
32 min

About Lessons Learned

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Lessons Learned is a podcast by BetterLesson that takes a deep dive into the world of education through the eyes of K-12 district, state, and education leaders. Each episode focuses in on the real,…

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Lessons Learned

Lessons Learned episodes

About Lessons Learned