LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education

This week, Jamie and Jerri are joined by veteran education leaders Dr. Susan Enfield and Dr. Kristi Wilson to unpack their new book, On Fire, Under Fire, or Fired: Superintendents in the Pandemic. This book and this conversation shine a light on the emotional toll, public pressure, and deep commitment it takes to lead a school system today.

Susan and Kristi share the inspiration behind the book and highlight some of the most memorable, raw, and impactful stories from their interviews with superintendents, and explain why these stories need to be heard by more than just other school leaders. Together, they underscore the urgency of fostering understanding and empathy for those in the superintendent's seat and advocate for systemic support to sustain leadership longevity. The conversation is both eye-opening and affirming, giving listeners a rare look behind the scenes of district leadership and the passion that drives it.

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ABOUT OUR GUESTS

Dr. Susan Enfield is the former Superintendent of the Washoe County School District in Reno, Nevada. Prior to this, she served as Superintendent for Highline Public Schools in Burien, WA, for ten years. A former high school English, journalism, and ELL teacher, Susan served as Chief Academic Officer and then as Interim Superintendent for Seattle Public Schools before joining Highline in 2012. She was named the Superintendent of the Year by the National School Foundation Association in 2018 and was the 2022 Washington State Superintendent of the Year.

Dr. Kristi Wilson served as superintendent of the Buckeye Elementary School District in Buckeye, Arizona, for eleven years, facilitating the delivery of an outstanding education for approximately 6,000 students and nine campuses. Prior to her superintendency, Wilson had a robust educational career as an assistant superintendent, executive director, special education director, school administrator, teacher, and adjunct professor. Her passion and transformational leadership have helped design new schools focused on the lens of the learner and overall systematic change. Dr. Wilson is one of the nation's top thought leaders in public education.

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POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

Ready to shake up your classroom or leadership playbook? In this episode, we chat with dynamic educator duo Kristin and Joe Merrill (aka The Merrills) about engaging today's learners through meaningful experiences. Known for their practical insights and infectious enthusiasm, the Merrills dive into how they blend teaching strategies with the power of technology to boost student engagement and spark a love for learning.

Together, we explore how they stay grounded amidst constant change, why building trust with students is at the heart of everything they do, and how taking creative risks has helped them grow as educators. You’ll also hear about their favorite tools, classroom wins (and fails), and how they've cultivated a thriving learning community both online and in their schools. From infusing tech with purpose to amplifying student voice, they're sharing the real talk behind what works, what flops, and how they keep pushing boundaries without losing sight of what matters most!

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ABOUT OUR GUESTS

Kristin and Joe Merrill are classroom teachers, nationally recognized edtech leaders, and passionate advocates for student-centered learning. Known for their practical strategies and engaging style, they co-moderate the popular #FlipgridFever chat and regularly lead professional development for educators across the country. With nearly 30 years of combined teaching experience, the Merrills blend innovation with heart, helping students (and teachers) thrive through meaningful, tech-infused instruction.

Learn more and grab their free resources at themerrillsedu.com.

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POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

What does it look like when a seventh grader turns a life-altering moment into a mission? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Matt Giovanniello, CEO of Frenalytics, who used a family tragedy to spark a lifelong drive to serve others. Matt shares how witnessing his grandmother's recovery from a devastating stroke lit a fire that would eventually lead to Frenalytics.

Tune in as Matt opens up about the moment everything changed: his grandmother's massive stroke during open-heart surgery. At just 12 years old, he watched her fight to regain her memory and independence. Fast forward to today, and Matt is leading a team that's redefining personalized care, bridging the gap between clinicians, teachers, families, and patients with innovative, easy-to-use, and human-centered tech. If you've ever searched for your “why” or wondered how early experiences can shape your path, this episode is a must-listen!

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ABOUT OUR GUEST

Matt Giovanniello is the CEO and co-founder of Frenalytics, a patented cognitive therapy platform that personalizes the learning and recovery process for individuals with stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), dementia, autism, and Down syndrome.

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POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

This week, we welcome Rebecca Murray, voice coach, speaker, and fierce advocate for the power of self-expression, to the pod. Whether you're leading a classroom, presenting in a boardroom, or stepping onto a stage, Rebecca shares how owning your voice can unlock leadership, confidence, and connection.

Join Rebecca as she offers actionable strategies to overcome self-doubt, communicate with authenticity, and speak up with purpose, especially for educators and leaders ready to make an impact. Through personal stories and powerful insights, Rebecca reminds us that our voice isn't just something we have—it's something we use to lead, uplift, and create change.

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ABOUT OUR GUEST

Rebecca Murray is a voice coach, producer, and audio expert who helps professionals unlock their authentic voice and speak with confidence. Rebecca has partnered with organizations like NCCE, Women in Manufacturing, SHRM, and Boeing Employees’ Credit Union to help leaders amplify their impact through the power of voice.

Check out Rebecca's work at https://rebeccapmurray.com/
Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccapmurray/

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POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

How can school leaders harness the power of AI to fuel innovation, personalize learning, and support educators? Dyane Smokorowski and Rob Dickson, from Wichita Public Schools (WPS), are setting the pace. Join us as they unpack WPS's bold approach to AI integration: one that's focused not just on technology, but on people.

Dyane and Rob share how their district is using AI to create more meaningful, customized learning experiences for students while also providing educators with practical tools that enhance their work, not replace it. Together, they dive into the mindset shifts, professional learning, and strategic planning it takes to move from AI curiosity to sustainable implementation. From tackling common fears to celebrating quick wins, this conversation explores what it really takes to lead AI adoption in education and why WPS is positioning its educators and students to thrive in an AI-powered world.

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ABOUT OUR GUESTS

Dyane Smokorowski is a passionate educator, speaker, and edtech advocate dedicated to making learning an adventure. As the Coordinator of Digital Literacy for Wichita Public Schools, she designs meaningful learning experiences for students and educators alike. Dyane was named one of EdTech Focus on K–12's "30 K–12 IT Influencers to Follow in 2024" and received the Wichita Business Journal's 2023 Community Innovator Award. Her career has also been marked by honors such as Kansas Teacher of the Year (2013), Dolly Parton's Chasing Rainbows Award (2015), and induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame (2019).

Rob Dickson is the Chief Information Officer for Wichita Public Schools, where he leads transformative technology initiatives that expand digital access, personalize learning, and create secure, future-ready environments for 50,000 students. Under his leadership, the district launched Education Imagine Academy—now a Microsoft Showcase School—and a districtwide esports program in partnership with Wichita State University. Rob has been honored as the 2021 Kansas City Orbie CIO of the Year, a 2022 National CIO of the Year Finalist, and one of District Administration's 2024 Top 100 Education Influencers. He also actively consults with districts across the country, helping them shape strategic technology visions that drive real-world impact.

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POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

Technology should make teachers' lives easier, not more complicated. This week, we sit down with Arman Jaffer, the visionary behind Brisk Teaching. He shares how a simple idea grew into a powerful platform that helps teachers save time, keeps students engaged, and streamlines school operations.

Tune in as Arman takes us inside the journey of building Brisk Teaching—from the first spark of inspiration to the real-world impact it's having in classrooms today. Together, we'll explore how Brisk is transforming educational workflows with smart, intuitive solutions that empower educators and inspire students.

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ABOUT OUR GUEST

Arman Jaffer is the Founder of Brisk Teaching, where he’s leading the charge to revolutionize how educators engage with AI-powered tools. His passion for improving education is evident in Brisk’s mission to save teachers time, streamline workflows, and empower students, all while making a lasting impact on the classroom experience.

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POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

Think you know the role of the U.S. Department of Education? Think again. In this episode, Collin Earnst from the EdTech Leadership Collective challenges assumptions and sheds light on what the Department of Education really does. From funding and oversight to policy and support, Collin helps us break down the facts, bust common myths, and better understand how this federal agency impacts schools, educators, and students across the country.

We also examine the political debate surrounding the idea of eliminating the department altogether. Collin offers thoughtful analysis on where that conversation stems from, what's at stake, and how such a move could reshape the future of education. Whether you're a school leader, policymaker, or simply curious about the infrastructure behind public education, this episode offers an eye-opening look at the vital role federal support plays in our schools.

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ABOUT OUR GUEST

Collin Earnst is the founder of The Ed-tech Leadership Collective and has twenty years of experience in the ed-tech industry, spanning public, private, and PE-backed organizations.

Collin is a leader with extensive cross-functional experience. He has served as CEO and in C-level roles responsible for Revenue, Operations, and Human Resources. He has held leadership roles at growth-stage companies, including Lexia, LearnWell, and BookNook, and corporate leadership roles at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

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POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

This week, we're sitting down with Dr. Monica Burns, an edtech expert, author, and founder of ClassTechTips.com. With her signature energy and expertise, Monica shares practical strategies, must-know tools, and big-picture insights to help educators use technology in ways that truly support student learning.

Whether you're just starting your edtech journey or looking for fresh ideas to deepen integration, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways. From quick-win tech tips to thoughtful approaches that enhance engagement, Monica delivers inspiring ideas with a whole lot of heart.

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ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Monica Burns is a Curriculum and EdTech Consultant, Apple Distinguished Educator, and Founder of ClassTechTips.com. As a classroom teacher in New York City, Monica used digital tools to create an engaging, differentiated learning experience to meet the unique needs of her students. Monica started her blog ClassTechTips.com in 2012 to help make EdTech easier for fellow educators, and launched the Easy EdTech Podcast and her membership site the Easy EdTech Club to support educators who want to simplify and streamline technology integration.

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POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

Now more than ever, prioritizing health and wellness in K-12 education is essential. This week, we're joined by Dr. Julian Reed, a leading expert in kinesiology and the science of movement and learning. Dr. Reed shares his research on how physical activity enhances cognition, behavior, and overall well-being. He also offers practical, innovative strategies for integrating movement into the classroom—making learning more engaging and effective.

As the author of Moving to Learning: Creating Active Classrooms and the creator of Walkabouts—a program that embeds movement into PreK-5 curriculum—Dr. Reed has dedicated his career to exploring the connection between movement and academic success. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or just passionate about student wellness, this episode will inspire you to get moving!

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ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Julian Reed is a professor of health sciences and a nationally recognized authority in kinesiology, specializing in the relationship between movement and learning. Dr. Reed is the author of Moving to Learning: Creating Active Classroom and also the founder of Walkabouts.

Tune in to hear his insights and discover easy ways to integrate movement into lesson planning and daily life!

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POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠.

In this episode of the LinkedUp Podcast, we sit down with Dan Pfaff, Digital Learning Coordinator for Shelby County Public Schools in Kentucky, to explore how his district is redefining accountability and student success.

Shelby County has taken a bold, community-driven approach by developing a Benefits-Based Accountability model—one that prioritizes local needs over standardized metrics. A key element of this model is the Profile of a Graduate, shaped by the voices of students, families, and community members. Dan’s insights highlight the power of local accountability, community collaboration, and innovative learning models in shaping the future of education. This episode is a must-listen for educators, district leaders, and anyone passionate about creating meaningful, student-centered learning experiences.

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ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dan Pfaff is a dedicated educator and leader. With 20 years of teaching experience—from traditional math to AP and dual credit courses—he now serves as the Digital Learning Coordinator for Shelby County Public Schools, mentoring educators in using technology to enhance instruction and inclusivity.

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POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠classlink.com⁠.