Hello everyone, and welcome to The Jeff Bradbury Show—a podcast dedicated to helping you amplify your impact on the world around you.

If you're a creator, innovator, leader, or entrepreneur searching for the right tools, strategies, or inspiration, you're in the right place. Each week, we sit down with influential individuals who are shaping our world to uncover the stories and strategies behind their success—all centered around one powerful question: What does it truly take to make a lasting impact?

In this conversation, Dr. Alan Bekker, co-founder and CEO of eSelf, shares his journey from earning a dual degree in physics and computer science to becoming a leader in AI technology. He discusses his career evolution, his transition from corporate environments to the education sector, and the innovative solutions eSelf offers educational institutions. The conversation highlights the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship and the impact of AI in enhancing learning experiences through video assistance.

This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."

Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today!

Dr. Alan Bekker is the Co-founder and CEO of eSelf, an AI company transforming human-machine interaction with real-time, face-to-face video assistants. He holds a Ph.D. in Machine Learning and AI, with research across AI voice, NLP, and computer vision. Previously, he co-founded Voca.ai, a voice AI startup acquired by Snap in 2020, where he later led conversational AI productization. Today, his lifelike AI assistants are used in finance, real estate, education, and more.

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About eSelf.ai

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Jeff Bradbury (ISTE “20 to Watch” Award Winner and ISTE Certified Educator) is available for keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and live event broadcasting. With expertise in educational technology and professional development, Jeff brings engaging content and practical strategies to conferences and professional learning events.

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Welcome to The Jeff Bradbury Show, featuring conversations with the creators who are shaping the future of learning.

In this inspiring conversation, Drew Ann Long shares her journey as a mother of a child with special needs and the creation of Caroline's Cart, a shopping cart designed for individuals with disabilities. She discusses the challenges she faced in manufacturing, the importance of community support, and the impact of her advocacy on families. Drew emphasizes the need to own one's journey and the ripple effect of fighting for inclusion and accessibility.

They discuss the journey of building a brand that matters, the lessons learned from [Specific Challenge Guest Faced], and the strategies [Guest Name] used to create a lasting impact on the world of education.

This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."

Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today!

About our Guest: Drew Ann Long

Drew Ann Long is the inventor of Caroline’s Cart, a game-changing, patented, special-needs shopping cart designed to provide an inclusive and accessible shopping experience for individuals with special needs. Inspired by her daughter Caroline, who has special needs and could not use a traditional cart, Drew Ann took matters into her own hands—sketching her first idea on a napkin and eventually bringing the patented design to life. Today, Caroline’s Cart is in retailers across all 50 states and eight countries, used by families, caregivers, senior adults, and stores committed to inclusion, accessibility and dignity.

A former stay-at-home mom with no background in engineering or manufacturing, Drew Ann’s journey is one of remarkable grit and innovation. She navigated the complex world of product development, patents, brand building, and production —ultimately launching and leading a nationwide grassroots movement that challenged retailers to think differently about inclusion. Her story has been featured on Today, CNN, Inside Edition, and CBS News, and she has earned recognition from Walmart, Target, Michelle Obama, and advocacy groups across the U.S.

Now an inspirational speaker and founder of her nonprofit Caroline’s Cause, Drew Ann brings her story to the stage to empower and challenge audiences to lead with empathy, persevere through adversity, and prioritize inclusion in everyday life and business. Her authenticity, purpose-driven innovation, and ability to connect make her a sought-after voice in conversations about caregiving, special needs advocacy, and real-world impact.

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Book Jeff for your Next Event

Jeff Bradbury (ISTE “20 to Watch” Award Winner and ISTE Certified Educator) is available for keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and live event broadcasting. With expertise in educational technology and professional development, Jeff brings engaging content and practical strategies to conferences and professional learning events.

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Welcome to The Jeff Bradbury Show, featuring conversations with creators who are shaping the future of learning.

In this episode, Ralph Bianculli, founder and CEO of Emerald Ecovations, shares his journey in the eco-friendly industry. He discusses the environmental impact of traditional materials and the innovative solutions his company has developed. Ralph highlights the critical role of education in advancing sustainability, the challenges of the industry, and how farmers contribute to sourcing sustainable materials. He also shares success stories of converting large commercial properties to eco-friendly products and outlines his vision for a future where sustainable practices become the norm.

This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."

Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today!

Ralph Bianculli is the CEO and Founder of Emerald Ecovations. Established in 1997 with a vision to reduce waste and promote environmental consciousness, Emerald Ecovations has been at the forefront of the green movement.

With a passion for creating a positive impact on the environment, Ralph has dedicated his career to promoting sustainable practices within the business world. His commitment to sustainability is evident in the wide range of sustainable solutions Emerald Ecovations offers, including Tree-Free™ towel and tissue products, compostable tableware, and non-toxic cleaning supplies.

Through his work, Ralph inspires others to embrace sustainability and make conscious choices that benefit the planet. His vision and leadership continue to drive Emerald Ecovations towards a greener future, demonstrating that businesses can thrive while prioritizing environmental stewardship.

About Emerald Ecovations

We're on a mission to end deforestation and plastic pollution by creating tree-free, plastic-free and toxin-free paper products for your workspace. Since 1997, we've created 350+ eco-friendly products for businesses of all sizes. At Emerald Ecovations, our sustainable products include Tree-Free™ paper goods, plastics made without petroleum, disposables that are USDA Biopreferred, specialized packaging options, and chemical-free cleaning products. We provide food service and janitorial items for office buildings, cafeterias, hospitals, airlines, restaurants, venues, universities, and more. As leaders in sustainability, we help leaders understand their ESG Scope 3 goals and meet their CSRs by providing a Environmental Impact Report to quantify trees saved, water saved, carbon emissions, and more. By working with American farmers and manufacturers to transform traditionally wasted materials into high-quality disposables, eliminate local air pollution, increase farmers’ revenue, and create American jobs. These products are created from rapidly renewable materials like miscanthus, bamboo, bagasse (a byproduct of sugarcane), and plant starch.

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Book Jeff for your Next Event

Jeff Bradbury (ISTE “20 to Watch” Award Winner and ISTE Certified Educator) is available for keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and live event broadcasting. With expertise in educational technology and professional development, Jeff brings engaging content and practical strategies to conferences and professional learning events.

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Welcome to The Jeff Bradbury Show, featuring conversations with the creators shaping the future of learning.

In this episode, Dr. Lindsay Whorton discusses critical aspects of educational leadership, emphasizing the importance of investing in teacher development and the qualities that define effective leaders. She explores pathways to leadership, how to define success, and the external expectations placed on educational leaders. The conversation highlights the support provided to diverse school districts and the significance of building strong relationships within the educational community. Dr. Whorton shares success stories that illustrate how effective leadership transforms schools and communities.

This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."

Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today!

About our Guest: Dr. Lindsay Whorton

Dr. Lindsay Whorton is proud to be a founding member of The Holdsworth Center. She helped design the blueprint for the center’s programming and has served as president since 2019.

Under Lindsay’s leadership, Holdsworth has grown from serving seven public school districts through its initial offering – the Holdsworth Partnership – to serving more than 1,900 leaders in 89 public school districts across several programs, all designed to build a bench of stronger superintendents and principals for Texas public schools.

Lindsay’s story with Holdsworth began in 2015, when Charles Butt, Chairman of H-E-B, tapped her to work with an organizing board designing the center’s first programs. At the time, Lindsay was working as a consultant with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in Washington D.C. She officially joined The Holdsworth Center team shortly after its launch in January 2017.

In her role as managing director of district support, Lindsay helped create and evolve Holdsworth’s model for supporting partner districts to develop aspiring leaders, place them in leadership roles and support them as they progress along their leadership journey.

A native of Independence, Missouri, Lindsay earned bachelor’s degree in secondary education and English from Drake University in Iowa, where she served as a captain of the women’s basketball team. She holds a master’s degree in comparative social policy and a doctorate in social policy from Oxford University.

When she’s not working, Lindsay is reading, painting, spending time with family, building furniture and creating things with concrete.

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Subscribe to This Podcast

Check Out Additional TeacherCast Programming

Book Jeff for your Next Event

Jeff Bradbury (ISTE “20 to Watch” Award Winner and ISTE Certified Educator) is available for keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and live event broadcasting. With expertise in educational technology and professional development, Jeff brings engaging content and practical strategies to conferences and professional learning events.

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Welcome to The Jeff Bradbury Show, featuring conversations with the creators who are shaping the future of learning.

In this conversation, Adrian Martinca shares his journey from Slovakia to becoming a technology advocate dedicated to empowering children. He explores the digital divide's challenges and emphasizes supporting children's dreams amid rapid technological advancements, especially AI. Adrian stresses the importance of sustainable technology solutions in education and how community support nurtures children's aspirations. He introduces the concept of AI as an "alien immigrant" and advocates for a collective effort to ensure technology serves humanity rather than exploiting it, ultimately supporting future generations' dreams.

This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."

Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today!

About our Guest: Adrian Martinca

Adrian Martinca is the founder of the Open Doors Movement and co-founder of Kids Dreams Matter, uniting the world around one North Star: children’s dreams must guide how we open doors to the future of AI and technology. Through his nonprofit Technology for the Future, he has delivered over 20,000 laptops to kids in need and impacted more than 100,000 children worldwide. Adrian now leads a global effort to protect children’s mental health, reframe Big Tech, and ensure AI serves humanity instead of exploiting it.

About The Open Doors Movement

A global movement uniting families, schools, and communities to ensure children’s dreams guide how we open doors to the future. Joining means you stand with us — as a parent, teacher, or supporter — to protect the freedom of children to imagine, dream, and lead us into the future.

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Follow on Social Media

Subscribe to This Podcast

Check Out Additional TeacherCast Programming

Book Jeff for your Next Event

Jeff Bradbury (ISTE “20 to Watch” Award Winner and ISTE Certified Educator) is available for keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and live event broadcasting. With expertise in educational technology and professional development, Jeff brings engaging content and practical strategies to conferences and professional learning events.

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Welcome to The Jeff Bradbury Show, featuring conversations with creators who are shaping the future of learning.

In this engaging conversation, Monica Marquez shares her journey from corporate executive to entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of finding passion and embracing an entrepreneurial mindset. She explores AI fluency in today's workplace, the challenges of adapting to emerging technologies, and the value of self-reflection for personal and professional growth. Monica also discusses her work with Flipwork, which helps organizations improve AI adoption, and offers insights from her podcasting experience.

This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."

Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.

Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.

Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today!

Monica highlights how creativity and autonomy fuel entrepreneurial success.

Identifying your unique "zone of genius" is essential for peak performance.

AI literacy has become a fundamental workplace skill.

Forward-thinking organizations leverage emerging technologies to spark innovation.

Deep self-reflection reveals authentic passions and career directions.

Corporate professionals can benefit from applying entrepreneurial thinking.

Organizational resistance to AI adoption creates competitive disadvantages.

Effective AI implementation requires experimentation and iterative learning.

Podcasting serves as a powerful knowledge-sharing and networking platform.

True success is measured by outcomes, not just effort expended.

00:00 Introduction to Monica Marquez and Her Journey

02:14 The Leap into Entrepreneurship

05:15 Identifying Your Passion and Zone of Genius

09:15 The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Always an Entrepreneur

12:49 Navigating Corporate vs. Entrepreneurial Environments

17:34 Embracing Emerging Technologies and AI

22:23 The Future of Education and AI Fluency

23:20 Understanding AI's Role in Work

25:49 Identifying Pain Points in AI Adoption

28:53 Trial and Error in AI Integration

30:40 The Evolution of AI Usage

34:29 Building AI Fluency at Flipwork

36:22 Reframing Success with AI

37:55 The Journey of Podcasting

43:45 Embracing AI Despite Fear

46:25 Teachable Moments in Career Choices

About our Guest: Monica Marquez

Monica Marquez is a workplace AI strategist, leadership, learning, and inclusion expert, and serial entrepreneur. She is the founder of FlipWork, Inc., the only enterprise-wide AI workforce transformation system that ensures Fortune 500 companies adapt quickly to disruptive change. FlipWork helps employees at every level adopt AI successfully by transforming how people see, think, and work so they can keep pace with rapid workplace change. She also publishes ¡Ay Ay Ay, AI!, a weekly newsletter that gives leaders five minutes of clear, actionable guidance on thriving in the age of AI.

Monica brings more than 20 years of executive experience spanning talent, learning, and inclusion at Google, EY, Bank of America, and Goldman Sachs. At Goldman Sachs, she pioneered the Returnship and New Directions programs, setting the industry benchmark for helping experienced professionals reenter the workforce. At Google, she co-founded the Product Inclusion Council to shape more inclusive product design. She is also the co-founder of Beyond Barriers and has hosted more than 300 podcast episodes spotlighting transformative leadership journeys.

Recognized among Entrepreneur Magazine’s 100 Women of Influence and ALPFA’s Most Powerful Latinas in 2024, Monica continues to champion equity, innovation, and leadership in every arena.

About FlipWork.Inc.

FlipWork is the People OS that helps teams turn AI investments into measurable ROI in 90 days. We redesign workflows, enable managers, and make adoption stick.

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Website: https://flipwork.ai

Contact Me Today: https://www.teachercast.net/contact

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Check Out Additional TeacherCast Programming

Digital Learning Today: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-learning-today/id546631310

Ask the Tech Coach: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-the-tech-coach/id1067586243

The Jeff Bradbury Show https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828

Book Jeff for your Next Event

Jeff Bradbury (ISTE “20 to Watch” Award Winner and ISTE Certified Educator) is available for keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and live event broadcasting. With expertise in educational technology and professional development, Jeff brings engaging content and practical strategies to conferences and professional learning events.

Visit Jeff’s Website: https://jeffreybradbury.com

Contact Jeff Directly: https://jeffreybradbury.com/contact/

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In this episode of The Jeff Bradbury Show, Josh Dorfman shares his journey as an entrepreneur dedicated to climate change and sustainability. He explains how media can raise awareness about environmental issues, explores innovations in sustainable racing, and discusses the importance of circular economies. Josh also examines AI's role in improving energy efficiency and transforming educational systems. The conversation concludes with insights into his entrepreneurial ventures creating sustainable building materials.

This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."

Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.

Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.

Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today!

Josh has spent 20 years focusing on climate change and sustainability.

Supercool aims to highlight positive climate solutions that are often underrepresented in media.

Formula One racing has transformed to become more sustainable and engaging for audiences.

The circular economy emphasizes recycling and reusing materials to reduce waste.

AI can significantly reduce energy consumption and carbon footprints in buildings.

Innovative companies are finding ways to recycle rare earth magnets critical for technology.

Sustainable practices can be integrated into school systems to educate future generations.

Entrepreneurship in sustainability can lead to significant advancements in building materials.

Media plays a vital role in shaping public perception and awareness of climate issues.

Collaboration between technology and sustainability can lead to innovative solutions.

00:00 Introduction to Josh Dorfman and His Journey

02:58 The Role of Media in Climate Awareness

05:41 Innovations in Electric Racing and Sustainability

08:48 Circular Economy and Recycling Technologies

11:21 Artificial Intelligence in Environmental Solutions

14:24 AI's Impact on Education and School Systems

17:09 Entrepreneurial Ventures in Sustainability

19:56 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions

Josh Dorfman is a climate entrepreneur, author, and media personality. He is the CEO and host of Supercool, a media company covering real-world climate solutions that cut carbon, increase profits, and enhance modern life. Josh was previously the co-founder and CEO of Plantd, a carbon-negative building materials manufacturer, which was named to Fast Company’s list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies in 2024. He has founded two modern design sustainable furniture companies, directed Vine.com, an Amazon e-commerce business specializing in natural and organic products, and served as the CEO of The Collider, the nation’s first innovation center for climate resilience and adaptation. Additionally, Josh was previously known as The Lazy Environmentalist, a media brand he developed into an award-winning television series on Sundance Channel, a daily radio show on SiriusXM, and two popular books.

His work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Forbes, TechCrunch, Fast Company, and Reuters. Josh has also made regular appearances on national television and radio programs, including Morning Joe, Fox & Friends, and NPR’s All Things Considered, and is the only guest to ever ride a bike onto The Martha Stewart Show.

Links of Interest

Website: https://getsuper.cool/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@getsupercool/videos

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getsupercool

Contact Me Today: https://www.teachercast.net/contact

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Subscribe to This Podcast

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7btbAI5CjqBgLhitJLMM8y?si=7d151287eb574845

Check Out Additional TeacherCast Programming

Digital Learning Today: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-learning-today/id546631310

Ask the Tech Coach: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-the-tech-coach/id1067586243

The Jeff Bradbury Show https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828

Book Jeff for your Next Event

Jeff Bradbury (ISTE “20 to Watch” Award Winner and ISTE Certified Educator) is available for keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and live event broadcasting. With expertise in educational technology and professional development, Jeff brings engaging content and practical strategies to conferences and professional learning events.

Visit Jeff’s Website: https://jeffreybradbury.com

Contact Jeff Directly: https://jeffreybradbury.com/contact/

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In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Dr. Jennifer Berry, CEO of SmartLab, discusses the importance of STEM education and the concept of STEM identity, which emphasizes students' self-belief and belonging in the STEM fields. She shares her journey into education, the role of educators in fostering a productive learning environment, and the necessity of community involvement in creating sustainable STEM ecosystems. Dr. Berry highlights the significance of hands-on, project-based learning and the need for continuous support and training for educators to ensure long-term success in STEM education.

This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."

Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.

Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.

Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today!

Fostering STEM Identity: Building students' confidence and sense of belonging in STEM disciplines creates a foundation for lifelong learning.

Creating Supportive Environments: The physical space and skilled facilitators together create the optimal conditions for STEM discovery and growth.

Engaging the Community: Sustainable STEM programs thrive when businesses, families, and schools collaborate to support student learning.

Breaking Classroom Boundaries: Effective STEM education connects classroom learning with real-world applications and community resources.

Prioritizing Hands-On Learning: Project-based approaches allow students to physically engage with concepts, leading to deeper understanding.

Supporting Educator Growth: Continuous professional development ensures teachers can confidently guide students through evolving STEM challenges.

Building Integrated Systems: Successful STEM education harmonizes physical environment, curriculum design, and community partnerships.

Including Parents as Partners: Family involvement reinforces STEM learning and helps students see its relevance in everyday life.

Preparing Future-Ready Students: Today's STEM education develops the critical thinking and adaptability needed for tomorrow's careers.

Harnessing the Power of Narrative: Stories about STEM applications and innovations help students envision their own potential contributions.

00:00 Introduction to SmartLab and Dr. Jennifer Berry

01:57 The Journey to SmartLab: Dr. Berry’s Background

05:38 Understanding STEM Identity and Its Importance

09:29 The Role of Educators in STEM Learning

13:34 Creating a Sustainable STEM Ecosystem

18:42 Community Involvement in STEM Education

21:51 The Future of STEM in Education

26:37 Observing Student Growth in SmartLab

32:24 Expanding STEM Opportunities Beyond Elementary School

36:51 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Dr. Jennifer Berry is the Chief Executive Officer for SmartLab. She has an extensive track record leading innovation and growth in multiple top K-12 education businesses, and will further CLS’s mission to transform the lives of future generations through innovative, career-focused STEM education solutions. Dr. Berry has spent the last 15+ years in senior leadership positions for prominent K-12 organizations including Presence, After-School All-Stars, Quantum Learning, and Kaplan. Dr. Berry holds a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California (USC), and her commitment to education is inspired by her daughter and a love of lifelong learning. She is a resident of San Diego, California.

A student's STEM identity is their self-belief that they belong in STEM, can master rigorous challenges, and can make a meaningful impact. It's not a fixed trait—it's a mindset that develops through repeated moments of success, challenge, and recognition. At SmartLab, we treat STEM identity as a critical outcome of learning, not just an added benefit.

About SmartLab

SmartLab is a career-connected STEM ecosystem that prepares today’s students for tomorrow’s challenges by building a strong STEM identity—one that includes both technical skill and a mindset that prepares students for real careers, whether or not they eventually choose STEM fields. Each hands-on PBL+STEM solution connects grade-appropriate applications to one of eight industry pathways, helping students solve meaningful problems while developing real-world skills. SmartLab programs include dedicated classroom setups or flexible modular systems, along with standards-aligned curriculum, teacher training, and ongoing technical and curricular support. Students leave believing: I belong here. I can do this. I add value. I'm future-ready. This mindset takes shape through active, student-centered learning cycles—each ah-HA! moment steadily converting raw curiosity into resilient, purposeful problem solving.

Links of Interest

Website: https://www.smartlablearning.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/creative-learning-systems/

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Subscribe to This Podcast

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828

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Check Out Additional TeacherCast Programming

Digital Learning Today: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-learning-today/id546631310

Ask the Tech Coach: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-the-tech-coach/id1067586243

The Jeff Bradbury Show https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828

Book Jeff for your Next Event

Jeff Bradbury (ISTE “20 to Watch” Award Winner and ISTE Certified Educator) is available for keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and live event broadcasting. With expertise in educational technology and professional development, Jeff brings engaging content and practical strategies to conferences and professional learning events.

Visit Jeff’s Website: https://jeffreybradbury.com

Contact Jeff Directly: https://jeffreybradbury.com/contact/

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In this episode of The Jeff Bradbury Show, Kate Assaraf, founder and CEO of Dip, shares her journey creating a sustainable haircare brand that challenges industry norms. She discusses her motivations for starting the business, the importance of customer experience, and the challenges of entrepreneurship as a mompreneur. Kate highlights the value of support systems, lessons learned throughout her journey, and the importance of integrity and legacy in business.

This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."

Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.

Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.

Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today!

Dip, focuses on sustainability and accessibility.

Kate's journey began with personal frustration over plastic waste.

Building a successful brand requires a solid support system at home.

Entrepreneurship demands sacrifices, particularly sleep.

Kate learned to trust her instincts and believe in herself.

She advises aspiring entrepreneurs to stay hands-on with their customers.

Treating customers with respect and honesty is essential.

Legacy in business stems from integrity and authentic connections.

Shop DIP: www.dipalready.com

Kate Assaraf is the founder and CEO of DIP, a sustainable hair care brand that defies traditional industry norms. After losing her first company, Kate rebuilt from the ground up—bootstrapping DIP into a 7-figure business without selling on Amazon, using paid influencers, or compromising her values. A 2024 Forbes contributor and NJ’s Mompreneur of the Year, Kate is passionate about proving that you don’t need to sell out to succeed—and that true legacy is built on integrity.

Links of Interest

Website: www.dipalready.com

Kate’s Instagram: @kateassaraf

Instagram: @dipalready

TikTok: @dipalready

Contact Me Today: https://www.teachercast.net/contact

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Subscribe to This Podcast

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7btbAI5CjqBgLhitJLMM8y?si=7d151287eb574845

Check Out Additional TeacherCast Programming

Digital Learning Today: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-learning-today/id546631310

Ask the Tech Coach: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-the-tech-coach/id1067586243

The Jeff Bradbury Show https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-bradbury-show/id519685828

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In this episode of the Jeff Bradbury Show, Peter Samuelson, a renowned film producer and philanthropist, shares his inspiring journey from the entertainment industry to founding multiple impactful nonprofits. The conversation delves into the critical importance of mentorship, education, and the unique challenges young adults face today. Peter introduces his new book, 'Finding Happy,' which offers practical guidance for young people navigating life's complexities. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the necessity of strong support systems, the profound influence of personal experiences, and the wisdom of always having a contingency plan in life.

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Conversation Takeaways

Peter Samuelson highlights the transformative power of mentorship in shaping lives.

Education serves as a vital tool for breaking cycles of poverty.

Young adults navigate unique challenges in today's polarized society.

Having a backup plan is essential for career aspirations.

Personal experiences offer valuable lessons that can benefit others.

Philanthropy creates far-reaching positive changes throughout communities.

The book "Finding Happy" provides practical guidance for young adults.

Successfully navigating life's challenges depends on support from mentors and peers.

Reflection points throughout the book encourage readers to take actionable steps.

Building strong connections and networks is fundamental to success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Show and Guest

02:14 Peter Samuelson's Journey and Mentorship

04:55 The Impact of Education and Philanthropy

11:03 Navigating Challenges in Young Adulthood

16:59 Reflections on Writing and Life Lessons

18:25 The Start of a Film Career

21:36 Transitioning from Film to Philanthropy

24:41 Creating Solutions for the Homeless

31:54 Advice for the Next Generation

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TeacherCast | @TeacherCast

Peter Samuelson is a serial pro-social entrepreneur, film producer, and advocate. He co-founded the Starlight Children’s Foundation with Steven Spielberg, launched Starbright World, the first avatar-based social network for seriously ill teens, and founded First Star, which supports foster youth through high school academies on college campuses. As CEO of PhilmCo Media, he produces films that use empathy to drive social change. He also created EDAR (Everyone Deserves a Roof), providing mobile shelters for the homeless, and ASPIRE, a media training program for undergraduates. A Cambridge graduate and former board member of Participant Media, Samuelson has produced 27 films, including Revenge of the Nerds and Arlington Road. He holds a U.S. patent for a mobile homeless shelter and continues to champion causes that support at-risk populations. Learn more at www.samuelson.la.

Links of Interest

Website: https://www.samuelson.la/

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/petergsamuelson

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/petergsamuelson/

HuffPost: https://www.huffpost.com/author/peter-samuelson

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Host: Jeff Bradbury @TeacherCast | @JeffBradbury

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