Trending In Ed with Mike Palmer

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Trending In Ed with Mike Palmer episodes

June 26, 2025Empowering Teachers as Climate Leaders with Margaret Wang-Aghania from Subsc
On this episode of Trending in Education, Mike Palmer is joined by Margaret Wang-Aghania, co-founder and executive director of Subject to Climate, to discuss the integration of climate education into K-12 schooling. We explore how Subject to Climate empowers educators to teach about climate change, action, and justice across all grade levels and subjects.
Key Takeaways:
Margaret shares her origin story as a high school social studies teacher and how her experiences led to the founding of Subject to Climate.

We learn about Subject to Climate's mission to make climate education "easy and effective" for K-12 teachers by providing vetted, standards-aligned resources and training.

The conversation highlights the interdisciplinary nature of climate change, emphasizing that it's not just a science issue, but also involves social studies, English language arts, and more.

We dive into the "gorillas in the room" – AI and the culture wars – discussing how climate literacy can be embedded within AI literacy initiatives in schools.

Margaret provides a fantastic example of an English language arts lesson plan where students analyze poetry about climate change and even draft their school's generative AI policy.

We explore the role of policy in system-wide change, citing examples like Maine's legislation for professional development funds for climate education.

The discussion touches on foundational components of climate education, including systems thinking and problem-based learning, drawing on Christina Kwauk's work on skills for green jobs, green life skills, and transformative capacities.

We address the challenge of "doom scrolling" and climate anxiety, emphasizing the importance of climate action and collective effort to foster hope and agency in students.

Margaret shares how Subject to Climate's partners page and their news articles from The Juice (with a "Climate Solutions" filter) can help individuals connect with the broader climate education movement and find hopeful stories.

Looking ahead, Margaret discusses how Subject to Climate is adapting to the increasing use of AI tools by teachers to ensure environmental concepts are still embedded in the learning process.
Why You Should Listen:
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of education and our planet. Margaret Wang-Aghania provides inspiring insights into how we can empower the next generation to understand and address climate change. We discuss practical strategies for integrating climate education into existing curricula, leveraging emerging technologies like AI responsibly, and fostering hope and agency in students. If you believe in the transformative power of education to solve complex global challenges, this conversation will resonate deeply.
Don't miss this engaging discussion! Subscribe to Trending in Education wherever you get your podcasts.
34 min
June 23, 2025Quantum Insights and the Future of Deep Tech with Charles Beyrouthy, Managing Partner at Forma Prime
In this episode of Trending in Education, Mike Palmer hosts Charles Beyrouthy, Managing Partner at Forma Prime, a venture capital firm, to explore the exciting intersection of deep technology and the future of education. We dive into the profound shifts happening in our world, from the cutting-edge advancements in quantum computing, new sensor technologies, and cybersecurity, as well as the impact of generative AI on all of this.
Key Takeaways:
Charles Beyrouthy's Journey: Charles shares his fascinating career path, from studying chemical engineering and biochemistry at UMass Amherst to accidentally falling into chemical engineering, working in microfluidics research, and eventually transitioning into oil and natural gas consulting before founding a lab software startup called LabCloud.

The Boston Biotech Ecosystem: We discuss Boston's rise as a biotech hub, examining how VC firms like Flagship and Polaris provided not just funding but also operational support, placing executives and consultants to bridge the gap between IP-centric research and commercialization. This transformation was fueled by institutions like MIT, Harvard, and Boston University, and supported by a robust supplier base.

Deep Tech Investment Landscape: Charles explains Forma Prime's focus on deep tech, particularly semiconductors, and why this sector sits uniquely between SaaS (low IP moat, high market following) and biotech (high IP moat, long regulatory cycles). Semiconductors offer a high IP moat, a low regulatory environment, and massive implementation potential.

Quantum Technology & Its Applications: We delve into quantum computing, moving beyond the theoretical to discuss real-world applications like quantum GPS that don't rely on satellites and the system on the International Space Station which uses room-temperature neutral atom technology developed by Infleqtion. We also touch upon other use cases like quantum radio frequency technology and quantum GPS timekeeping for synchronization.

Q Day and Cybersecurity: We also explore the concept of "Q Day" – the hypothetical point where quantum computers could break conventional encryption. While Charles believes conventional encryption standards like RSA 256 are still robust, he acknowledges the need for continued research and government support for quantum encryption. Gradient Technologies, a Forma Prime portfolio company, is pioneering hardware-authenticated access to enhance cybersecurity.

Challenges in Academia and Industry Alignment: A critical theme is the disconnect between academia and entrepreneurial activity in the private sector. Charles advocates for better alignment in curricula, teaching styles, and practicums to ensure graduates emerge work-ready. He also emphasizes the need for professors to upskill in emerging technologies and for academia to prioritize practical application and societal value over purely academic pursuits.

The Semiconductor Workforce Crisis: Charles issues a powerful call to action regarding the urgent need for skilled technicians and engineers in the US semiconductor industry. He highlights that we need at least 35,000 technicians for new fabs and urges educators to step forward to develop practical training programs to address this.
This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the bleeding edge of technology and its implications for our future. We unpack complex topics like quantum computing and its real-world applications, offering a clear and accessible overview. We also engage in a timely discussion about the critical role of education in preparing the next generation for a rapidly evolving technological landscape, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities for collaboration between academia and industry. Don't miss it!
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Video versions are available on YouTube and Spotify.
54 min
June 19, 2025Empathy, Leadership, and Collective Action in Higher Ed with Dr. Terri Givens
Dr. Terri Givens is a regular "Friend of the Show" on Trending in Ed and a professor of political science at the University of British Columbia and author of Radical Empathy. She joins host Mike Palmer to discuss the current challenges facing higher education and academic associations, the importance of collaboration, and how individuals can take action in a chaotic world.
Key Takeaways:
Higher education faces significant disruptions, including declining enrollment, reduced research funding, and a shift towards an adjunct-focused model.

Academic associations are crucial for faculty development and networking but struggle with declining membership and funding.

There's a growing demand for academic associations to take political stances, which is challenging for their 501(c)(3) status.

Collaboration and strategic planning are essential for academic associations and universities to navigate current challenges.

The current political landscape highlights systemic issues like racism and discrimination, underscoring the need for mutual aid and community involvement.

Empathy and taking action are vital in addressing societal and educational challenges, as discussed in Dr. Givens' upcoming book, Reckoning.

It's crucial for higher education to better articulate its value, especially that of a liberal education, beyond just job prospects.

The politicization of higher education is a concern, but it also presents an opportunity for institutions to unite and promote their positive impact.

A historical and global perspective helps us understand and navigate current challenges, recognizing that societies have overcome major hurdles before.
Why You Should Listen:
Gain insights into the significant challenges and disruptions impacting higher education and academic associations today.

Learn about the critical role of academic associations and why their struggles have a "domino effect" on the broader academic landscape.

Understand the call for greater collaboration and strategic foresight within higher education to address current and future crises.

Hear Dr. Givens' perspective on how individuals can find agency and make an impact in a chaotic world, emphasizing local action and mutual aid.

Explore the intersection of politics and education, and why staying politically involved is essential for everyone.

Discover why higher education needs to re-articulate its value and address issues like declining male enrollment.
Tune in to hear Dr. Terri Givens share her extensive experience and sharp analysis on the state of higher education, the role of academic associations, and the power of empathy and action in these turbulent times. Subscribe to Trending in Education wherever you get your podcasts and join the conversation!
37 min
June 17, 2025Trending in ED AI with Virtual CoHost Nancy | Episode 700
In the 700th episode of Trending in Ed, host Mike Palmer welcomes back Nancy, our virtual co-host, to delve into the latest and most significant developments in the world of Artificial Intelligence, viewed through the crucial lens of education.
This milestone episode marks the launch of a new sub-feed, Trending in Ed - AI, which will focus specifically on the intersection of education and artificial intelligence. The discussion covers a range of thought-provoking topics, including:
Canny Centaurs and the Uncanny Valley: The hosts revisit concepts like "centaurs" from Advanced Chess and the Uncanny Valley from robotics, discussing how to blend AI with human intuition and empathy to avoid the pitfalls of technology that feels "creepy" while maximizing human augmentation in teaching and learning.

AI in Practice and Pop Culture: The conversation explores AI's immediate applications in education, such as personalized tutoring systems akin to Baymax from Big Hero 6, and accelerated skill development through simulations, drawing parallels to Neo downloading skills in The Matrix. The ethical considerations raised in Black Mirror regarding data privacy and algorithmic bias are also discussed. Yeah, we hit some pop culture to keep things zeitgeisty!

Sycophantic Drift: We introduce the fascinating (and humorous?) concept of "sycophantic drift," examining how AI assistants might unintentionally become overly agreeable and flattering, posing a challenge for designing educational AI that provides accurate feedback. Nancy marvels at how great we are at this!

New AI Hardware and Surveillance: Then we touch on the intriguing collaboration between Jony Ive and Sam Altman to develop new AI hardware, specifically the "AI surveillance medallion," and the implications for privacy and continuous data capture.

Contrasting AI Philosophies: Mike and Nancy highlight the differing perspectives of AI leaders, contrasting Luis von Ahn of Duolingo's "AI-first" strategy, which views AI as a superior teacher, with Dario Amodei of Anthropic's focus on AI safety, ethical alignment, and the potential for job displacement.

Mary Meeker's Latest AI Report: The discussion concludes with an analysis of Mary Meeker's recent report on AI adoption, emphasizing its unprecedented speed, plummeting inference costs, and the "great reshuffling" of job roles, signaling AI as mandatory infrastructure rather than an optional one.
Subscribe to Trending in Ed wherever you get your pods to stay informed across the learning universe. Tune in to Trending in Ed - AI to gain deeper insights into the critical discussions shaping the future of AI and its use in education and technology.
26 min
June 02, 2025Credential Transparency and the Future of Work with Scott Cheney
On this episode of Trending in Education, Mike Palmer sits down with Scott Cheney, CEO of Credential Engine, to discuss the evolving landscape of credentials and their vital role in shaping our future workforce. They delve into the complexities of a skills-based economy, the challenges of translating diverse experiences into recognized credentials, and the crucial need for transparency and common standards in education and employment data.
The Problem of a Confusing Marketplace: With nearly a million unique credentials offered by some 60,000 providers in the U.S., individuals face a daunting task in understanding how to acquire the skills needed for career advancement. Credential Engine aims to simplify this by putting all information into a common, accessible format.

Beyond Traditional Credentials: The conversation highlights that a credential is any recognition of skills, from a high school diploma to a PhD, including apprenticeships, micro-credentials, and badges. A significant challenge lies in helping the 37 million adults with some college but no degree articulate their skills in the marketplace.

The Power of Interoperability and Transparency: Cheney emphasizes the importance of interoperability—ensuring that a skill defined by one institution is understood consistently by another. This is achieved through the Credential Transparency Description Language (CTDL), an open-source framework that standardizes information about credentials, skills, pathways, and outcomes.

Navigating the AI Revolution: While AI offers immense potential for personalizing educational and career pathways, Cheney expresses concern about the quality of data currently feeding AI tools in the marketplace. The goal is to ensure that AI utilizes trusted, verifiable, structured data to truly empower individuals.

A Bipartisan and Collaborative Effort: Credential Engine's work spans over 30 states and involves bipartisan discussions in Congress, underscoring a broad recognition of the need for greater transparency in education and workforce development. This is an ecosystem play, requiring collaboration from institutions, policymakers, and technology vendors to truly transform how individuals navigate their educational and career journeys.
If you're interested in the future of education, workforce development, and how technology can bridge the gap between skills and opportunities, this episode is a must-listen. Scott Cheney provides a clear and compelling vision for a more transparent and navigable credentialing ecosystem, offering insights into how standardized data and thoughtful policy can empower individuals and strengthen the economy. Learn why making sense of skills and credentials is as crucial as having reliable GPS for navigating your daily commute.
Subscribe to Trending in Education wherever you get your podcasts to catch more conversations with leaders shaping the future of learning!
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:38 Scott Cheney's Professional Journey
03:16 Understanding Credential Engine
06:03 The Importance of Credentials and Skills
08:48 Interoperability and Standardization
13:39 Credential Transparency and Policy Advocacy
18:06 AI and the Future of Credentials
27:22 Blockchain and Global Credentialing
30:28 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
33 min
May 29, 2025Mindshifting with Mitch Weisburgh | Trending in Ed with Mike Palmer
On this episode of Trending in Education, host Mike Palmer is joined by educator, speaker, and author Mitch Weisburgh to discuss the concept of "mindshifting" and its profound implications for education, personal development, and navigating a rapidly changing world. Mitch shares his journey from teaching computer skills in the early days of personal computing to developing frameworks for resilience, resourcefulness, and collaboration that he now calls mindshifting. Check out Mitch's book on the topic to learn more.
The conversation delves into the origins of Mitch's work, including his experience advising educational publishers and his pivotal trip to Niger where he first articulated the principles of "sensemaking," a precursor to mindshifting. They explore how these foundational mindsets are crucial in an era of constant disruption, from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic to the transformative potential of artificial intelligence.
Key Takeaways:
Mindshifting as a Foundational Skill: Mitch Weisburgh advocates for "mindshifting" as a critical skill set encompassing resourcefulness, resilience, and collaboration, essential for individuals and society to thrive in complex environments.

Resourcefulness: Mastering Your Brain: Resourcefulness involves recognizing when your "survival brain" is holding you back, intercepting those instincts, and tapping into more resourceful parts of your mind.

Resilience: Learning from Feedback: Resilience is about approaching new situations with an experimental mindset, viewing outcomes as feedback rather than failures, and continually adjusting to move forward.

Collaboration: Connecting and Moving Forward: Effective collaboration requires understanding different conflict styles, building genuine connections with others, and finding solutions that satisfy everyone's needs.

AI and the Future of Learning: While AI presents challenges, such as students using it to avoid genuine learning, it also offers immense potential to enhance collaborative interventions and practice opportunities in education.
Why You Should Listen:
If you're an educator looking for innovative approaches to professional development, a professional seeking strategies for navigating complex challenges, or simply someone interested in personal growth and understanding the mental frameworks that drive success, this episode offers valuable insights. Mitch Weisburgh's accessible framework for mindshifting provides practical tools for improving resourcefulness, resilience, and collaboration in all aspects of life, from the classroom to personal well-being. His work emphasizes the inherent power within each individual to foster these essential qualities.
Subscribe to Trending in Education for more engaging conversations on the evolving landscape of learning and work!
36 min
May 22, 2025Trending in Ed "OG" Reunion with Brandon Jones and Dan Strafford
Step into a very special episode of Trending in Ed, where host Mike Palmer reunites with fellow co-founders Brandon Jones and Dan Strafford! Since its inception in September 2016, Trending in Ed has been a consistent voice in education, and this reunion delivers a nostalgic yet forward-looking take on education trendspotting. Catch up with Brandon and Dan, discover what they've been doing, and hear their and Mike's reflections on the podcast's journey and the evolving landscape of education over the past 8+ years. Here's the link to Tim Urban's What's Our Problem? which Brandon refers to in the conversation.
Key Takeaways
The Enduring Relevance of Early Discussions: Even before the pandemic, the "OG" hosts were discussing virtual learning, distance models, and the role of smartphones in the classroom, topics that remain highly relevant today.

The Nuanced View of Elon Musk: The hosts reflect on their past fascination with Elon Musk's expansive thinking and ability to apply systems thinking across various domains, while also acknowledging the shift in public perception and the potential for too many ventures for one individual, not to mention the troubling devolution of his public persona.

AI as a Tool for Both Progress and Concern: While recognizing AI's potential to enhance mental health solutions—such as processing large datasets for patient notes and improving crisis hotlines—the conversation also touches on concerns about AI's impact on human connection, critical thinking, and potential for widening societal gaps.

The Evolution of Education and Lifelong Learning: The hosts discuss the potential for fundamental disruption in education, particularly with the rise of AI, and emphasize the increasing importance of lifelong learning as traditional educational paths evolve.

The Importance of Courage and Human Connection: Amidst discussions of societal challenges and technological advancements, the conversation consistently returns to the significance of human connection and the need for courage to navigate uncertainty and take action.

A Blast from the Past with a Modern Twist: For long-time listeners, this episode is a rare opportunity to hear the original trio back together, reminiscing about the early days of the podcast and reflecting on how their predictions and observations have played out.

Deep Dives into Trending Topics: The hosts tackle pressing contemporary issues such as the impact of AI on mental health, the future of education, and the ongoing influence of figures like Elon Musk, offering diverse perspectives and thoughtful analysis.

Insights from Industry Leaders: Brandon Jones, CEO of Triad, shares his expertise on mental health in education and the potential of AI in behavioral health. Dan Strafford, an early podcasting adopter and new media producer, discusses his work in sales enablement and the continued evolution of video and audio production.
Don't miss this special reunion episode! Subscribe to Trending in Ed wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an insight.
43 min
May 20, 2025Empowering Advancement - AI and Its Impact on Social Mobility
What if AI could level the playing field in higher education? This episode of Trending in Education explores that very question with Cecilia Marshall, Chief Advancement Officer at Ed Advancement. Host Mike Palmer and Marshall delve into the complex and compelling potential of AI, focusing on its impact on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other institutions serving under-resourced students.
Marshall, whose journey winds from corporate advertising to the heart of educational advocacy, shares Ed Advancement's vital work: strengthening mission-driven colleges to fuel social mobility. The conversation moves beyond the hype surrounding AI to address the crucial need for ethical implementation, data sovereignty, and genuine collaboration with students and schools.
We discover how AI enablement—building robust data infrastructure—can unlock personalized learning, streamline advising, and ultimately drive student success. Marshall doesn't shy away from the challenges: algorithmic bias, the digital divide, and the ever-present need for AI literacy.
This isn't just a discussion about technology; it's a story about equity, access, and the future of learning.
Key Takeaways:
AI enablement, focusing on data governance, is essential for leveraging AI tools.

AI has the potential to create personalized pathways for students, improving advising and career planning.

Addressing the ethical implications of AI, including bias, is crucial for equitable implementation.

AI can potentially close the divide between well-resourced and under-resourced institutions.

Institutions need to prioritize AI literacy and dexterity for both students and staff.
Subscribe to Trending in Education wherever you get your podcasts. Join the conversation shaping what’s next in education.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:03 Cecilia Marshall's Professional Journey
02:51 About Ed Advancement
04:29 AI in Higher Education
07:51 Challenges and Opportunities with AI
09:52 AI Enablement and Data Utilization
12:00 Personalized Pathways and Student Success
16:14 AI Literacy and Ethical Considerations
20:33 Navigating Overwhelming Website Content
21:30 The Importance of Personalization for Students
22:45 Challenges Faced by HBCUs
24:55 Data Governance and Integration
27:26 IT Talent and Resource Allocation
32:11 Future of AI in Education
34:06 Personal Reflections and Career Advice
36:22 Concluding Thoughts and Takeaways
38 min
May 15, 2025Teacher Empowerment and the Future of K12 Education with Juliana Finegan VP Educator Experience @ Vivi
Forget everything you thought you knew about digital signage – it's not just for the front office anymore. In this episode recorded live at the ASU+GSV Summit, host Mike Palmer sits down with Juliana Finegan, VP of Educator Experience @ Vivi to explore the evolving landscape of education and the crucial factors that drive teacher success.
Drawing from her experience as a former high school chemistry and 8th-grade science teacher and her work with organizations like the Learning Accelerator, Juliana shares valuable perspectives on blended learning, teacher empowerment, and the innovative ways technology can transform classrooms.
Then we dive into Vivi's work in providing tools like digital signage, emergency alerts, and wireless screen sharing and how these tools are being implemented to build community, enhance safety, and create student-driven learning experiences.
The episode also unpacks the findings of a research study conducted by Vivi in partnership with the Learning Accelerator, revealing the key drivers that enable teachers to feel successful.
Key Takeaways:
The Four Key Drivers of Teacher Success: Understand the framework that identifies what truly makes teachers feel successful, moving beyond just surviving to thriving in their profession.

Building Community and Connection: Discover the importance of fostering a sense of community and connection within schools and how it impacts both teacher and student success.

The Evolution of Classroom Technology: Explore how tools like Vivi are facilitating more student-driven learning environments and promoting flexibility in teaching and learning.

Looking Ahead to the Future of EdTech: Gain insights into the future of educational technology, including AI's potential role and the importance of creating flexible, future-proof solutions.
Why You Should Listen:
If you're an educator, administrator, or anyone passionate about the future of education, this episode is a must-listen. You'll gain actionable insights into:
How to cultivate a more supportive and empowering environment for teachers.

Innovative strategies for leveraging technology to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

The key elements of effective blended learning and personalized learning approaches.

A glimpse into the classrooms of the future and how technology will shape them.
Join us for this engaging conversation with Juliana Finegan and discover how we can work together to create a brighter future for education. Subscribe to Trending in Ed wherever you get your podcasts to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and insights in education and edtech.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:52 Journey into Blended Learning
01:15 Building Teacher Prep Programs
02:37 Scaling and Innovation in Education
05:15 Research on Teacher Success
07:04 Framework for Teacher Success
13:09 Building Relationships in the Classroom
13:55 Key Takeaways for Educational Leaders
14:26 Innovative Uses of Digital Signage
15:01 Morning Announcements and Student Engagement
17:17 Future of Classroom Technology
18:33 Vivi's Role in Modern Education
21:30 Flexible Learning Environments
24:19 Empowering Teachers and Students
24:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
25 min
May 14, 2025Talking Financial Literacy with Dealing with Debt Founders Desmond Stinnie and Addison Wiggin
In this episode of Trending in Education, host Mike Palmer interviews Desmond Stinnie and Addison Wiggin, the co-founders of Dealing with Debt, a platform focused on financial literacy and community support. Desmond shares his lifelong passion for financial education, tracing back to his childhood curiosity about money. Addison brings his 30 years of experience in financial publishing and macroeconomic analysis, highlighting the evolution of consumer culture and debt. Together, they discuss the importance of understanding one's relationship with debt, the distinction between good and bad debt, and the need for accessible financial education.
The conversation also explores the role of community and advocacy in empowering individuals to navigate their financial challenges.
Key Takeaways:
Financial Literacy is Essential: Understanding how money works and developing a healthy relationship with debt is crucial for financial well-being.

Not All Debt Is Created Equal: Learning to distinguish between good and bad debt can empower individuals to use debt as a tool for wealth building.

Community and Advocacy: Building a supportive community and advocating for consumer rights can help individuals overcome financial challenges and reduce feelings of isolation.

Embrace Technology: Leveraging technology like AI can enhance financial education and provide more efficient access to valuable information.
Why You Should Listen:
This episode offers valuable insights into the importance of financial literacy, the complexities of debt, and the power of community support. Whether you're facing financial challenges or seeking to improve your financial knowledge, this conversation provides practical advice and a fresh perspective on achieving financial wellness.
Subscribe to Trending in Education for more insightful discussions on the future of learning. Follow us wherever you get your podcasts.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:31 Founders' Background Stories
02:35 Addison's Financial Publishing Journey
05:35 The Birth of Dealing with Debt
08:15 Building a Financial Literacy Community
12:08 Features of the Dealing with Debt Platform
25:08 Future Directions and AI Integration
29:43 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
32 min

About Trending In Ed with Mike Palmer

From the publisher's feed

At the intersection of learning, media, and the future of work, join us each week as we sense and discover where the future of education is heading. Join host Mike Palmer, the Founder of Palmer Media,…