Good grades open doors, but they’re only part of the equation. 

In today’s rapidly changing world, students also need to demonstrate adaptability, critical thinking, and the confidence to innovate.

In this episode of Smart Growth Rocket, Francesca Cadhit chats with Jason Lay, Head of Business at Thornhill Secondary School, about how he’s helping high school students build real-world skills through AI, entrepreneurship, and mentorship.

🎧 ▶ We dig into:

🔹 How students are creating AI-powered business ideas

🔹 Why empathy is at the heart of innovation

🔹 What parents can do to help their kids thrive (not just survive) in the future

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or student yourself, this one’s packed with takeaways for a future-ready mindset.

👉 About Jason Lay:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-lay-mba-med-4735a226/

👉 About Francesca Cadhit

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francescacadhit/

🚀 About Smart Growth Rocket

Real-world lessons. Unexpected journeys. Growth beyond grades.

Hosted by Francesca Cadhit of TopClassEdge.com, Smart Growth Rocket brings you inspiring stories from educators, innovators, and changemakers helping students and professionals level up - in school, career, and life.

If you're a student, parent, or lifelong learner who wants real insight, this show is for you.

❤️ Know someone this episode could help? Pass it on.

1. You’ll help a friend or student get inspired or unstuck.

2. You’ll start a conversation that matters.

3. You’ll be part of a community redefining what smart growth looks like.
   

This podcast is a labour of love, from planning and interviews to editing and publishing, and your support means the world. Thank you for being here.