In this episode of Bold Women Collective Backstory, host Jolene Levin sits down with Kristen Brooks, educational technology consultant and founder of Kristen Brooks for Edu, for a powerful conversation about voice, creativity, and leadership in education.

After spending 30 years serving the same Georgia school district she once attended as a student, Kristen shares her journey from elementary classroom teacher to edtech pioneer. From launching one of the first elementary iPad labs in her district to coaching educators through change, her story highlights how confidence, mentorship, and innovation shape thriving learning communities.

Recorded live at the Leadhership Conference, this episode explores how giving students and teachers permission to try, fail, and grow can transform classrooms.

What you’ll learn:

• How empowering student voice builds confidence and agency
• What it takes to lead innovation in educational technology
• Why embracing failure strengthens creativity and growth
• Strategies for supporting educators through change with empathy
• How technology and AI can be tools for expression — not replacement

If you’re a teacher, instructional coach, or school leader passionate about innovation and student-centered learning, this episode offers practical inspiration and actionable insight.

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Recorded at The Leadhership Network Conference