Getting Smart Podcast

The Getting Smart team is excited to be bringing you a conversation with one of their favorite teacher bloggers, Rachelle Dene Poth! Rachelle is a French, Spanish, and technology teacher and an ed-tech consultant. She's also an attorney with a Master's Degree in Instructional Technology and leads the ISTE Teacher Education Network. In 2019, Rachelle received the 'Making IT Happen Award' at the annual ISTE Conference. Rachelle has published four books on education, with her most recent being Chart a New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow's World. In Rachelle's and Tom's conversation today, they discuss Rachelle's newest book and talk about the future for teaching and learning. Key Takeaways: [:10] About today's episode with Rachelle Dene Poth. [:52] Tom welcomes Rachelle to the podcast. [1:26] Going in the way-back machine, Rachelle shares why she studied French at Penn State. [3:33] When and why Rachelle began to study Spanish. [4:38] Having just wrapped up her 24th year at Riverview School District, Rachelle shares some of her thoughts around how quickly time flew by. [5:19] The origin story of how Rachelle became interested in ed-tech and why she became an ed-tech consultant. [7:09] How Rachelle thinks of her role as a teacher and how it has evolved over the course of her 24-year career. [9:15] Rachelle shares her go-to writing strategies and hacks. [11:24] What motivated Rachelle to publish a book of quotes (In Other Words: Quotes that Push our Thinking). [12:58] About Rachelle's book, The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead, and her experience with writing three books at the same time. [14:07] What is 'gladiating together'? [14:42] About Rachelle's book, Unconventional: Ways to Thrive in EDU, and how it provides practical advice for getting started with unconventional learning experiences for all students. [15:53] Advertising and sponsorship opportunities available through Getting Smart. [16:24] About Rachelle and ISTE's collaboration on Chart a New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow's World. [17:04] About ISTE's tried and true process for peer-reviewing books. [18:22] A summarization of Rachelle's advice from chapter 1 of Chart a New Course, "Connections and Presence: Navigating the Digital World". [20:17] A look at Chapter 2: "Team Up: Relationship Building and Social-Emotional Learning." [21:41] How Chapter 3, "Create and Connect: Fostering Communication Skills," gave teachers and readers a broader view of new communication skills. [23:23] What Chapter 4, "Show What You Know: Bringing Stories to Life," covers. [24:30] About the last chapter in the book, "Create Global Connections: Learning Together and Exploring the World." [26:42] Ed-tech lightning round! Tom asks Rachelle: Will AR and VR ever live up to the hype as a learning medium in schools? Does Rachelle use Google Expeditions and other similar tools? What are her thoughts on AI and machine learning? Does she believe that machine learning will impact administrative applications? [29:30] The challenges that come with schools opening back up this fall. [29:54] Is coding more of a language or a job skill? [30:58] Are a lot of Rachelle's students on TikTok? Is the world beginning to shift from print to video? [31:53] Some of Rachelle's favorite apps that help create or leverage sustained learning relationships. [33:10] Rachelle shares words of encouragement for teachers who are undecided whether or not they want to return to the classroom this fall. [35:30] Tom thanks Rachelle for joining the podcast.   Mentioned in This Episode: Rachelle Dene Poth Rachelle Dene Poth's LinkedIn Rachelle Dene Poth's Twitter Posts by Rachelle Dene Poth on GettingSmart.com ISTE Teacher Education Network Chart a New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow's World, by Rachelle Dene Poth In Other Words: Quotes that Push our Thinking, by Rachelle Dene Poth The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead, by Rachelle Dene Porth EduGladiators Unconventional: Ways to Thrive in EDU, by Rachelle Dene Poth Info@GettingSmart.com — Email Jessica to learn more about sponsorships and advertising opportunities with Getting Smart! Google Expeditions Nearpod DreamBox i-Ready Achieve3000 Flipgrid   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You've Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You'd Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include 'Podcast' in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

Today, the Getting Smart team is bringing you an interesting episode on educating on climate change with Nichole Berg and Kimberly Howard.   Nichole Berg is the program's manager for climate change and climate justice at Portland Public Schools where she leads efforts to support the school board's groundbreaking climate literacy solution. Joining Berg in this interview is Kimberly Howard, the Program Officer at Portland General Electric, as well as the sponsor for the development of a climate change curriculum.   Together, Nichole, Kimberly, and Tom discuss the school board's initiative to empower youth leaders and to create more opportunities around civic engagement — specifically around climate change, why Portland General Electric cares so passionately about climate change and why they ultimately decided to partner with Portland Public Schools, and how the curriculum at Portland Public Schools is being developed in partnership with PGE.   Listen in as they talk to Tom Vander Ark about educating for climate change!   Key Takeaways: [:10] About today's episode! [:44] Tom welcomes Nichole and Kimberly to the podcast. [1:47] Nichole's background as a bilingual educator and moving into a role about climate change and justice. [5:30] Background on the groundbreaking 2016 policy that addressed climate change: Portland Board of Education Resolution 5272. Where it came from, what it said, and why it was so groundbreaking. [7:38] In 2019, students rallied around the school board wanting to see systematic change from the policy. They wanted to be empowered as youth leaders and to help create more opportunities around civic engagement. The role Nichole currently holds was created to coordinate and facilitate this effort. [9:37] Why Portland General Electric passionately cares about climate change and why they ultimately decided to partner with Portland Public Schools. [13:06] As an experienced actor, how did Kimberly come to lead a corporate social responsibility initiative? [16:52] "The Way It Is," by William Stafford; how it relates to both of Nichole's and Kimberly's backgrounds and how it has brought them together for this really exciting initiative. [18:37] Nichole addresses some of the skepticism and concerns from the public around having a public energy company sponsor their climate curriculum. She also shares how Kimberly's and her partnership is very symbiotic, positive, and helpful for the students. [22:20] How the curriculum at Portland Public Schools is being developed. [24:29] How PGE employees will be involved with the Portland Public Schools' initiative. [26:17] An example of how PGE partnered with a high school to develop a 50-year energy plan. [29:38] Kimberly describes what success looks like regarding the climate change curriculum. [33:05] Nichole shares what success looks like for her regarding the climate change curriculum. [33:57] Tom thanks Nichole and Kimberly for joining the podcast!   Mentioned in This Episode: GettingSmart.com/GettingThrough National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow Program Portland Board of Education Resolution 5272 Wheatridge Renewable Energy Facility "The Way It Is," by William Stafford Early Morning: Remembering My Father, William Stafford, by Kim Stafford Energy Institute High School   Get Involved: Check out the blog at GettingSmart.com. Find the Getting Smart Podcast on iTunes, leave a review and subscribe.   Is There Somebody You've Been Wanting to Learn From or a Topic You'd Like Covered? To get in contact: Email Editor@GettingSmart.com and include 'Podcast' in the subject line. The Getting Smart team will be sure to add them to their list!  

In this episode of "Catching Up," Mason Pashia and Nate McClennen dive into the endless potential of AI across various sectors, with a focus on education and music. They explore the implications of AI-generated music, the concept of unbundling education to expand learning ecosystems, and the emerging importance of digital credentials and learner records. The discussion also highlights a new framework for school redesign, emphasizing real-world experiences and adaptability in a changing labor market. They further delve into the concept of abundance, inspired by recent literature, and its application to educational innovation. The episode concludes with a reflection on the enduring value of human connections and creativity in an increasingly digital world. Tune in to explore how these themes are reshaping the landscape of learning and work. Watch the full video here Suno Choosing Abundance Despite an Instinct for Scarcity: New Experiences and New Models More Options, More Opportunities: How AI Can Support High-Quality Learning for All Digital Credentials Summit Recap Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson Michael Horn and Ron Matus

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Paul Benedict, associate professor and executive director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Ohio University, about their groundbreaking AI initiative. In just two years, the College of Business transformed how students think about AI, entrepreneurship, and real-world problem-solving. From rapid prototyping workshops to AI-powered business solutions, Paul shares how Ohio University is preparing students to be AI-capable and thrive in a tech-driven world. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about future-ready learning and innovative uses of AI in education. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Ohio University's AI Initiative (14:21) Five Key Areas of AI Application (18:03) Entrepreneurial Mindset and Career Paths (22:05) AI Programs and Curriculum Integration (25:54) Leadership and Future Initiatives Links Read the fulll blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Ohio University The Artificial Intelligence Show  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Dr. Ronald Dahl, a distinguished pediatrician and developmental scientist from UC Berkeley, to explore the transformative potential of adolescence. Together, they discuss why adolescence is not just a period of vulnerability but also a dynamic window of opportunity for learning, growth, and authentic contribution. Dr. Dahl highlights the importance of fostering agency, mattering, and experiential learning environments that allow young people to feel valued and empowered. From the neuroscience of brain plasticity to the actionable steps educators and leaders can take to create supportive systems, this conversation dives deep into how we can rethink adolescent development and learning. Tune in for insights on building authentic connections, navigating challenges, and creating spaces where young people can thrive and make meaningful contributions. Outline (06:53) The Science of Adolescent Development (13:19) The Importance of Mattering and Contribution (19:48) Agency, Autonomy, and the Adolescent Experience (26:02) Technology, Learning, and Agency in Youth (33:09) Work, Civic Engagement, and Experiential Learning (39:31) Wisdom, Policy, and Closing Reflections Links Read the full blog here LinkedIn UC Berkeley  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Rebecca Midles sits down with Jon Alfuth and Julianna Charles Brown from KnowledgeWorks to explore the "how" behind transforming education systems. The conversation dives deep into the importance of state policy frameworks, personalized learning, and competency-based education to create future-ready systems. They discuss the role of a shared vision, like a Portrait of a Graduate, in driving systemic change and aligning policy with practice. With examples from states like Montana and Washington, this episode highlights how flexible learning pathways and transferable skills can prepare students for an uncertain future. Tune in to learn about the intersection of policy, practice, and innovation, and discover how systems can be reimagined to better serve learners. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Vision for Education (13:16) Policy Framework Overview (19:32) Implementing Policy Changes (26:06) Flexible Learning Pathways (32:33) State Examples and Success Stories (35:04) Lightning Round Q&A Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn | Jon Alfuth LinkedIn | Charlie Brown Jon Alfuth | KnowldegeWorks Charlie Brown | KnowledgeWorks KowledgeWorks  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Jeanine Collins, co-founder and Chief Impact Officer of the Center for the Future of Learning joins to share how Nevada is transforming its education system through bold partnerships, learner-centered design, and the arts. This episode dives into her journey from classroom teaching to leading statewide initiatives that redefine success for students through the Portrait of a Learner. Jeanine discusses the power of arts in education, how intermediary organizations can bridge policy and practice, and the importance of building collective action to drive systemic change. Tune in to explore how Nevada is fostering meaningful, interactive learning experiences that empower students to thrive in their communities and beyond. Outline (00:00) Early Career and Education (04:14) Transition to Education Policy (06:54) Founding the Center for the Future of Learning (12:22) Youth Engagement and Innovation (14:53) Values-Driven Leadership (20:08) Building Networks and Future Vision Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Nevada Portrait of a Learner Jeanine Collins Linkedin Previous podcast with Jeanine on Nevada Succeeds Center for the Future of Learning  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark is joined by Dr. Tony Wagner and Dr. Ulrik Christensen to dive into their new book, Mastery: Why Deeper Learning is Essential in the Age of Distraction. Together, they unpack the concept of mastery learning, why it matters in today's rapidly changing world, and how it connects to deeper learning and student agency. The conversation highlights innovative approaches to education, real-world examples from schools like Red Bridge and Olin College, and the critical need to foster intrinsic motivation and lifelong learning skills. Whether you're an educator, policymaker, or passionate about the future of learning, this is a must-listen episode! Outline (00:00) Introduction to Mastery Learning (11:10) The Changing Nature of Work and Learning (16:33) Assessment and Curriculum Changes (21:27) Early Education and Student Agency (26:58) Team-Based Learning and Real-World Applications (31:54) Scaling and Implementation Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here Ulrik Christensen LinkedIn Tony Wagner LinkedIn Podcast: Virginia Superintendent James Lane on Unleashing Innovation How to Prepare Learners for an Uncertain Future: A Conversation with Dr. Tony Wagner Book Review: Creating Innovators  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen sits down with Matt Bowman, co-founder of Open Ed, to explore how unbundled learning and personalized education are transforming the future of learning. They discuss Open Ed's innovative approach to blending public and private education systems, the role of competency-based learning, and how families can become education designers for their children. The conversation also dives into the impact of AI on education and how it's driving demand for flexible, learner-centered ecosystems. Whether you're a parent, educator, or policymaker, this episode offers actionable insights into creating personalized pathways for every learner. Outline (00:00) Rethinking the System (03:39) Creative Learning Experiences (13:57) Open Ed's Model (20:36) Accountability and Competency (27:07) Who Is Open Ed For? (33:41) The Future: AI, Community, and Connection Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Matt Bowman's Books OpenEd  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Dr. Isaac Agbeshie-Noye, Program Director for Widening Pathways at the SHRM Foundation. They discuss the concept of a skills-first future and how it can unlock potential and economic mobility through inclusive hiring practices. The conversation highlights the importance of aligning skills with workforce needs, the role of AI in shaping employment, and the value of collaboration between employers, schools, and training providers. Tune in to learn about the strategies and tools driving a more equitable and skills-focused workforce. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Skills First Future (05:36) Understanding the Skills First Approach (09:59) Barriers to Skills-Based Hiring (14:38) Digital Infrastructure and Ecosystem Solutions (19:27) Impact of AI on the Future of Work (27:46) Next Steps and Future Initiatives Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn SHRM Skills First Future

In this episode of Catching Up, Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia dive into the latest innovations shaping the future of learning. From Alpha School's groundbreaking two-hour AI-driven learning model to the rise of ambient AI that integrates seamlessly into our everyday lives, this conversation explores the intersection of technology, education, and human connection. They also reflect on the importance of relational intelligence in schools, the role of real-world learning during the remaining six hours of a student's day, and the growing significance of personalized and competency-based education. Tune in for thought-provoking insights and actionable ideas to reimagine education for a future-ready world. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview (05:46) Discussion on AI Companionship and Connection (11:38) Updates on Educational Initiatives (17:25) Alpha School and Two-Hour Learning Day (29:44) Ambient AI and Learning Assessment (35:30) Day in the Life of an Educator 2040 (42:51) Uniquely Human Experiences and Closing (48:12) What's That Song? Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here What happens when AI chatbots replace real human connection? American Friendship Project Boosties Tylenol, Autism and the Perils of Basic-Level Literacy 7 insights about Chronic Absenteeism Transcend: The Relationship Between Student Experiences and Outcomes COVID Worsened Long Decline in 12th-Graders' Reading, Math Skills A Day in the Life of an Educator 2040 USC Rossier Master of Education  

In this podcast episode, leaders Virgel Hammonds and Beth Rabbitt discuss how FullScale is accelerating competency-based and personalized learning by aligning practice, policy, people, and progress. By adopting a Co-CEO leadership model, they emphasize the power of collaboration, distributed leadership, and bold accountability to drive systemic change. This episode dives into the importance of coherence across education systems and the role of Full Scale in creating tools, evidence, and partnerships to empower learners and educators. Tune in to explore how this unification aims to reimagine education at scale! Outline (00:00) Introduction and Personal Interests (04:32) The Vision Behind the Merger (08:37) Full Scale's Ambitious Goals (11:52) Co-CEO Leadership Model (20:09) Accelerating Growth in Competency-Based Learning (25:22) The Future of the Annual Symposium (34:13) Closing Thoughts and Call to Action Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Beth Rabbitt LinkedIn Virgel Hammonds LinkedIn FullScale FullScale Symposium

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Mason Pashia sits down with David McCullough III, co-founder of the American Exchange Project, to explore how domestic student exchanges can foster empathy, bridge cultural divides, and build lifelong curiosity. Learn how this innovative program connects high school students across the U.S., encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new perspectives, and contribute to their communities. Tune in to hear about the transformative power of travel, the origins of the program, and its vision for creating a more united and empathetic future Outline (00:00) Introduction and Background (04:31) Origins of the American Exchange Project (08:35) History of Exchange Programs (16:41) Current State of American Exchange Project (21:58) Program Structure and Activities (34:12) Future Growth and Vision Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here American Exchange Project LinkedIn

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Rebecca Midles sits down with Dr. Bill Nicely, Educator in Residence at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, to explore how cross-state, cross-sector collaboration in Kansas City is transforming education. They discuss the Real World Learning Initiative, the importance of market value assets for students, and how partnerships between urban, suburban, and rural districts are creating equitable opportunities. Tune in to learn how this innovative approach is preparing students for the future of work and fostering systemic change in education. Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (03:39) Collaboration During the Pandemic (07:12) Challenges and Successes in Cross-State Collaboration (11:38) The Role of Business Partnerships (18:54) Measuring Success and Quality (25:44) Future Trends in Education Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation  

Join us on this week's Getting Smart Podcast as we sit down with Sangeet Paul Choudary, author of Reshuffle: Who Wins When AI Attacks the Knowledge Economy. Together with Tom Vander Ark, Sangeet explores the profound reshuffling of markets, education, and talent development in the age of AI. Discover how the value creation chain—curiosity, curation, and judgment—is shifting and why reimagining systems around AI as an engine, rather than a tool, is the key to thriving in the future. Tune in to unlock insights into coordination, innovation, and the possibilities of AI-driven ecosystems. Listen now! Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Great Reshuffling (04:55) Curiosity, Curation, and Judgment (15:38) AI as a Tool vs. AI as an Engine (23:14) Coordination and the Future of AI Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn Reshuffle Platform Thinking Labs First Getting Smart Podcast Appearance Sangeet Substack  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen and Hayley Spira-Bauer explore the transformative potential of AI, media literacy, and personalized learning in reshaping education. The lively conversation discusses how generative AI can reduce teacher workloads, foster high-agency classrooms, and create opportunities for meaningful human connections. The conversation also dives into the importance of media literacy as a core skill for navigating today's digital landscape, empowering students to critically evaluate information and thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Tune in to discover actionable insights on building innovative, student-centered learning ecosystems and preparing learners for the future. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Guest Introduction (01:50) AI's Impact on Teacher Workload (03:41) Increasing Human Connection and Learning Ecosystems (10:23) Reimagining Cross-Curricular Teaching (14:27) Student Agency and Self-Directed Learning (31:49) The Role of Content Knowledge and Skills Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Hayley Spira-Bauer Website LinkedIn Fullmind Learning Can't Wait Podcast  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia explore key topics shaping education today, from the varying start dates of schools across the U.S. to the global progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They dive into data on teacher shortages, discussing challenges with retention and exploring innovative solutions like rethinking educator models. The conversation also touches on the neuroscience of adolescent identity formation, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for healthy risk-taking and personal growth in schools. Tune in to hear insights on how schools can address current challenges while fostering connection, curiosity, and purpose among learners. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Agenda (04:02) Global Goals and School Meals Progress (07:40) Public School Perception Survey Results (12:48) Teacher Shortage Data and Analysis (17:36) Rethinking Teacher Models (27:28) Identity Formation and Adolescent Development (37:23) Human Expression and Connection (42:47) What's That Song? Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here When Do Kids Go Back to School? Exclusive Poll: As Support for Schools Plummets, Americans Resist Closing Education Department Reading for Fun: Student Experiences How an Indiana District Puts a Premium on Teacher Autonomy Overview of Teacher Shortages How Can We Keep Teachers Teaching? State of the American Teacher Survey The Teaching Model That's Keeping Educators in Schools The Great Simplification Podcast: Taylor Guthrie Sand Talk: Indigenous Thinking in a World That's Lost Its Way Mile-Long Table in Denver Seats Thousands of Strangers to Eat and Celebrate Community Introducing Kestrel and Other Songs  

Join us on the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast as Rebecca Midles sits down with Dr. Dave Richards, Executive Director of the Future Learning Council. Together, they explore how Michigan's coalition of school districts and ISDs is driving statewide transformation through personalized learning and competency-based education. Discover how member-driven networks are fostering collaboration, scaling innovation, and creating flexible, learner-centered systems. From micro-schools to professional development tools, this episode dives deep into the future of education. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about empowering communities and reimagining learning for all students! Outline (00:12) Introduction and Podcast Overview (04:14) Meeting Dave Richards (08:28) Building the Future Learning Council (16:24) Supporting Rural Schools (20:10) Professional Development Resources (23:59) Future Vision and Innovation Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn Future Of Learning Council Michigan Virtual

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen is joined by Kristen Burrus and Michael Stone from Chattanooga to discuss how fab labs and innovative learning ecosystems are transforming STEM education. They explore how STEM School Chattanooga and the Volkswagen eLab Network are integrating project-based learning, credentialing, and essential skill-building to create meaningful pathways for students. Learn how these efforts are bridging the gap between education and workforce readiness, offering students functional solutions to real-world challenges. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Podcast Overview (03:16) Memorable Learning Experiences (07:19) Chattanooga's STEM School Journey (19:17) Leveraging Labs for Essential Skills (20:34) Certification Process and Success Stories (25:37) Building Fab Folio: From Google Forms to AI Integration (29:27) Impact and Future of Fab Folio Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Fab Labs Network Michael Stone - LinkedIn Kristin Burrus - FabLearn Fellow FabLearn Fellows Program Volkswagen eLab Network

Explore the fascinating intersection of poetry, art, and identity on this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast featuring Mason Pashia. Mason discusses his debut book, Kestrel and Other Songs, and dives deep into the creative process, the power of words, and the ways poetry invites us to see the world differently. From his inspirations like Robert Macfarlane to the influence of place and personal experiences, Mason shares insights that connect creativity with education, identity, and community. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that celebrates storytelling, imagination, and the transformative role of art in shaping how we view and engage with the world. Get your copy now! Outline (00:00) Introduction to Kestrel (02:32) The Art of Poetry (12:00) Writing from a Place (15:20) Art and Education (21:45) Futures Thinking and Abundance (25:44) Closing Thoughts and Reflections Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Into Wind Buy Kestrel Landmarks by Robert Macfarlane