Disrupt Education Podcast

In this episode of the Disrupt Education podcast, Peter and Alli dive deep into a conversation with Mark C. Perna about how small, meaningful changes can revolutionize education. They discuss the importance of understanding Gen Z, building relationships with students, and making learning relevant by always answering the "why." Mark emphasizes that disrupting education doesn't require massive uphea...

In this episode, we dive into the power of trusted networks in education with Christine Cruzvergara from Handshake. We explore how educators can disrupt traditional education models by leveraging relationships, technology, and real-world challenges. Christine shares how Handshake is leveling the playing field for students seeking career opportunities and how institutions can partner with tech comp...

In this episode of the Disrupt Education podcast, we sit down with Christine Cruzvergara, Chief Strategy Officer at Handshake. Christine shares her journey from higher education to leading in the tech space, emphasizing how change management and mentorship shaped her career. We dive into the evolving role of work-based learning and how platforms like Handshake and Riipen are transforming how stude...

In this episode of Disrupt Education, Peter and Alli recap their insightful conversation with Kevin Fleming. They discuss the dual approach to education reform, focusing on both grassroots and top-down efforts. Kevin emphasizes the need for internal champions and external agitators to drive meaningful change. The episode highlights the growing network of organizations like Catapult working to crea...

In this episode of the Disrupt Education Podcast, Peter Hostrawser and Alli Privitt dive into the importance of work-based learning and how it can transform education. Inspired by guest Kristy Volesky’s insights, they explore the pivotal role of middle school in allowing students to explore career pathways early, planting the seeds for future success. The conversation emphasizes how businesses can...

In this episode of the Disrupt Education Podcast, co-hosts Peter Hostrawser and Alli Privitt sit down with Kristy Volesky, an esteemed expert in work-based learning and author of Transformational Work-Based Learning: Leading Exceptional Internship Programs. Kristy shares her journey from being a business teacher in rural Iowa to becoming a national leader in work-based learning. She discusses the...

In the latest episode of the Disrupt Education podcast, co-hosts Peter Hostrawser and Alli Privitt dive into a recap of their previous conversation with Scott Carr, exploring the deep and often challenging process of driving transformational change in education. They discuss the importance of being emotionally invested in change, moving beyond the "why" to the "what" and "...

Guest: Scott Carr, Career, Community, and Life Readiness Consultant at CESA 2 Key Takeaways: Career and Community Readiness: Scott Carr is working with school districts to shift their focus towards a K-12 approach that prepares students for careers and community involvement. Redefining Student Success: The goal is to revise, reimagine, and redefine the educational system to prioritize relevance fo...

In this episode of the Disrupt Education podcast, Peter and Alli discuss the importance of finding purpose and investing in change within education. Peter shares his excitement about innovative projects in his district, highlighting efforts to connect schools with community leaders and businesses to build practical, skill-based curriculums. The conversation explores the dynamic relationship betwee...

In this episode of the Disrupt Education podcast, Peter Hostrawser and Alli Privitt delve into the transformative potential of student-centered learning. They explore how schools can better prepare students by focusing on individual skills and interests rather than standardized test scores. Through conversations with Moe and Samanta, they highlight the importance of practical experiences and real-...

In this episode of Disrupt Education, Peter and Alli sit down with Moe to explore his journey through high school and how the COVID-19 pandemic shaped his educational experience. Moe highlights the challenges of adjusting to post-pandemic schooling, emphasizing the need for better mental health resources and more flexible schedules. He discusses the importance of acknowledging the pandemic's i...

In this episode of Disrupt Education, we dive into the importance of reimagining the school model to foster creativity, networking, and real-world experiences. Discussing insights from a recent graduate, we explore the benefits of individualized education, the impact of being surrounded by passionate individuals, and the power of integrating technology in learning. We emphasize staying open to inn...

In this episode of the Disrupt Education podcast, Peter Hostrawser and Alli Privitt interview recent high school graduate Samanta Kavaliauskaite. Samanta shares insights about her transition from aspiring cardiothoracic surgeon to a career in advertising and marketing. She discusses the importance of exposure to real-life experiences and the impact of social media on her education. Samanta emphasi...

In this episode of the Disrupt Education podcast, Peter and Alli explore the importance of challenging oneself in education, drawing insights from Rachel's transition from a classroom teacher to a director in Texas State Parks. They emphasize the value of staying connected to the community and finding new ways to engage and inspire. Alli highlights her efforts to bring more women into skydivin...

In this episode of the Disrupt Education Podcast, we dive into Rachel Flinn's transformative journey from aspiring doctor to passionate park ranger. Rachel shares the pivotal moments and self-discovery that led her to embrace a career in conservation and education. We explore the unique educational opportunities within state parks and how they provide invaluable, hands-on learning experiences...

In this episode of Disrupt Education, Peter and Alli discuss the importance of embracing change, maintaining a beginner's mindset, and facing fears for personal growth. They emphasize consistency in achieving goals and encourage educators to innovate and engage with students meaningfully. Tune in for inspiring insights and practical tips. Embrace Change: Peter and Alli emphasize the need for e...

In this episode of the Disrupt Education podcast, hosts Peter Hostrawser and Alli Privitt welcome Nikki Green, author of "Chameleon Mindset." Nikki shares her journey of setting ambitious goals, including appearing on 100 podcasts in 60 days, and how it led to even greater opportunities. The conversation highlights the importance of embracing the beginner mindset, asking questions, and b...

In this episode, Peter and Alli dive deep into the importance of Career and Technical Education (CTE) with insights from guests like Cindy Midgett and Robert Peppo. They discuss how CTE can bridge the gap between traditional education and real-world skills, fostering confidence and practical experience in students. This episode is packed with actionable advice for educators, students, and parents...

In this episode, Cindy Midgett, an experienced educator in Career and Technical Education (CTE), shares her insights on the transformative impact of CTE on students' lives. Cindy discusses how CTE equips students with marketable skills, enhances graduation rates, and provides a strong foundation for future careers. She highlights the rigorous certification process for CTE teachers and the impo...

In this episode of Disrupt Education, hosts Alli Privitt and Peter Hostrawser launch a summer series dedicated to rejuvenating educators. They discuss ways to relax, recharge, and gather fresh ideas to revolutionize the upcoming school year. Reflecting on insights from previous guest Robert Peppo, they share strategies to bridge education with real-world relevance, making learning more impactful f...

In this episode of Disrupt Education, Alli Privitt and Peter Hostrawser team up with guest Robert Peppo to explore how educators maximize their summer to "crush it" in the classroom. They dive into strategies for leveraging summer learning to craft innovative curriculum and engaging experiences for students. From professional development to personal growth, they unpack the power of summe...

In this episode of Disrupt Education, Peter and Alli reflect on the past school year, emphasizing the importance of student evaluations and teacher self-assessment. They discuss the differences in feedback from high school and college students, the value of summer for reflection and planning, and the necessity of simplifying educational processes. Looking ahead, they introduce their summer series...

In this episode of the Disrupt Education Podcast, co-hosts Alli Privitt and Peter Hostrawser reflect on a previous conversation with Janette, a true disruptor in the educational realm. They discuss her innovative approach to breaking down silos and fostering cross-curricular collaboration. Janette's work spans various educational contexts, from high schools to nonprofit organizations, where sh...

In this episode of the Disrupt Education Podcast, co-hosts Alli Privitt and Peter Hostrawser interview Dr. Jeanette Starpine, Director of Education and Engagement at the Climate Science Alliance. Dr. Starpine shares her journey from a traditional educational background to a more non-traditional role, bridging science and education. She discusses her unique experiences, including earning a PhD in c...

In this episode, Peter and Alli discuss the evolving landscape of educational infrastructure, focusing on the need for innovative school design and alternative funding sources. They explore the idea of corporate sponsorships in schools, suggesting that businesses could sponsor classroom wings, labs, or other facilities in exchange for exposure and collaboration opportunities. This could help schoo...