LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education

At a time when school districts are facing rapid change, rising complexity, and the growing influence of AI, traditional strategic plans aren’t cutting it anymore. In this episode, we explore a bold alternative: the Strategic Change Agenda. Together, Steve McCammon (President & CEO) and George Thompson (Former President & Current Director of Strategic Initiatives) at the Schlechty Center,...

AI isn’t coming to classrooms: it's already there. This week on LinkedUp, we sit down with Jeff Riley (Co-Founder, Day of AI) for an accessible conversation about what artificial intelligence really is and what it's not—especially for young learners. Tune in as Jeff walks us through the basics: how AI works at a high level, where students already encounter it in their daily lives, and why...

What does the future of learning look like? In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Jenn Womble, the visionary driving the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC), to get an exclusive look at what’s coming to Orlando in January 2026. Jenn reveals the bold ideas, immersive experiences, and innovative programming shaping one of the world’s most influential edtech gatherings. From step...

AI is evolving fast, but the next leap isn’t about smarter chatbots. It’s about systems that support learners in new ways. In this episode, Jerri and Jamie sit down with Darren Coxon: a trailblazer in agentic AI and one of today's most insightful voices on how AI can enhance learning. Darren unpacks the shift from generative AI to agentic AI, where systems don’t just answer questions; they tak...

What happens when classical learning meets cutting-edge technology? In this episode, we sit down with Kim Abel, the visionary behind Optima Academy, to find out. She shares how VR, AI, and intentional design create unforgettable student experiences, the leadership lessons learned along the way, and the stories that fuel her passion. Tune in as Kim shares the story of Optima Academy’s founding, the...

In this special episode of LinkedUp, Jamie flips the script and interviews her co-host, Jerri Kemble, about her newly released book, The Badass Firefly Effect. Their conversation is heartfelt and illuminating, exploring the stories behind the book and its central message: everyone has the power to shine and help others light up, too. Far from your typical leadership book, The Badass Firefly Effect...

When it comes to personalized learning, high school principal Nicki Slaugh is proving it’s less about tools and more about trust. This week, Jamie and Jerri sit down with Nicki to discuss her new book and learn why she believes personalization is about more than just tech: it's about truly knowing each student and creating the conditions for them to thrive. Tune in for Nicki's real-world s...

This week, Jerri and Jamie are joined by Tony Vincent, an educator whose creative, practical ideas have inspired teachers for years. As the mind behind Learning in Hand, Tony has dedicated his career to helping educators design student-centered, technology-rich learning experiences that spark curiosity and creativity. Tony shares how thoughtful design and meaningful choice can transform engagement...

In this episode, we sit down with author and thought leader Zuica Donev to explore her new book, Inside Job. Zuica shows us why the most impactful leadership starts within and how lasting change comes from the work of self-discovery, resilience, and purpose. Together, we unpack key themes from her book: quieting the noise, leading with authenticity, and building the inner strength to thrive in tod...

School is only the starting line. The real question is: How do we prepare students to drive and thrive in a future economy we can barely imagine? In this episode, we sit down with Brad Baird, founder of Penda Learning, and Dr. Steve Miller, a leading researcher on learning platforms, to discuss the future of education and explore what it takes to connect learning with real-world opportunities. Tog...

What happens when a high school student’s big idea meets a classroom full of learners? In this episode, you’ll meet Ronil Dubal, a high school senior and founder of Studysnap, and Meghan Killeen, a curriculum specialist who put the app to work with her students at Temple University. After inviting Ronil to share Studysnap with her English language learners, Meghan discovered just how powerful the...

We're celebrating International Dot Day with the return of bestselling author and illustrator Peter H. Reynolds to the pod! In this episode, we catch up with Peter on what's been keeping him busy lately and how he's expanding the Dot movement to millions around the world. Together, we dive into Peter's work, including new stories that champion kindness and courage, and learn more a...

What happens when a side hustle disappears, a global pandemic flips everything upside down, and two college students refuse to sit still? For Sophie English Smith and Leah Guesman, it sparked an idea that would reshape how families navigate the college journey. In this episode, we sit down with the co-founders of Your College Contact, a mentorship service built to take the stress out of applicatio...

How do you lead with purpose, serve with heart, and still make room to grow? In this episode, we’re joined by Drew Hinds, an education leader whose journey takes us from the classroom to the Oregon Department of Education and beyond. With every step, Drew’s focus stays crystal clear: empowering educators and making tech integration not just doable, but transformational. Drew shares a framework for...

Recorded LIVE at ISTE 25/ASCD in San Antonio, Jerri and Jamie sit down with Australian edtech rockstar and #AussieED founder Brett Salakas. Known for his people-first approach to technology, Brett shares how his personal story shaped his mission to connect, empower, and inspire through edtech. Brett offers real-world lessons on building connections, creating meaningful learning experiences, and em...

Get ready to laugh, learn, and level up your classroom with Tyler Tarver! In this lively episode, Jerri and Jamie sit down with the one and only Tyler—educator, author, YouTube sensation, and social media standout—for a conversation that’s equal parts insightful and hilarious. Tyler shares his go-to tech tips and creative strategies to make teaching more fun, effective, and downright unforgettable...

What if bravery isn’t something you’re born with, but something you train for? In this episode, Jerri and Jamie welcome Crista Samaras, former U.S. Women’s National Lacrosse Team player, entrepreneur, and founder of Brave Enterprises. Crista shares her mission to help people, especially women and girls, build measurable bravery so they can face discomfort, take bold risks, and grow with intention....

This week, Jamie and Jerri are joined by veteran education leaders Dr. Susan Enfield and Dr. Kristi Wilson to unpack their new book, On Fire, Under Fire, or Fired: Superintendents in the Pandemic . This book and this conversation shine a light on the emotional toll, public pressure, and deep commitment it takes to lead a school system today. Susan and Kristi share the inspiration behind the book a...

Ready to shake up your classroom or leadership playbook? In this episode, we chat with dynamic educator duo Kristin and Joe Merrill (aka The Merrills) about engaging today's learners through meaningful experiences. Known for their practical insights and infectious enthusiasm, the Merrills dive into how they blend teaching strategies with the power of technology to boost student engagement and...

What does it look like when a seventh grader turns a life-altering moment into a mission? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Matt Giovanniello, CEO of Frenalytics, who used a family tragedy to spark a lifelong drive to serve others. Matt shares how witnessing his grandmother's recovery from a devastating stroke lit a fire that would eventually lead to Frenalytics. Tune in as Matt opens...

This week, we welcome Rebecca Murray, voice coach, speaker, and fierce advocate for the power of self-expression, to the pod. Whether you're leading a classroom, presenting in a boardroom, or stepping onto a stage, Rebecca shares how owning your voice can unlock leadership, confidence, and connection. Join Rebecca as she offers actionable strategies to overcome self-doubt, communicate with authent...

How can school leaders harness the power of AI to fuel innovation, personalize learning, and support educators? Dyane Smokorowski and Rob Dickson, from Wichita Public Schools (WPS), are setting the pace. Join us as they unpack WPS's bold approach to AI integration: one that's focused not just on technology, but on people. Dyane and Rob share how their district is using AI to create more me...

Technology should make teachers' lives easier, not more complicated. This week, we sit down with Arman Jaffer, the visionary behind Brisk Teaching. He shares how a simple idea grew into a powerful platform that helps teachers save time, keeps students engaged, and streamlines school operations. Tune in as Arman takes us inside the journey of building Brisk Teaching—from the first spark of insp...

Think you know the role of the U.S. Department of Education? Think again. In this episode, Collin Earnst from the EdTech Leadership Collective challenges assumptions and sheds light on what the Department of Education really does. From funding and oversight to policy and support, Collin helps us break down the facts, bust common myths, and better understand how this federal agency impacts schools,...

This week, we're sitting down with Dr. Monica Burns, an edtech expert, author, and founder of ClassTechTips.com. With her signature energy and expertise, Monica shares practical strategies, must-know tools, and big-picture insights to help educators use technology in ways that truly support student learning. Whether you're just starting your edtech journey or looking for fresh ideas to dee...