LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education

Now more than ever, prioritizing health and wellness in K-12 education is essential. This week, we're joined by Dr. Julian Reed, a leading expert in kinesiology and the science of movement and learning. Dr. Reed shares his research on how physical activity enhances cognition, behavior, and overall well-being. He also offers practical, innovative strategies for integrating movement into the cla...

In this episode of the LinkedUp Podcast, we sit down with Dan Pfaff, Digital Learning Coordinator for Shelby County Public Schools in Kentucky, to explore how his district is redefining accountability and student success. Shelby County has taken a bold, community-driven approach by developing a Benefits-Based Accountability model—one that prioritizes local needs over standardized metrics. A key el...

Recorded LIVE at the 2025 Future of Technology in Education Conference (FETC), in this episode, we’re sitting down with FETC head Jennifer Womble for her insights on the latest trends in education and how they’re shaping the future of learning. Listen and learn how FETC’s mission inspires educators to use technology as more than a tool and create meaningful learning experiences. Together, we'l...

Leaders need practical, actionable strategies to grow and navigate their careers—this episode delivers just that! Join edtech experts Sheryl Abshire, Diane Doersch, Frankie Jackson, and Donna Williamson as they share insights on building strong leadership skills. Discover strategies that foster creativity, flexibility, and adaptability to tackle evolving challenges. Plus, explore how key topics li...

Prepare for a podcast showdown like no other! In this episode, recorded live at FETC, Adam Phyall and Carl Hooker, hosts of the UnDisrupted podcast , join Jerri and Jamie for a lively battle of ideas. Together, we dive into various fun and thought-provoking educational topics, each sharing our unique perspectives and insights. Whether you're a fan of one podcast or both, this episode promises...

What do dueling pianos and leadership transformation have in common? Gregory Offner, Jr., #CLON2025 keynote speaker and author of The Tip Jar Culture, joins us for a dynamic conversation on building engaging, high-performing organizations. As a former piano bar entertainer turned culture expert, Gregory shares how small moments of recognition can create lasting impact, just like a well-played requ...

Curious about bringing AI into your classroom? Dive in with Jack Dougall, an international educator and AI trainer known for his practical, no-nonsense strategies that truly resonate with students and teachers alike. Jack shares how he seamlessly integrates AI into his high school classroom, offering actionable insights you can use right away. Plus, discover Ecmtutors, his groundbreaking peer tuto...

Can you teach creativity? This week, we're diving into The ABCs of Creativity with Dr. Melissa Schmitz from Wise HD. Melissa redefines creativity as a teachable skill, not just an innate talent, and highlights its vital role in today's education. Drawing on her research and experience, Melissa shares practical strategies to foster creativity in schools, empowering students to think critically and...

This week, Jamie and Jerri welcome author, speaker, and EdTech leader Serena Sacks-Mandel back to the pod to discuss her powerful new book, Empowered . Serena shares her journey of resilience, from overcoming a trauma-filled childhood and surviving cancer to breaking through workplace gender barriers. Discover the tools and strategies she used to own her story, find purpose, and transform challeng...

Are the apps on your phone subtly rewiring your brain? Digital sociologist Dr. Julie Albright returns to the pod this week to discuss how social media's dopamine-driven design is reshaping our behavior and society itself. While humans are naturally wired for connection, the random rewards from these apps are creating ripple effects we can't ignore. Learn more about Dr. Albright's groundbreaking re...

This week, Jerri and Jamie welcome Dr. Jason Gulya to the pod as they delve into AI’s transformative role in higher education. Jason shares how he guides students to adopt a transparent, balanced approach to AI in learning and teaching, exploring AI’s vast potential alongside its complexities, from personalized instruction to responsible use. With hands-on insights from tools like ChatGPT, Claude,...

Ever wonder what it really takes for women to thrive in leadership roles? In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Bessolo and Dr. Carrie Mugridge unpack the hurdles many women encounter, such as imposter syndrome, the Queen Bee effect, and mansplaining, all inspired by Dr. Mugridge's doctoral research. Together, they go beyond just the challenges women face in the workplace, offering practical strategies to...

AI has more applications in higher education than you think! This week, AI expert Dr. Michelle Kassorla joins the podcast to share the reason why she integrated AI into all of her courses this academic year. From enhancing classroom instruction to challenging traditional pedagogy, her instructional approach is shaping the future of AI literacy. Want to know how AI is transforming the way students...

How prepared are you to handle a school crisis? This week on LinkedUp, authors Darcy Kraus and Geri Parscale discuss their latest book, " Navigating the Unexpected ", equipping school leaders with the tools and strategies to address trauma and crisis situations with compassion and clarity. With over 50 years of combined education experience, Darcy and Geri discuss the critical role trauma response...

Happy 150! In this milestone episode, Jamie and Jerri reflect on the remarkable conversations that have shaped LinkedUp. From cutting-edge innovations in education to in-depth conversations about AI, equity, leadership, and mental wellness, they're revisiting their favorite moments from the pod. This episode is not just a look back but a celebration of the incredible conversations that have ma...

AI is on everyone’s minds, but how are we thinking about AI? In this episode, Jamie and Jerri sit down with Michelle Ament of the Human Intelligence Movement to explore the growing necessity of rethinking our approach to artificial intelligence. Tune in as Michelle highlights three key goals in rethinking AI: raising awareness of the critical role human skills and mindsets play, encouraging commun...

This week, Jamie and Jerri welcome Kaylah Holland, author of " Putting Out Fires ", back to the pod to explore the critical world of crisis management in education. Together, they explore Kaylah's actionable strategies and real-life examples for making design-thinking practical and adaptable for educators and leaders alike. Tune in to learn how Kaylah uses proactive communication and...

In this special episode, Jamie and Jerri share a conversation from #ISTELIVE 2024 with Adam Bellow, founder of Breakout EDU. Together, they delve into the transformative impact of educational technology on classrooms. Join us as Adam shares how Breakout EDU turns traditional learning into an interactive, collaborative escape room experience, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills....

This week, legendary tech evangelist Guy Kawasaki joins the pod to discuss the key lessons of his new book “Think Remarkable.” Together, we’ll explore Guy’s experiences with growth, grit, and grace and how they’ve impacted his own mentorship journey. Embracing continuous learning, cultivating resilience, and leading with kindness are just a few lessons Guy shares with listeners as he emphasizes th...

This week, we're welcoming Ken Shelton and Dee Lanier to the pod to discuss their new book, "The Promises and Perils of AI in Education." Together, we'll explore AI's dual impact, from its potential to transform learning to the ethical implications of those transformations. Tune in to hear Ken and Dee's insights into leveraging AI to support educators and students while a...

AI in education isn't going anywhere soon—but how can educators utilize AI to effectively transform teaching and learning? AI expert Darren Coxon has the answer. This week, Darren joins the podcast to take listeners on a journey through the transformative impact of AI in education. From personalizing learning to making instructional content more engaging, the uses of AI in the classroom are en...

Before social media, there was education trendsetter and digital pioneer Barbara Bray. This week, Jerri and Jamie sit down with Barbara to discuss her upcoming book, plus her advice for finding your why. Tune in to hear story weaver, podcast host, and education coach extraordinaire Barbara share her take on finding your purpose using the Japanese concept of "Ikigai" or "reason for b...

The EduGuardians have landed! This week, we're welcoming the EduGuardians (@EduGuardian5)—a group of edtech trendsetters committed to ensuring technology is used effectively in classrooms to prepare students for their future. Joined by four of the five EduGuardians, Jerri and Jamie discuss how their mission is empowering educators to connect, share, and build community! United through a shared...

This week, Jamie and Jerri welcome special guests Kristina Ishmael and Greg Bagby to the pod to delve into the evolution of the National Education Technology Plan. Together, we'll discover how to move forward in the age of digital learning. Tune in to learn how this plan has transformed over time to meet the unique needs of today's learners. Kristina and Greg share their strategies for eff...

Award-winning superintendent, author, and education changemaker Glenn Robbins joins Jerri and Jamie this week to discuss his book Calm in the Chaos . Together, they delve into Glenn's insights for leaders seeking guidance in turbulent times. Based on the wisdom of Stoic principles, Glenn shares his experiences navigating challenges with resilience and composure. Tune in to learn more about the...