SMILE Factor

In this  Back to School  episode of  SMILEFactor , we dive into the energy, ideas, and inspiration that set the tone for a successful new school year. From fresh strategies to strengthen school culture, to innovative ways educators can spark engagement from day one, this conversation is all about starting strong. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, building leader, or district administrator, you’l...

Welcome back to SMILEFactor! Season 3 is here, and I couldn’t be more excited. Over the past two seasons, we’ve shared stories, strategies, and sparks of inspiration that remind us why joy and connection matter in education and leadership. This season, we’re taking it up a notch, bringing in fresh voices, powerful conversations, and real-world lessons that will leave you smiling, thinking, and rea...

In this heartwarming episode, Matt and Laurie sit down with Christine Devane, a former second grade teacher who spent 13 joyful years inspiring young readers. Christine shares how reading aloud became a cornerstone of her classroom culture, creating magical moments with her students through stories. We dive into her passion for children’s literature and talk about her own book,  Elephant Beach —a...

In this episode of the  SMILEFactor  podcast, Laurie and Matt sit down to unpack their biggest takeaways from ISTE. From hallway conversations that sparked fresh ideas to sessions that reignited their passion for teaching and leading, they reflect on the moments that mattered most. Hear about the inspiring voices they connected with, the tech tools that stood out, and the power of community that m...

In this episode of the SMILEFactor Podcast, Matt and Laurie welcome the always insightful and entertaining Carl Hooker to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping both adult and student learning. From real-world classroom examples to big-picture shifts in professional development, we discuss the practical ways AI is making an impact right now. Tune in for laughs, lightbulb moments, and a f...

SMILEFactor Podcast – AI in Action: Real Talk, Real Impact In this episode of  SMILEFactor , Matt and Laurie dive into the evolving world of Artificial Intelligence in education—not just the buzzwords, but the real, practical ways AI is showing up in classrooms and leadership spaces. From creating AI guidelines that support responsible use to piloting tools that enhance learning, they share how th...

In this episode, Matt and Laurie are gearing up for ISTE 2025! Tune in as they share their excitement, reveal their session topics, and give you the inside scoop on where and when to find them throughout the conference. From innovative leadership to creative classroom tech, they’re ready to bring the energy, insights, and maybe a few surprises. Whether you're attending ISTE or following along...

In this episode of  SMILEFactor , Laurie and Matt dive into something we all need but often avoid: unplugging. With devices buzzing, notifications pinging, and calendars packed, it can feel impossible to hit pause. But what if disconnecting is actually the secret to reconnecting with ourselves, our purpose, and the people around us? Tune in as we explore the power of logging off to recharge. We’ll...

Laurie and Matt are thrilled to dive into the new book from X-Factor EDU   Impact Standards: Designing District Systems That Power K–12 Learning , a transformative new book by veteran educator and digital learning expert Jeffrey D. Bradbury.

In this episode of  SMILEFactor , we step outside the traditional classroom and into a world of experiential learning. Join us as we explore how nature, community spaces, and even simple low-tech and high-tech tools can transform education. From outdoor science explorations and mindfulness walks to using mobile devices for digital storytelling and leveraging simple tools like journals and sketch p...

Join Laurie and Matt as they sit down with the inspiring Dr. Marialice B.F.X. Curran for a powerful conversation on digital wellness and the critical importance of mental health awareness in today’s connected world. In this episode, we also reflect on the incredible people who have supported us along our personal and professional journeys, including @JenWomble, @JaimeDonally, @ElliePrimary1, @Same...

In this episode, Laurie and Matt dive into the importance of digital wellness for students and Matt introduces his new children’s book,  Digital Explorers . Join us as we discuss how young learners can build healthy tech habits, navigate the digital world with confidence, and become thoughtful digital citizens. Packed with insights for educators, parents, and tech-loving kids alike, this conversat...

In this episode of  SMILE Learning , we dive into what it truly means to build future-focused teams in today's ever-evolving educational and professional landscapes. It’s not just about chasing trends — it’s about designing cultures that anticipate change, embrace innovation, and empower every member to lead forward. Join us as we explore practical strategies to create teams that are adaptable...

In this episode, we dive into the growing need for clear and thoughtful AI guidelines in K–12 education. Join us as we explore how districts can approach AI with purpose, ensuring innovation aligns with instructional goals, equity, and student safety. Whether you're just beginning or refining your policy, this conversation offers practical insights and steps to move your district forward with...

In this episode of  SMILEFactor , Clement Townsend joins us to share how  Video Pro Learning  is revolutionizing classroom engagement. Discover how teachers can turn traditional assignments into student-created video projects that boost motivation, creativity, and retention—all without changing their curriculum. With built-in support and minimal tech skills required, this tool helps students devel...

Join us for a fun, inspiring, and idea-packed episode as we sit down with educator, innovator, and LEGO enthusiast Dan Thomas to talk about the power of play in schools, the magic of design thinking, and how tiny bricks can build big learning moments. From sparking creativity to boosting student agency, Dan shares how integrating play and purposeful design can transform classrooms into innovation...

In this episode of  SMILEFactor , we explore how thoughtful planning fuels innovation and drives meaningful impact in education. Discover how being intentional in your approach can spark creativity, foster collaboration, and lead to lasting change. Tune in for actionable insights that help you lead with purpose and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

In this laid-back episode of  SMILEFactor , we hit pause on the scripts and dive into a real conversation about what’s happening right now in the world of educational technology and learning. From emerging tools and AI in the classroom to professional development trends and the ever-evolving role of educators, we’re unpacking what’s working, what’s changing, and what’s coming next. Whether you’re...

Part 2 with Heather Brown and Deann Poleon. We dive into bias in education, more women educators on the “main stage” and as always, “What is your SMILEFactor for the week?”

For this episode of  SMILEFactor , we are excited to highlight the impactful work of two incredible leaders in education—Heather Brown and Deann Poleon. Together, they are driving meaningful change in the field of educational technology and empowering educators to innovate and create engaging learning environments. Join us as Heather and Deann share their experiences, strategies, and insights on f...

In this episode of SMILEFactor, we dive into the power of  play-based learning  with none other than Adam Bellow, co-founder of BreakoutEDU and a visionary in educational innovation. We explore how immersive, game-based experiences can transform student engagement, boost problem-solving skills, and foster collaboration in the classroom. Adam shares insights into the origins of BreakoutEDU, how pla...

In this episode of  SMILEFactor , we to explore the power of  play in education. From sparking creativity to fostering collaboration, play is more than just fun—it’s a vital part of student learning and development. Discover how incorporating play into classrooms enhances discovery learning, problem-solving, and communication skills. Tune in for insights, strategies, and a reminder that sometimes,...

In this episode, we dive into the world of early learning and leadership with Dr. Erin Alexander. From the importance of foundational education to strategies for empowering young learners and educators, Dr. Alexander shares her insights on creating impactful learning experiences. Tune in for an engaging conversation on how early education shapes future leaders! ⁠Shownotes

Effective communication is a two-way street, requiring schools to be proactive in reaching out and families to stay engaged. Digital tools, regular meetings, and open dialogue help create an environment where students can thrive. As a teacher and parent of five children, Donna Maccaroni has written an exceptionally insightful book about the impact of the connection between home and school. Have a...

In this episode of  SMILEFactor , we dive into  Design Thinking —a powerful, human-centered approach to problem-solving that fosters creativity, collaboration, and innovation. Whether you're an educator, leader, or lifelong learner, design thinking provides a structured way to tackle challenges while keeping students and stakeholders at the heart of the process. We'll explore: ✅ What desi...