Getting Smart Podcast

Carlos Moreno, co-director of Big Picture Learning and founder of Leadership Journeys, discusses the transformative power of love, care, and vulnerability in education. He shares heartfelt stories on the importance of emotional intelligence and mentorship, advocating for a human-centered approach in leadership. The conversation highlights building trust and the significance of authentic relationships between educators and students. Moreno emphasizes the need for community-focused leadership to redefine success and create supportive learning environments.

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Rebecca Midles delves into the essential competencies of modern-day leadership with Laura Hilger, Senior Director of Teaching and Learning at KnowledgeWorks. Joined by Carmen Coleman and Estrada, the conversation explores the development and impact of the Lead for Learners Network and the Portrait of a Leader. These initiatives aim to guide educational leaders towards sustainable change through personalized, competency-based learning. Discover how collaborative processes and strategic leadership development can drive transformation in educational systems, ensuring leaders are equipped to foster equitable, learner-centered environments. Tune in to learn about upcoming opportunities and insights into building robust leadership pipelines. Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Getting Smart Podcast (02:36) Overview of the Lead for Learners Network (04:46) Development of the Portrait of a Leader (07:49) Collaborative Process Behind the Portrait (10:58) Impact and Implementation in Local Contexts (14:23) Sustainable Change and Leadership Development (20:37) Reflective Practice and Professional Learning (22:07) Upcoming Events and Opportunities Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Laura Hilger LinkedIn KnowledgeWorks Laura Hilger X KnowledgeWorks Youtube Lead for Learners Portrait of a Leader Aurora Institute

Mason and Nate discuss the innovative transformation of dead malls into community hubs, highlighting the importance of connection in a tech-driven world. They explore the evolving role of media literacy amid information overload and the implications of a new executive order on AI in education. The decline of public school enrollment sparks a conversation about repurposing school facilities. They also share cultural insights from Ireland, emphasizing the significance of poetry and music in fostering community. Challenges in early education are addressed with a call for collaborative solutions.

Kathleen DeLaski, author of 'Who Needs College Anymore?', dives into the shifting landscape of higher education. She challenges the necessity of a traditional college degree, advocating for alternatives like apprenticeships and dual enrollment. DeLaski highlights the impact of the Great Recession and AI on educational values and job readiness. The conversation explores how practical experience is becoming the key to career advancement, suggesting that four-year degrees may not be the only path to success in today's world.

Will Richardson, co-founder of The Big Questions Institute, dives into the evolving role of education amidst global challenges. He emphasizes the urgent need to repair human and ecological relationships. Discussion includes preparing students emotionally and spiritually for uncertainty and fostering a mindset of curiosity. Richardson critiques traditional education models, advocating for a shift towards community engagement and collective responsibility. This conversation invites educators to reimagine learning as a means of resilience and hope in chaotic times.

Sara Schapiro, the Director of the Alliance for Learning Innovation, dives into the need for increased research and development in education. She discusses the stark underfunding compared to healthcare and the role of federal and state support in fostering innovation. Schapiro highlights the importance of interoperable data systems and evidence-based practices. With insights on venture capital's impact on EdTech, she urges collaboration among educators, policymakers, and parents to advocate for stronger R&D, ensuring every student thrives in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Explore how AI is transforming educational environments and enhancing team efficiency. Discover New Zealand's innovative competency-based education and the value of micro-credentialing. The discussion also highlights the importance of community-driven learning and the unique technological adoption lessons from the Amish. Delve into the challenges of navigating information overload in the AI era and the crucial role of human connections amidst rapid technological changes. This engaging dialogue provides valuable insights for educators and lifelong learners.

Isabelle Hau, Executive Director of the Stanford Accelerator for Learning and author of Love to Learn, discusses the transformative power of relational intelligence in education. She emphasizes the shift from traditional metrics like GPA to focusing on emotional connections and social-emotional learning. Hau addresses the growing 'relational crisis' influenced by technology, urging awareness of 'technoference.' She highlights micro schools as innovative solutions that foster personalized learning and community engagement, enhancing the overall educational experience.

Don Wettrick, CEO of the StartEdUp Foundation, champions entrepreneurial education by transforming high school students into proactive problem solvers. He discusses leveraging AI to enhance opportunity recognition and design thinking skills. Wettrick emphasizes entrepreneurship as a universal skill set useful across various careers. He highlights the Innovate Within pitch competition, which encourages tackling real-world problems and the creation of innovation hubs in schools. His insights inspire young entrepreneurs to engage in meaningful challenges and foster community connections.

The hosts dive into the exciting intersection of AI and education, exploring how tech can create personalized music and reshape learning experiences. They discuss the paradox of rising unemployment in tech despite claims of labor shortages and emphasize competency-based education for lifelong learners. The conversation features humorous insights on abundance in EdTech, while stressing the need for human connections amidst digital innovation. Ultimately, they advocate for a transformative approach to education that values experience over grades.