Catching Up: Ambient AI, Alpha School, and The Educator of the Future

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen sits down with Matt Bowman, co-founder of Open Ed, to explore how unbundled learning and personalized education are transforming the future of learning. They discuss Open Ed’s innovative approach to blending public and private education systems, the role of competency-based learning, and how families can become education designers for their children. The conversation also dives into the impact of AI on education and how it’s driving demand for flexible, learner-centered ecosystems. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or policymaker, this episode offers actionable insights into creating personalized pathways for every learner. Outline (00:00) Rethinking the System (03:39) Creative Learning Experiences (13:57) Open Ed’s Model (20:36) Accountability and Competency (27:07) Who Is Open Ed For? (33:41) The Future: AI, Community, and Connection Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Matt Bowman's Books OpenEd  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Dr. Isaac Agbeshie-Noye, Program Director for Widening Pathways at the SHRM Foundation. They discuss the concept of a skills-first future and how it can unlock potential and economic mobility through inclusive hiring practices. The conversation highlights the importance of aligning skills with workforce needs, the role of AI in shaping employment, and the value of collaboration between employers, schools, and training providers. Tune in to learn about the strategies and tools driving a more equitable and skills-focused workforce. Outline (00:00) Introduction to Skills First Future (05:36) Understanding the Skills First Approach (09:59) Barriers to Skills-Based Hiring (14:38) Digital Infrastructure and Ecosystem Solutions (19:27) Impact of AI on the Future of Work (27:46) Next Steps and Future Initiatives Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn SHRM Skills First Future

In this episode of Catching Up, Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia dive into the latest innovations shaping the future of learning. From Alpha School’s groundbreaking two-hour AI-driven learning model to the rise of ambient AI that integrates seamlessly into our everyday lives, this conversation explores the intersection of technology, education, and human connection. They also reflect on the importance of relational intelligence in schools, the role of real-world learning during the remaining six hours of a student’s day, and the growing significance of personalized and competency-based education. Tune in for thought-provoking insights and actionable ideas to reimagine education for a future-ready world. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Episode Overview (05:46) Discussion on AI Companionship and Connection (11:38) Updates on Educational Initiatives (17:25) Alpha School and Two-Hour Learning Day (29:44) Ambient AI and Learning Assessment (35:30) Day in the Life of an Educator 2040 (42:51) Uniquely Human Experiences and Closing (48:12) What's That Song? Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here What happens when AI chatbots replace real human connection? American Friendship Project Boosties Tylenol, Autism and the Perils of Basic-Level Literacy 7 insights about Chronic Absenteeism Transcend: The Relationship Between Student Experiences and Outcomes COVID Worsened Long Decline in 12th-Graders’ Reading, Math Skills A Day in the Life of an Educator 2040 USC Rossier Master of Education  

In this podcast episode, leaders Virgel Hammonds and Beth Rabbitt discuss how FullScale is accelerating competency-based and personalized learning by aligning practice, policy, people, and progress. By adopting a Co-CEO leadership model, they emphasize the power of collaboration, distributed leadership, and bold accountability to drive systemic change. This episode dives into the importance of coherence across education systems and the role of Full Scale in creating tools, evidence, and partnerships to empower learners and educators. Tune in to explore how this unification aims to reimagine education at scale! Outline (00:00) Introduction and Personal Interests (04:32) The Vision Behind the Merger (08:37) Full Scale’s Ambitious Goals (11:52) Co-CEO Leadership Model (20:09) Accelerating Growth in Competency-Based Learning (25:22) The Future of the Annual Symposium (34:13) Closing Thoughts and Call to Action Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Beth Rabbitt LinkedIn Virgel Hammonds LinkedIn FullScale FullScale Symposium

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Mason Pashia sits down with David McCullough III, co-founder of the American Exchange Project, to explore how domestic student exchanges can foster empathy, bridge cultural divides, and build lifelong curiosity. Learn how this innovative program connects high school students across the U.S., encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new perspectives, and contribute to their communities. Tune in to hear about the transformative power of travel, the origins of the program, and its vision for creating a more united and empathetic future Outline (00:00) Introduction and Background (04:31) Origins of the American Exchange Project (08:35) History of Exchange Programs (16:41) Current State of American Exchange Project (21:58) Program Structure and Activities (34:12) Future Growth and Vision Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here American Exchange Project LinkedIn

On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Rebecca Midles sits down with Dr. Bill Nicely, Educator in Residence at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, to explore how cross-state, cross-sector collaboration in Kansas City is transforming education. They discuss the Real World Learning Initiative, the importance of market value assets for students, and how partnerships between urban, suburban, and rural districts are creating equitable opportunities. Tune in to learn how this innovative approach is preparing students for the future of work and fostering systemic change in education. Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Podcast (03:39) Collaboration During the Pandemic (07:12) Challenges and Successes in Cross-State Collaboration (11:38) The Role of Business Partnerships (18:54) Measuring Success and Quality (25:44) Future Trends in Education Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation  

Join us on this week’s Getting Smart Podcast as we sit down with Sangeet Paul Choudary, author of Reshuffle: Who Wins When AI Attacks the Knowledge Economy. Together with Tom Vander Ark, Sangeet explores the profound reshuffling of markets, education, and talent development in the age of AI. Discover how the value creation chain—curiosity, curation, and judgment—is shifting and why reimagining systems around AI as an engine, rather than a tool, is the key to thriving in the future. Tune in to unlock insights into coordination, innovation, and the possibilities of AI-driven ecosystems. Listen now! Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Great Reshuffling (04:55) Curiosity, Curation, and Judgment (15:38) AI as a Tool vs. AI as an Engine (23:14) Coordination and the Future of AI Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn Reshuffle Platform Thinking Labs First Getting Smart Podcast Appearance Sangeet Substack  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen and Hayley Spira-Bauer explore the transformative potential of AI, media literacy, and personalized learning in reshaping education. The lively conversation discusses how generative AI can reduce teacher workloads, foster high-agency classrooms, and create opportunities for meaningful human connections. The conversation also dives into the importance of media literacy as a core skill for navigating today’s digital landscape, empowering students to critically evaluate information and thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Tune in to discover actionable insights on building innovative, student-centered learning ecosystems and preparing learners for the future. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Guest Introduction (01:50) AI's Impact on Teacher Workload (03:41) Increasing Human Connection and Learning Ecosystems (10:23) Reimagining Cross-Curricular Teaching (14:27) Student Agency and Self-Directed Learning (31:49) The Role of Content Knowledge and Skills Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Hayley Spira-Bauer Website LinkedIn Fullmind Learning Can't Wait Podcast  

In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia explore key topics shaping education today, from the varying start dates of schools across the U.S. to the global progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They dive into data on teacher shortages, discussing challenges with retention and exploring innovative solutions like rethinking educator models. The conversation also touches on the neuroscience of adolescent identity formation, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for healthy risk-taking and personal growth in schools. Tune in to hear insights on how schools can address current challenges while fostering connection, curiosity, and purpose among learners. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Agenda (04:02) Global Goals and School Meals Progress (07:40) Public School Perception Survey Results (12:48) Teacher Shortage Data and Analysis (17:36) Rethinking Teacher Models (27:28) Identity Formation and Adolescent Development (37:23) Human Expression and Connection (42:47) What's That Song? Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here When Do Kids Go Back to School? Exclusive Poll: As Support for Schools Plummets, Americans Resist Closing Education Department Reading for Fun: Student Experiences How an Indiana District Puts a Premium on Teacher Autonomy Overview of Teacher Shortages How Can We Keep Teachers Teaching? State of the American Teacher Survey The Teaching Model That’s Keeping Educators in Schools The Great Simplification Podcast: Taylor Guthrie Sand Talk: Indigenous Thinking in a World That’s Lost Its Way Mile-Long Table in Denver Seats Thousands of Strangers to Eat and Celebrate Community Introducing Kestrel and Other Songs  

Join us on the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast as Rebecca Midles sits down with Dr. Dave Richards, Executive Director of the Future Learning Council. Together, they explore how Michigan’s coalition of school districts and ISDs is driving statewide transformation through personalized learning and competency-based education. Discover how member-driven networks are fostering collaboration, scaling innovation, and creating flexible, learner-centered systems. From micro-schools to professional development tools, this episode dives deep into the future of education. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about empowering communities and reimagining learning for all students! Outline (00:12) Introduction and Podcast Overview (04:14) Meeting Dave Richards (08:28) Building the Future Learning Council (16:24) Supporting Rural Schools (20:10) Professional Development Resources (23:59) Future Vision and Innovation Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn Future Of Learning Council Michigan Virtual