EduTechGuys

EduTechGuys

EduTechGuys is a high-intensity rollercoaster ride of super fun which takes mortal form in the two distinct entities which are David Henderson and Jeff Madlock. Crafted in the fires of Mt. Wannahockaluggie, these two self-proclaimed high priests of edtech first started navigating the world of educational technology on the web through a podcast, over a ravine in a rainstorm in 2015 (Sharkbait, ooh ha ha). Since then the two have traveled the nation bringing their joy for silly puns and more importantly sharing the journey of each educator they encounter.

  1. 3h ago

    Ignite Reading - Co-Founder & CEO Jessica Reid Sliwerski

    Reading intervention is failing too many kids because schools keep trying to solve a first-grade problem years too late. Jessica Reid Sliwerski, co-founder and CEO of Ignite Reading, shares the model she built to help students learn to read on time with one-to-one, daily, evidence-based support. As a lifelong educator who started in the Bronx and saw firsthand how inequity and poor reading instruction leave students behind, Jessica explains why the right intervention has to be precise, urgent, and built around the realities teachers face every day. She also breaks down how Ignite Reading pairs live tutors with adaptive tech, detailed formative data, and a simple 15- to 20-minute daily routine that fits inside the school day without overwhelming classroom teachers. You’ll discover: - Why so many schools misunderstand the science of reading- How Ignite Reading uses one-to-one tutoring to target exactly what each child needs- Why data should be translated for principals and district leaders, not buried in a dashboard- What it takes to train and certify tutors to a high bar- How the program supports teachers instead of adding to their workload Jessica also explains why Ignite Reading focuses on first grade, why “read by grade 3” can be dangerously late, and why the company will walk away from districts that are not truly committed to solving literacy gaps. It’s a candid look at what effective reading intervention actually requires, from classroom implementation to tutor quality to mission-driven leadership. Jessica Reid Sliwerski is the co-founder and CEO of Ignite Reading, a public benefit company focused on early literacy. A lifelong educator, she has worked in classrooms, school leadership, district support, and national curriculum reform, bringing deep experience in the science of reading and instructional design. Essential listening for teachers, principals, district leaders, and anyone who believes every child deserves the chance to become a confident reader on time. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    Ignite Reading - Co-Founder & CEO Jessica Reid Sliwerski
  2. Aug 4

    Don Wettrick - STARTedUP Foundation

    Real innovation begins when teachers and students stop just talking and start doing. Don Wettrick (STARTedUP Foundation) reveals how entrepreneurial thinking, AI, and real-world problem-solving are transforming high schools—and why most educators are just scratching the surface. In this candid conversation, Don shares why he stepped down from his CEO role to focus on inspiring teachers and students directly. He explains how the quality of student pitches has evolved—and how AI tools can both hype mediocrity and push talented students to even greater heights. Discover how students who once pitched imaginary ideas are now solving real problems, building companies, and even getting accepted into Y Combinator, all before graduation. You'll uncover:  - Why the best entrepreneurs are the ones who embrace rejection and keep trying  - How to differentiate between being busy and truly productive as a founder or educator  - The importance of storytelling in building momentum and community  - How grassroots movements and local partnerships accelerate change  - Why teacher support and school culture are critical to nurturing innovative habits This episode dives deep into the challenges and opportunities of modern education—showing that the future belongs to those willing to disrupt the factory model. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, parent, or student, you’ll learn practical ways to foster entrepreneurial spirit that prepares youth for careers as problem solvers, creators, and leaders. Don Wettrick is an education innovator and founder of the Started Up Foundation, known for creating high-impact programs that encourage students to see challenges as opportunities. His work has transformed classrooms nationwide, empowering young entrepreneurs to think bigger and act faster. Perfect for educators hungry to reimagine their classrooms, entrepreneurs seeking fresh talent, or anyone passionate about how real change happens—from the ground up. Listen now and discover how to turn social media sparks, startup challenges, and even AI hype into powerful opportunities for growth and impact. Will you lead the next wave of educational innovation? Tune in to find out. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    Don Wettrick - STARTedUP Foundation
  3. Jul 31

    Checking in on the HashTags!

    Most educators and tech enthusiasts overlook the hidden chaos brewing behind the scenes of our schools — and the stakes couldn’t be higher. From AI missteps to robot classroom aides gone wrong, this episode pulls back the curtain on the wild, unpredictable future of education technology. If you think the classroom chaos of today is intense, wait until you hear about the bizarre AI failures, educator burnout, and state-level battles over robotic teachers that could redefine how our kids learn or fail to learn in the coming years. In this episode, we uncover the latest buzz on AI policies sweeping across states like Ohio, where mandates force districts to develop formal AI guidelines. We explore shocking real-world AI mishaps, like students accidentally generating inappropriate images using school software, and discuss whether these are teachable moments or just headlines begging for regulation. You'll discover how the push for robotic tutors, like the humanoid avatars slated for high schools, is meeting fierce public and political pushback, revealing a deep unease with relying on machines for human interaction. But it’s not just about the tech; we break down the burnout epidemic racing through your schools, fueled by endless demands, staffing shortages, and the overwhelming responsibilities placed on teachers. You'll learn why districts are juggling special needs students without adequate support, why educator disillusionment is soaring, and what it all means for the future of classroom learning. Plus, get insights on how social media hashtags reveal a clear snapshot of the real trending issues—teacher burnout, AI missteps, and the ever-present fight over funding. Why does this matter? Because ignoring these warning signs risks creating a generation of students disconnected from their teachers, while over-reliance on AI and robots could erode the core human relationship integral to education. The broader landscape is shifting rapidly, with regulations, budgets, and tech innovations all vying for control. If you’re an educator, parent, or policymaker, understanding these behind-the-scenes threats and opportunities is your best shot at shaping a smarter, safer future for learning. This episode is essential listening for anyone passionate about education’s future—whether you’re in the classroom, a district leader, or simply curious about how technology will shape our schools. Join us as we explore the chaos, challenges, and opportunities lurking just beneath the surface of today’s education system. Don't miss the insights that could help you navigate, and perhaps even influence, the next era of teaching and learning. Visit: EduTechGuys.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    Checking in on the HashTags!
  4. Mar 5

    The Experience Gap: Rethinking the Modern Administrator

    In this episode of The EduTechGuys, we tackle the uncomfortable question echoing through faculty lounges across the country — what happens when the person in the principal’s office has barely spent time in a classroom?We break down the “fast-track phenomenon” driving inexperienced educators into administrative roles, from the nationwide leadership shortage to a policy shift that’s turned principals into operational managers rather than instructional leaders. Then we dig into why pedagogical diversity in leadership teams matters just as much as demographic diversity — and the real cost when it’s missing, from teacher burnout to a culture of compliance over connection.If you’re a teacher with your eye on administration, we’ve also got a few practical tips for making the leap with credibility and integrity — including how to diversify your classroom experience, build leadership without a title, and stay grounded in what actually works for kids long after you leave the classroom. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by Renaissance and IXL.  Learn more about Renaissance:   As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    The Experience Gap: Rethinking the Modern Administrator
5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

EduTechGuys is a high-intensity rollercoaster ride of super fun which takes mortal form in the two distinct entities which are David Henderson and Jeff Madlock. Crafted in the fires of Mt. Wannahockaluggie, these two self-proclaimed high priests of edtech first started navigating the world of educational technology on the web through a podcast, over a ravine in a rainstorm in 2015 (Sharkbait, ooh ha ha). Since then the two have traveled the nation bringing their joy for silly puns and more importantly sharing the journey of each educator they encounter.