Getting Smart Podcast

Getting Smart

This podcast has over 500 episodes highlighting developing trends in K-12 education, postsecondary and lifelong learning. Each week, Getting Smart team members interview students, leading authors, experts and practitioners in research, tech, entrepreneurship and leadership to bring listeners innovative and actionable strategies in education leadership. Be sure to also check out GettingSmart.com to stay on the cutting edge of innovations in learning.

  1. 1D AGO

    Is It Time to Recognize Childcare as a Public Right? | Elliot Haspel

    In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we sit down with Elliot Haspel, a nationally recognized child and family policy expert and author of Crawling Behind: America's Childcare Crisis and How to Fix It and Raising a Nation: 10 Reasons Why Every American Has a Stake in Childcare for All. Together, we explore why universal childcare is not just a family issue but a societal one, rooted in brain science, economic sustainability, and the moral imperative to support children and caregivers. Elliot shares actionable insights on how policymakers, educators, and community leaders can create a mixed-delivery childcare system that prioritizes accessibility, equity, and quality. This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of education, equity, and the well-being of families. Tune in to learn how we can collectively reimagine childcare as a public right. Outline (00:12) Introduction: Early Childhood Education and Personal Background (04:46) Defining Caregivers and the Importance of Early Years (11:11) Why Childcare Matters for Everyone (18:32) Hope and Progress in Childcare Policy (27:25) Building Public Will and Expanding the Constituency (38:17) Integrating Childcare into Society and Development (43:01) Childcare as a Right: Final Thoughts and Call to Action Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn Elliot Haspel Website Substack

    46 min

  2. NOV 26

    How Can Youth Participation Shape the Future? | UNICEF Foresight Fellows

    In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Mason Pashia dives into the critical importance of elevating youth voice and agency in shaping the future of education. Joined by Izumi Vasquez, a recent Harvard graduate and UNICEF Youth Foresight Fellow, alongside Caitlyn McCurn and Shai Naides of UNICEF, the conversation explores how young leaders are reimagining educational systems to be more equitable and inclusive. From addressing global education challenges to designing systems that prioritize student voice, this episode highlights the intersection of community investment, civic leadership, and innovative approaches to learning. Tune in to learn how empowering youth as co-creators can transform education and prepare learners for a rapidly changing world. Outline (00:00) Introduction: Youth Voice in Education (01:54) The Student Experience: Gaps in Support (06:34) UNICEF's Youth Foresight Fellowship (15:35) Building Confidence and Finding Voice (34:10) Global Skills for an Uncertain Future Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here LinkedIn | Izumi Vázquez LinkedIn | Shai Naides UNICEF USA Innocenti Child Rights Youth Foresight Report on Education 2025  Last Years State of the Children Report Shai Naides

    39 min

  3. NOV 21

    Catching Up: Early Reading, Cognitive Luxury, and Monarch Butterflies

    In the latest episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Nate McClennen and Mason Pashia dive into a dynamic mix of topics shaping the future of learning and beyond. From exploring early reading development and its ties to brain pathways, to addressing the ethical concerns around AI and student surveillance, this episode balances critical education insights with thought-provoking discussions. The hosts also delve into the concept of "cognitive luxury," emphasizing the importance of creating space for deep, free, and slow thinking in today's fast-paced world. Wrapping up with the awe-inspiring migration of monarch butterflies and their remarkable precision, this episode offers a unique blend of education, innovation, and human connection. Tune in to explore how these themes intersect and inspire a brighter future for learners everywhere. Outline (00:00) Youth Perspectives on AI and Surveillance (05:17) Early Reading Development and Brain Pathways (10:24) Gifted and Talented Programs: Rethinking Early Testing (16:06) Cognitive Luxury: Spaciousness, Agency, and Depth (24:55) YouTube as an Educational Ecosystem (36:15) Monarch Butterflies and Human Connection (42:08) The Art of Touch: Tearing Your Food Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Hechinger Report  More in Common  Builders Movement  Arthur Brooks - Love Your Enemies

    47 min

  4. NOV 19

    How Can We Build Equitable Mentorship Systems for Personalized Learning? | Polygence

    In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Shawnee Caruthers sits down with Jen Chow, co-founder and COO of Polygence, Rahul Patel, founder of Hypothesis to Hardware, and Zohra Khawaja, founder of Hearts Against Homelessness, to explore how equitable mentorship and personalized learning systems can empower students to thrive. The conversation delves into the transformative power of mentorship when it becomes more than just a "nice-to-have," highlighting how mentorship systems that prioritize student agency, critical thinking, and curiosity can create meaningful, scalable, and equitable learning opportunities. From the role of expert mentors to the integration of AI in education, this discussion emphasizes the importance of meeting learners where they are and creating pathways for all students to succeed—regardless of their circumstances. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of impact and actionable strategies for building mentorship systems that work for everyone. Outline (00:00) Introduction to the Getting Smart Podcast (06:05) The Impact of Personalized Learning (08:49) Zohra's Journey and the Future of Mentorship (24:38) Passion Projects and Student Agency (29:47) Overcoming Challenges and Accessibility (36:16) Recognition, Impact, and Closing Thoughts Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Polygence Hearts Against Homelessness Hypothesis to Hardware LinkedIn | Zohra Khawaja LinkedIn | Rahul Patel LinkedIn | Jin Chow

    45 min

  5. NOV 14

    How Can Educators Teach Students to Use AI Ethically and Responsibly? | Douglas Fisher

    In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Dr. Doug Fisher to discuss the new book, Teaching Students to Use AI Ethically and Responsibly. Together, they explore the critical need for AI literacy in schools and how educators can teach about, for, and with AI to prepare students for a computational future. Dr. Fisher emphasizes the importance of fostering curiosity, ethical decision-making, and data literacy while sharing practical examples of how schools can integrate AI into classrooms. This conversation is a must-listen for educators and leaders looking to embrace the opportunities and challenges of AI in education. Tune in to learn how we can empower future-ready students to navigate the world of AI responsibly. Outline (00:00) Introduction: The Explosion of Knowledge and AI in Education (05:21) Collaborative Writing and the Book's Framework (17:39) Teaching For AI: Essential Skills for Students (22:11) Teaching With AI: Practical Applications and Quests (28:17) Future of AI in Education: Simulations and Advice for Leaders Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here Teaching Students to Use AI Ethically & Responsibly LinkedIn

    32 min

  6. NOV 12

    How Can We Transform Education to Focus on Real Learning? | Pam Moran, Liz Calvert, and Ira Socol

    In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Rebecca Midles sits down with Pam Moran, Ira David Socol, and Liz Calvert to explore how educational leaders are transforming traditional teaching and assessment into meaningful, student-centered learning experiences. Drawing from their new book, Real Learning, Real Accomplishment, the conversation dives into the power of mastery learning, systemic change, and fostering student and teacher agency. With insights from innovative schools across Kentucky, Virginia, Illinois, and Nevada, this episode highlights the strategies and belief shifts necessary to create lasting, impactful educational transformation. Tune in to learn how educators and leaders can embrace risk, reimagine grading systems, and prioritize real-world learning to empower every student to succeed. Outline (00:00) Introduction: The Journey to Real Learning (01:52) Shifting from Achievement to Accomplishment (08:37) Systems Change and Misconceptions About Leadership (14:35) Building Teacher Agency Through Vulnerability (21:52) Embracing Mistakes as Learning Opportunities (28:48) The Moral Obligation: Transforming Grades and Assessment Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn | Liz Calvert LinkedIn | Ira David Socol LinkedIn | Pamela Moran Real Learning, Real Accomplishment

    36 min

  7. NOV 7

    How Can Anyone Become an Innovator in a Rapidly Changing World? | Tessa Forshaw & Rich Braden

    On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark sits down with Dr. Tessa Forshaw and Rich Braden, authors of Innovation-ish: How Anyone Can Create Breakthrough Solutions to Real Problems in the Real World. They explore how innovation mindsets, creative problem-solving, and AI as a co-intelligence tool can empower anyone to tackle complex challenges. Drawing from their experiences at Stanford's d.school and Harvard, Tessa and Rich break down the frameworks, mindset shifts, and practical moves that make innovation accessible to everyone. Whether you're a leader, educator, or simply curious about the future of work and learning, this conversation will inspire you to embrace your inner innovator. Outline (00:00) Introduction: The Age of Innovation (04:32) The AI Inflection Point (08:19) Understanding Innovation Mindsets (12:14) Applying Mindsets in Teams (15:37) Innovation Moves: Beyond Rigid Frameworks (20:09) Activating Through Metacognition Links Watch the full video here Read the full blog here LinkedIn | Tessa Forshaw LinkedIn | Rich Braden Innovationish

    36 min

  8. NOV 5

    How Can Foundations Transform High Schools for Equity and Future-Ready Learning? | Jenny Curtin

    On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Jenny Curtin, Director of Education at the Barr Foundation, shares her insights on reimagining high schools to create equitable, future-ready opportunities for all students. Jenny discusses her work leading transformative education initiatives across New England, including designing new high school models, investing in educators, and building public will for systemic change. She emphasizes the importance of listening to students, addressing systemic inequities, and ensuring that every learner has access to meaningful experiences that prepare them for life beyond high school. From the challenges of shifting entrenched mindsets to the opportunities created through collaborative, student-centered design, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about transforming education systems for the better. Outline (00:00) Introduction and Background (05:01) Early Career Experiences and Challenges (09:24) Barr Foundation's Three Strategic Areas (14:36) Defining Success and Student Thriving (19:55) System-Level Change and Internal Coherence (25:06) Lessons Learned and Future Direction Links Read the full blog here Watch the full video here The Barr Foundation LinkedIn Indicators of School Quality From Input to Impact: Student Voice in High School Transformation Poll Results Inform Shared Vision for High School Excellence

    30 min
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4.6
out of 5
54 Ratings

About

This podcast has over 500 episodes highlighting developing trends in K-12 education, postsecondary and lifelong learning. Each week, Getting Smart team members interview students, leading authors, experts and practitioners in research, tech, entrepreneurship and leadership to bring listeners innovative and actionable strategies in education leadership. Be sure to also check out GettingSmart.com to stay on the cutting edge of innovations in learning.

Information

  • Creator
    Getting Smart
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2025
  • Episodes
    499
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Getting Smart Podcast

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