Global Career Tech Education Podcast: Hosted by Sylvester Chisom

Sylvester Chisom

The #1 Career Tech Education Podcast! We want to wrap a blanket of good will and support around the career tech education community. We interview rockstar career and tech education directors, teachers, & innovators to uncover best practices and insights. We also highlight industry professionals to offer a real world perspective that will lead to preparing career tech education students for success in the global marketplace.

  1. Digital Storytelling: Amplifying Student Voices Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.71

    OCT 1

    Digital Storytelling: Amplifying Student Voices Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.71

    Digital Storytelling: Amplifying Student Voices Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.71 In Episode 71 of the Global CTE Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom interviews Dr. Sequoyah Wharton, an award-winning educator, media literacy advocate, and Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow. Together they explore how digital storytelling amplifies student voices, the lessons global and indigenous perspectives bring to education, and why media literacy is essential for the future. Dr. Wharton also shares his vision for CTE, highlighting adaptability, creativity, and respect for the trades in an AI-driven world.Topics Covered: Digital storytelling empowers student voice Media literacy as essential skill Global and indigenous learning perspectives Partnerships and cross-sector collaboration Future of CTE in AI Dr. Sequoyah Wharton Bio:Dr. Sequoyah Wharton is an award-winning educator, media literacy advocate, and digital storytelling innovator. He teaches Digital Filmmaking, Broadcast Journalism, and Visual Arts in New York, and serves as an adjunct professor at several universities where he focuses on adolescent art education and creative media pedagogy. Dr. Wharton is the Executive Director of the Empowering Global Educators Foundation, a PBS Student Reporting Labs Teacher Ambassador, and a 2025-2026 Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow placed on Capitol Hill. His work blends creativity, equity, and global citizenship, empowering students to use storytelling as a tool for social impact.

    43 min
  2. Beyond the Scoreboard: From Classroom to Digital Media Career Global CTE Podcast Ep 70 Interview

    AUG 27

    Beyond the Scoreboard: From Classroom to Digital Media Career Global CTE Podcast Ep 70 Interview

    Beyond the Scoreboard: From Classroom to Digital Media Career - Global CTE Podcast Ep 70 Interview On Episode 70 of the Global CTE Podcast, our host Sylvester Chisom sits down with special guest Don Goble, a nationally recognized educator and media innovator. Don shares how he transformed his classroom into a hub for digital storytelling, sports media, and real world career pathways, opening doors for students from all backgrounds. Together they explore how DS Academy is helping schools nationwide prepare the next generation to thrive in a media driven world. Topics Covered:1. Creating a Media Program That Inspires Students2. Media Skills Transfer to Every Industry3. Celebrating Everyone, Not Just Athletes4. From YouTube to Friday Night Lights5. Advice for Teachers Without Media BackgroundsDon Goble Bio: Don Goble is a nationally recognized educator and media innovator with decades of experience in teaching, storytelling, and digital production. As the creator of the DS Academy curriculum, Don transformed his high school classroom into a thriving hub of creativity and collaboration, where students produced professional-grade broadcasts, documentaries, animations, and live scoreboard operations. His visionary approach empowered students of all backgrounds to explore careers in journalism, film, sports media, and digital branding. Don’s curriculum has now been adopted by schools nationwide through Digital Scoreboards. Built on inclusivity and real-world application, DS Academy helps students develop technical skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Don’s legacy is one of impact, innovation, and opportunity, opening doors for students to tell their stories and shape the future of media.

    46 min
  3. Building Africa’s Workforce of Tomorrow: How STEM and AI are Creating Future-Ready Jobs for African Youth-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep 69 w/Sally Kimangu

    JUL 29

    Building Africa’s Workforce of Tomorrow: How STEM and AI are Creating Future-Ready Jobs for African Youth-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep 69 w/Sally Kimangu

    Building Africa’s Workforce of Tomorrow: How STEM and AI are Creating Future-Ready Jobs for African Youth Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep 69 w/Sally KimanguIn this powerful episode, we sit down with Sally Kimangu, widely known as Africa’s STEM Queen to explore how she's preparing youth across the continent for the jobs of the future. From robotics for 5-year-olds to AI boot camps for adults, Sally is building an ecosystem where technology meets purpose. Her mission is bold: create 1,000 jobs every year by equipping Africans with the tools, skills, and mindset to lead in a global innovation economy. Topics Covered: Empowering Africa’s Youth to Lead the Future of Work Rebranding TVET (CTE) In Africa: Making Tech + Trades Cool Again From Silent to Skilled: A 6-Week Student Transformation Story Africa Must Be the Author of Its AI Future AI in Africa's Education: A Curriculum Revolution Begins The Future of CTE: Every Skill, Tech-Enabled Sally Kimangu Bio: Today’s guest is Ms. Kim, widely known as the  “Africa STEM Queen” for her tireless work creating access to technology, innovation, and leadership opportunities for Africa’s next generation. She is the founder and CEO of DI Africa (Destination Imagination Africa), an organization dedicated to preparing African youth for the jobs of the future with a focus on STEM education, AI literacy, and global workforce skills. Through DI Africa, Ms. Kim is on a mission to break down systemic barriers and empower young people, especially in underrepresented communities, to thrive in emerging industries. Her work extends beyond just education it’s about economic mobility, job creation, and positioning Africa’s youth to not just participate in the future of work, but to lead it. She is especially passionate about building AI capacity in Botswana and across the continent, ensuring that African innovation is at the forefront of global tech conversations. You can learn more about her work at di4africa.org

    41 min
  4. CTE The Hook Urban Education Needs-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.68

    JUL 9

    CTE The Hook Urban Education Needs-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.68

    CTE The Hook Urban Education Needs-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.68In episode 68 of the Global Career Tech Education Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom sits down with Troy Long, a 20-year CTE leader and author of The CTE Experience. Troy shares how he’s building innovative programs, securing AI education grants, and changing the narrative around college and career readiness. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about empowering students through real-world learning. Topics -Troy’s origin story and pathway from business teacher to CTE leader -Winning the NJDOE Artificial Intelligence Innovation in Education Grant -Integrating AI tools and robotics like Boston Dynamics’ Spot into CTE -Strategies from Troy's New Book on CTE -CTE as a driver for upward economic mobility and skilled trade entrepreneurship -Strategies for promoting and elevating the message of CTE nationwide Troy Long Bio: Today’s guest Troy Long is the Director of CTE & Grants Administration for Mercer County Technical Schools in New Jersey. Troy is a 20-year CTE veteran and author of The CTE Experience. Troy has led as a teacher, vice principal, and program developer, working with the NJ Department of Education and industry partners to build innovative CTE pathways. He recently secured a state grant to expand AI-focused CTE programs and is passionate about helping students find non-traditional paths to success. Welcome to the show, Troy Long!

    28 min
  5. Leading with the Mindset of Possibilities - Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.67 w/ Erika Twani & Dani Bedoni

    JUN 24

    Leading with the Mindset of Possibilities - Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.67 w/ Erika Twani & Dani Bedoni

    Leading with the Mindset of Possibilities - Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.67 w/ Erika Twani & Dani Bedoni What happens when two global leaders in education and coaching join forces to redefine how we lead, learn, and grow? In this powerful episode, Erika Twani and Dani Bedoni share how their Mindset of Possibilities system is helping educators and students develop autonomy, adaptability, and future-ready leadership powered by AI and human connection. From rural classrooms to global stages, this conversation is a masterclass in unlocking potential at every level. Topics Covered: The 3 Intelligences Students Need for the FutureThe Student Who Changed EverythingFuture-Ready Students Use AI to Launch Real-World IdeasThe 4 Principles of Future-Ready LeadershipA Smarter Way to Bring AI Into Schools Erika Twani & Dani Bedoni Bios: Erika Twani, is a best-selling author, TEDx speaker, social entrepreneur, and Fortune 100 corporate veteran, she is driven by a deep passion for personalized education. With over 30 years of experience in the education technology industry, Erika has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of personalized education in students’ lives. This passion led her to join education experts in founding the Learning One to One Foundation in 2011, where she serves as CEO. Erika's expertise is widely recognized, and she is a sought-after speaker at national and international conferences on learning innovation, educational technology, and AI. Dani Bedoni is a distinguished Master Coach with over 30 years of experience. She has guided hundreds of leaders toward a mindset of possibilities. Renowned for identifying individual strengths, fostering growth, and offering transformative strategies for change, reinvention, and success, Dani helps leaders achieve the desired future self with clarity and purpose. Combined the two of them coach in 6 languages.

    50 min
  6. Human Centered Design In Education-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep. 66

    JUN 3

    Human Centered Design In Education-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep. 66

    Human Centered Design In Education-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep. 66 In Episode 66 of the Global CTE Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom speaks with Sandra Vilevac, a human-centered designer and STEM advocate, about how empathy, ethics, and creativity can reshape the way we implement AI and design curriculum in education. Sandra shares insights from her work with NASA, introduces practical tools like the Integrity Tool, and emphasizes the importance of aligning learning with real-world skills and community needs. Together, they explore how educators can prepare students for future careers by fostering inclusive, innovative, and human-centered learning environments. Topics Covered: -The Power of Empathy in Education and Innovation -Teaching Skills, Not Just Content at NASA -From Rural Towns to the Moon: Building Local Economies for Space -The Case for Human-Centered AI Implementation -Human-Centered AI Projects Start With Student Voice Sandra Vilevac Bio:  Sandra Vilevac is the founder of Glucose Design Studios and a consultant for human-centered design. She is passionate about the intersection of art and health in fostering community. Her career has enabled her to serve as an educator, design thinker, and technology developer. Currently, she is exploring human-centric strategies for youth and education. With over ten years of experience in STEM contributing with an artist mindset, she has witnessed the vast opportunities available for individuals from all backgrounds and training. Advocating for manufacturing, trades, and non-college pathways in STEM, she recognizes that creating a brighter future to tackle our world's complex challenges demands diverse perspectives.

    38 min
  7. Strategic Thinking to Shape the Future of Education-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.65 w/Greg Schermbeck

    MAY 7

    Strategic Thinking to Shape the Future of Education-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.65 w/Greg Schermbeck

    Strategic Thinking to Shape the Future of Education-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.65 w/Greg Schermbeck In Episode 65 of the Global Career Tech Education Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom sits down with Greg Schermbeck, Founder and Principal of SchermCo, to explore how strategic implementation is transforming education and workforce systems across the country. Greg shares lessons from his journey as a former educator turned social impact leader, emphasizing the power of persistence, data, and community partnership. This episode offers practical insights for educators, nonprofit leaders, and anyone working to build more equitable and effective systems. Topics Covered:-The Power of Public Investment in Workforce Systems -Education to Employment: Creating Pathways for High School Students -Data-Driven Family Empowerment That Works -Listen, Respond, Repeat: The Formula for Family Engagement -Charlotte’s First Workforce Development Plan -Greg Schermbeck’s Vision for the Future of CTEGreg Schermbeck Bio: On today’s episode, I’m joined by Greg Schermbeck, the founder and principal of SchermCo & founder of the SchermCo Foundation a national social-impact implementation firm that partners with schools and mission-driven organizations to drive equity and outcomes in underserved communities. Through services like strategic advising, family empowerment, workforce development, and data-driven corporate social responsibility, Greg and his team are helping to create sustainable change at the systems level. A former teacher, school leader, and Teach For America alum, Greg brings both on-the-ground experience and a visionary lens to his work. He’s also the host of the Square Pizza podcast, where he amplifies the voices of leaders of color making a difference across the country. Let’s dive in. Learn More About SchermCo.

    34 min
  8. Mapping The Student Learning Journey-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.64 w/Ekta Sahasi CEO of Spikeview

    APR 8

    Mapping The Student Learning Journey-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.64 w/Ekta Sahasi CEO of Spikeview

    Mapping The Student Learning Journey-Global Career Tech Education Podcast Ep.64 w/Ekta Sahasi CEO of Spikeview In Episode 64 of the Global CTE Podcast, host Sylvester Chisom sits down with Ekta Sahasi, the visionary Founder and CEO of Spikeview. Together, they explore how digital portfolios, GenAI, and student-centered design are transforming the future of Career & Technical Education. Ekta shares powerful insights on empowering students to own their learning journeys, showcase their skills, and unlock equitable access to career and educational opportunities. Topics Covered: -The Learning Journey Map: A New Way to Understand Growth -The Most Important Durable Skill: Adaptability -CTE in Action: Mapping Growth Through Real-World Experiences -What Makes a Student's Digital Portfolio Stand Out-Generative AI Meets Student VoiceEkta Sahasi Bio:Ekta Sahasi is the founder and CEO of Spikeview. Ekta is a dynamic executive with over 25 years of experience driving innovation, scaling ventures, and delivering transformative business outcomes. Recognized for her strategic vision and leadership, she excels at spearheading product innovation, building and leading high-performance teams, fostering interdisciplinary partnerships, and driving meaningful impact. With deep expertise in early-stage venture development, fundraising, and operational excellence, Ekta seamlessly bridges technical proficiency with business acumen.Six years ago, Ekta founded spikeview, a context-aware, privacy-first, GenAI-powered digital portfolio platform designed to empower young adults. spikeview enables users to document their experiences, build networks, and access a wide range of educational and career opportunities. Today, it is a leading platform for educators and students, facilitating diverse pathways from high school to postsecondary education and career success.

    38 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.3
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The #1 Career Tech Education Podcast! We want to wrap a blanket of good will and support around the career tech education community. We interview rockstar career and tech education directors, teachers, & innovators to uncover best practices and insights. We also highlight industry professionals to offer a real world perspective that will lead to preparing career tech education students for success in the global marketplace.