LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education

Jamie Saponaro

Jamie Saponaro and Jerri Kemble are two lively ladies passionate about education. Further flamed by the many changes in schools in 2020, they set out to make a positive contribution to the profession they love by creating LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education. LinkedUp’s mission is to have lively and in-depth discussions about relevant educational topics that matter and to link the movers and shakers of the education world with listeners. Jamie and Jerri both work for ClassLink, an edtech company powering this podcast as a service to educators everywhere.

  1. Experiential Learning With VR

    4D AGO

    Experiential Learning With VR

    What happens when classical learning meets cutting-edge technology? In this episode, we sit down with Kim Abel, the visionary behind Optima Academy, to find out. She shares how VR, AI, and intentional design create unforgettable student experiences, the leadership lessons learned along the way, and the stories that fuel her passion. Tune in as Kim shares the story of Optima Academy’s founding, the innovative practices that make their model stand out, and how her team leverages emerging technologies and intentional design to craft learning experiences students love and remember. Packed with ideas, inspiration, and actionable insights, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of K–12 education. --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Kim Abel serves as Head of School at Optima Academy Online (OAO), a pioneering virtual reality K-12 (and growing) school. Passionate about cultivating rich and rewarding thinking among students and faculty, Kim brings to the role a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Utah State University, a Master's in Education from William Carey University, National Board Teacher Certification, and an Ed.D. in Learning and Leadership Organizations from Vanderbilt University. Kim's dedication to educational excellence and continual learning is unwavering. Her vision is to make quality education accessible to all students. --- SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube Music⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Overcast⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW US: ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

    42 min
  2. Badass Firefly

    NOV 7

    Badass Firefly

    In this special episode of LinkedUp, Jamie flips the script and interviews her co-host, Jerri Kemble, about her newly released book, The Badass Firefly Effect. Their conversation is heartfelt and illuminating, exploring the stories behind the book and its central message: everyone has the power to shine and help others light up, too. Far from your typical leadership book, The Badass Firefly Effect offers a collection of short, “chicken soup for the soul”-style sparks; bite-sized lessons inspired by Jerri's 38 years in education. Join Jerri as she shares a few of her favorite sparks and the two women who inspired her to find her own light and begin her journey of creativity, courage, and connection. --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Jerri Kemble is an author and nationally recognized leader in educational technology, known for her innovative spirit and commitment to positive change. Today, as National Academic Advisor for ClassLink, author of The Badass Firefly Effect, and co-host of the LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education podcast, Jerri continues to inspire educators everywhere to lead with creativity, courage, and heart. --- SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube Music⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Overcast⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW US: ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

    23 min
  3. Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners

    OCT 24

    Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners

    When it comes to personalized learning, high school principal Nicki Slaugh is proving it’s less about tools and more about trust. This week, Jamie and Jerri sit down with Nicki to discuss her new book and learn why she believes personalization is about more than just tech: it's about truly knowing each student and creating the conditions for them to thrive. Tune in for Nicki's real-world stories from school leadership, plus practical insights from Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners. This episode is a powerful reminder that when we trust teachers, empower students, and lead with purpose, everyone shines. --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Nicki Slaugh is a principal, education trailblazer, and co-author of Personalize: Meeting the Needs of All Learners. Her education legacy spans over two decades, starting as a classroom teacher from kindergarten to third grade. Nicki currently serves as a secondary principal, fueled by a passionate commitment to cultivating a love of learning within her school, and is an educational consultant for Aspire Change EDU, working with schools around the country. --- SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube Music⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Overcast⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW US: ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

    35 min
  4. Learning in Hand

    OCT 10

    Learning in Hand

    This week, Jerri and Jamie are joined by Tony Vincent, an educator whose creative, practical ideas have inspired teachers for years. As the mind behind Learning in Hand, Tony has dedicated his career to helping educators design student-centered, technology-rich learning experiences that spark curiosity and creativity. Tony shares how thoughtful design and meaningful choice can transform engagement and deepen learning. From his early days as a fifth-grade teacher to his work as an edtech consultant, Tony's journey is a masterclass in curiosity, creativity, and authentic teaching. Tune in for fresh insights, inspiring ideas, and the wisdom of an educator who continues to guide and energize teachers everywhere. --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Tony Vincent is an educator, innovator, and creative force in edtech. His 26-year journey began as a fifth-grade teacher in Nebraska, where his class pioneered the use of Palm Pilots, sparking the creation of his Learning in Hand website. Now based in Iowa, he continues to teach, speak, and share practical ideas that blend creativity, technology, and authentic learning. --- SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube Music⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Overcast⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW US: ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

    43 min
  5. Inside Job

    OCT 3

    Inside Job

    In this episode, we sit down with author and thought leader Zuica Donev to explore her new book, Inside Job. Zuica shows us why the most impactful leadership starts within and how lasting change comes from the work of self-discovery, resilience, and purpose. Together, we unpack key themes from her book: quieting the noise, leading with authenticity, and building the inner strength to thrive in today’s complex world. Through personal stories and practical wisdom, Zuica offers a clear roadmap for anyone ready to lead from the inside out. Tune in to see how doing the “inside job” can transform not only your leadership, but your life. --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Zuica Donev is an author, licensed therapist, and leadership coach dedicated to helping others unlock their potential and lead with authenticity. She began her career as a special education teacher, where she quickly discovered the untapped strengths within individuals and became driven by questions of human behavior, growth, and purpose. Her journey led her to roles as a behavior specialist, counselor, and Director of Special Education, each deepening her understanding of resilience and human potential. --- SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube Music⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Overcast⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW US: ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

    37 min
  6. Driving Future Success

    SEP 19

    Driving Future Success

    School is only the starting line. The real question is: How do we prepare students to drive and thrive in a future economy we can barely imagine? In this episode, we sit down with Brad Baird, founder of Penda Learning, and Dr. Steve Miller, a leading researcher on learning platforms, to discuss the future of education and explore what it takes to connect learning with real-world opportunities. Together, Brad and Steve share what’s possible when innovation and equity intersect. From improved learning outcomes to data-driven impact, this episode makes us rethink our traditional understanding of student success. --- ABOUT OUR GUESTS Brad Baird is a visionary leader with a passion for transforming education through innovative solutions. With over 30 years of experience in sales and technology within the education sector, he has demonstrated a dedication to addressing the most pressing challenges facing students, educators, and administrators. As CEO of Penda Learning, he is driven by a mission to equip schools with the tools they need to foster engagement, achievement, and long-term success. Dr. Steve Miller is an applied neuroscientist and technology executive with 25+ years of experience bridging research, technology, and enterprise operations. A published author, inventor, and seasoned presenter, he thrives on turning ideas into actionable systems, leveraging data, innovation strategy, and leadership to deliver meaningful results. --- SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube Music⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Overcast⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW US: ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

    35 min
  7. AI for Equity

    SEP 12

    AI for Equity

    What happens when a high school student’s big idea meets a classroom full of learners? In this episode, you’ll meet Ronil Dubal, a high school senior and founder of Studysnap, and Meghan Killeen, a curriculum specialist who put the app to work with her students at Temple University. After inviting Ronil to share Studysnap with her English language learners, Meghan discovered just how powerful the tool could be in supporting diverse students. Together, they reflect on the journey from idea to classroom impact and explore how AI-driven tools are reshaping the future of learning. --- ABOUT OUR GUESTS Meghan Killeen is the Curriculum and Assessment Specialist for TCALC’s Academic Team. She graduated from The University of Westminster, London, U.K., with a degree in Applied Linguistics and Literature. She has nearly 15 years of teaching experience at both private institutions in Japan and at universities in New York City, including CUNY-LaGuardia and Pratt Institute. She has also served as a research assistant for a professional development program aimed at K-12 educators at Teachers College, Columbia University. Her research concentration is in project-based learning, assessment, and inter-semiotic communication. Ronil Dubal is the founder of Studysnap and a current high school senior from San Jose, CA. --- SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube Music⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Overcast⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW US: ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

    26 min
  8. Dot Fever

    SEP 5

    Dot Fever

    We're celebrating International Dot Day with the return of bestselling author and illustrator Peter H. Reynolds to the pod! In this episode, we catch up with Peter on what's been keeping him busy lately and how he's expanding the Dot movement to millions around the world. Together, we dive into Peter's work, including new stories that champion kindness and courage, and learn more about how he's continuing his mission to unlock creativity in every learner. --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Peter H. Reynolds is an accomplished writer, storyteller, and illustrator who has been acclaimed around the globe for his best-selling “stories for all ages” about protecting and nurturing the creative spirit, including the three books in his “Creatrilogy” - The Dot, Ish, and Sky Color. The Dot has now been published in over twenty languages, including Braille, and has won numerous awards. Each September, a growing number of educators and students have joined International Dot Day for a global celebration of creativity in the classroom. --- SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠YouTube Music⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Overcast⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW US: ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ POWERED BY CLASSLINK: ClassLink provides one-click single sign-on into web and Windows applications, and instant access to files at school and in the cloud. Accessible from any computer, tablet, or smartphone, ClassLink is ideal for 1to1 and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiatives. Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠classlink.com⁠⁠⁠.

    41 min
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About

Jamie Saponaro and Jerri Kemble are two lively ladies passionate about education. Further flamed by the many changes in schools in 2020, they set out to make a positive contribution to the profession they love by creating LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education. LinkedUp’s mission is to have lively and in-depth discussions about relevant educational topics that matter and to link the movers and shakers of the education world with listeners. Jamie and Jerri both work for ClassLink, an edtech company powering this podcast as a service to educators everywhere.

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