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. Mind Sharing

    -3 J

    Mind Sharing

    Robert Martellacci is known for a simple mantra: "Keep the learning curve steep." In this episode, he sits down with Jamie and Jerri to break down how curiosity, humility, and a commitment to continuous learning have shaped his work across countries, cultures, and classrooms. From building global edtech communities to connecting educators and innovators worldwide, Robert reminds us that learning isn’t a phase: it’s a lifelong posture. Together, we dig into his belief that passion has no expiration date and that meaningful impact comes from relationships, not geography. A must-listen for leaders who want to stay curious, stay relevant, and keep evolving. --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Robert Martellacci, widely recognized as the Godfather of EdTech in Canada, is a pioneering leader in education technology with over 25 years of experience. He is the Founder, President, and Publisher of MindShare Learning, a premier media and consulting firm dedicated to bridging the gap between education and technology. As Founder and CEO of MindShare Workspace, Canada’s first mall-located coworking space, and Co-Founder & CEO of C21 Canada, he champions modern learning models and future-ready education policies. When he’s not in the office, he enjoys spending time with his cherished family, playing faculty hockey at York University, or sailing on Georgian Bay. His signature sign-off captures his mission: “Until next time, keep the digital learning curve steep!” --- 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.

    31 min
  2. Purposeful Technology, Powerful Learning

    30 JANV.

    Purposeful Technology, Powerful Learning

    Edtech isn't about more technology: it's about better purpose. This week we're joined by Stacy Hawthorne (Board Chair, CoSN) to talk about what purpose-driven digital learning really looks like in today's schools. From unpacking CoSN's Screentime Toolkit and exploring the focus of her book-in-progress "Purposeful Technology, Powerful Learning," Stacy shares her insights. Together, we'll learn how to reframe conversations around screen use, community expectations, and meaningful edtech decision-making, putting real educator stories at the focus. --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Stacy Hawthorne, Executive Director at the EdTech Leaders Alliance and CAO at Learn21, has a distinguished career in educational technology. Stacy serves as the Chair of the CoSN Board of Directors. She led the Davidson Academy Online as Director of Online Learning, and has consulted for digital learning program development across the U.S. Stacy holds a Doctorate in Educational Technology, Master's in Educational Administration, and a Bachelor's in Business Administration. She possesses CETL and CCRE certifications and holds teaching and administration licenses in Nevada. Stacy is an active member of several CoSN committees, an ISTE Community Leader, 2024 ISTE 20 to Watch awardee, and serves on several editorial and advisory boards related to digital 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.

    28 min
  3. The Strategic Change Agenda

    16 JANV.

    The Strategic Change Agenda

    At a time when school districts are facing rapid change, rising complexity, and the growing influence of AI, traditional strategic plans aren’t cutting it anymore. In this episode, we explore a bold alternative: the Strategic Change Agenda. Together, Steve McCammon (President & CEO) and George Thompson (Former President & Current Director of Strategic Initiatives) at the Schlechty Center, along with Michael Leubelfeld, a superintendent who has actually led his district through this work in practice, unpack how districts can move beyond compliance and build the clarity, culture, and capacity needed to lead through uncertainty. --- ABOUT OUR GUESTS Steve McCammon is the Executive Director at the National Superintendents Roundtable and the President and CEO of the Schlechty Center. He leads a team of dedicated professionals committed to improving education outcomes for students nationwide. With over 10 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, he has a proven track record of developing and implementing effective strategies that support leaders across the educational spectrum. George Thompson joined the Schlechty Center in 1995 after serving as Superintendent of Gwinnett County Schools in Georgia. Stepping aside a president in 2018, he continues to support the center as Director of Strategic Initiatives. Dr. Michael Lubelfeld has served as a public school superintendent in Illinois since 2010 and currently leads North Shore School District 112, serving the communities of Highland Park and Highwood, IL, just north of Chicago. A nationally recognized educational leader, Dr. Lubelfeld is deeply engaged in leadership development and professional growth, collaborating with state and national associations to inspire the next generation of educational leaders. --- 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.

    33 min
  4. Shaping AI Literacy for Youth

    9 JANV.

    Shaping AI Literacy for Youth

    AI isn’t coming to classrooms: it's already there. This week on LinkedUp, we sit down with Jeff Riley (Co-Founder, Day of AI) for an accessible conversation about what artificial intelligence really is and what it's not—especially for young learners. Tune in as Jeff walks us through the basics: how AI works at a high level, where students already encounter it in their daily lives, and why understanding AI is quickly becoming a new form of literacy. Together, we'll explore why AI literacy for youth should start with curiosity, critical thinking, and ethical awareness. Whether you’re just starting to think about AI in education or searching for the right language to guide thoughtful conversations with young people, this episode offers a clear, empowering place to begin, focused on trust, purpose, and helping students make sense of the world they're already living in. --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Jeffrey C. Riley is a co-founder of Day of AI and the former Massachusetts Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education. Before that position, he was appointed Superintendent/Receiver of the Lawrence Public Schools, where, for over 6 years, he led a team that brought significant improvements by shifting resources and autonomy to the school level, expanding the school day, increasing enrichment opportunities, and ensuring all schools had great leaders and teachers. --- 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.

    28 min
  5. Game Changers

    12/12/2025

    Game Changers

    What does the future of learning look like? In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Jenn Womble, the visionary driving the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC), to get an exclusive look at what’s coming to Orlando in January 2026. Jenn reveals the bold ideas, immersive experiences, and innovative programming shaping one of the world’s most influential edtech gatherings. From stepping into a full-immersion VR classroom and exploring a reimagined vendor floor to cutting-edge talks on AI, FETC 2026 is packed with surprises that celebrate creativity, leadership, and the evolving role of technology in schools. Get your front-row seat to the future of learning! --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Jennifer Eakin Womble is a nationally recognized leader in education and technology, dedicated to advancing professional development and innovation in the edtech space. Since 2010, she has served as the Conference Chair for the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC)—the largest independent edtech conference in North America—curating high-impact events and professional learning experiences. She also leads the FETC Webinar Series and contributes to District Administration magazine. A nationally recognized speaker, Jennifer has been honored as an EdTech and eLearning Top Influencer, an EdTech Digest Leadership Award recipient, and a judge for the District Administration Top EdTech Products and Reimagine Education Awards. --- 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.

    51 min
  6. Vibe Coding

    05/12/2025

    Vibe Coding

    AI is evolving fast, but the next leap isn’t about smarter chatbots. It’s about systems that support learners in new ways. In this episode, Jerri and Jamie sit down with Darren Coxon: a trailblazer in agentic AI and one of today's most insightful voices on how AI can enhance learning. Darren unpacks the shift from generative AI to agentic AI, where systems don’t just answer questions; they take action, analyze, iterate, and provide meaningful support to learners. Together, we break down how he partners with schools to implement AI responsibly so students build a deeper understanding, stronger skills, and real ownership of their learning. He also lays out a bold, five-year vision for AI in K–12 and explains why this moment is a once-in-a-generation chance to rethink what learning can be. --- ABOUT OUR GUEST Darren Coxon is a globally recognized leader in AI-driven education solutions. He is renowned for his strategic expertise in implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI) within schools and educational organisations. As the Co-Founder of Kompass Education, Darren empowers schools and edtech companies to navigate the responsible and effective adoption of AI. Darren is an international speaker, working with leading schools and membership organisations worldwide. He is also a proud father of three. --- 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.

    44 min
  7. Experiential Learning With VR

    14/11/2025

    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
  8. Badass Firefly

    07/11/2025

    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
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À propos

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.