
Advertise on podcast: Edtech Insiders
Rating
5from
This podcast has
513 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Alex Sarlin and Ben KornellExplicit
No
Date created
2021/10/26
Latest episode
2026/10/22
Average duration
59 min.
Release period
2 days
Description
At Edtech Insiders, we interview founders, investors, operators, educators, and thought leaders about the future of education technology. You’ll hear from leaders across the education technology industry and learn about all of the important edtech trends happening globally.
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Check latest episodes from Edtech Insiders podcast
Week in Edtech 10/14/26: New York EDTECH WEEK Takeaways, Students Speak Out on AI, Higher Ed Transformation, and More! Feat. Abhijeet Sethi of LearningMate, Dr. Garikai Campbell of Jaali.ai, Rahim Rajan of AQL Labs & Dr. Lance Ford of Zoom
2026/10/22
Join hosts Ben Kornell and Alex Sarlin on Edtech Week at Columbia Teachers College in New York City as they explore how AI is reshaping teaching, learning, student success, and higher education operations.
✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:02:04] AI implementation and student perspectives
[00:06:52] Rethinking AI in education from productivity to pedagogy and student creation
[00:09:51] AI-powered assessment and personalized feedback
Plus, special guests:
[00:13:29] Abhijeet Sethi, SVP of Sales and Strategic Business Head of Edtech at LearningMate on 25 years of education technology and AI-powered transformation
[00:37:37] Dr. Garikai Campbell, CEO of Jaali.ai and Rahim Rajan, CEO of AQL Labs on secure, human-centered AI for higher education
[01:03:22] Dr. Lance Ford, Specialist Sales Strategy Lead for Education at Zoom on AI-powered classrooms and Zoom’s expanding education tools
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
Who Decides What Kids Learn? with Natasha Singer of The New York Times
2026/10/21
Natasha Singer has covered tech industry influence in schools for The New York Times for more than a decade. Her school tech reporting helped prompt California to enact a landmark student online privacy law. Her new book is "Coding Kids: Big Tech's Battle to Remake Public Schools". In a review, The New Yorker called the book "an even-tempered yet withering narrative of how the nation’s public schools came under the spell of private corporations."
💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How Big Tech companies have influenced what schools teach.The story behind Code.org and the push for coding education.What gets overlooked when industry priorities shape curricula.Why schools and parents are questioning technology in classrooms.How AI is repeating old edtech hype cycles and what educators can learn from the past.✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:06:02] How Apple, Microsoft, and Google expanded their influence in schools.
[00:11:32] Code.org and the rise of the coding movement.
[00:19:00] Coding, career promises, and the skills schools may be overlooking.
[00:21:54] Can good intentions and commercial interests coexist in education?
[00:26:30] Why AI is facing growing scrutiny in schools.
[00:35:51] Natasha Singer on the purpose of education and preparing students for a tech-driven world.
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
HigherEd Series: Can Apprenticeships Transform Higher Education? with Mallory Dwinal-Palisch of Craft Education
2026/10/20
Mallory Dwinal-Palisch is the President of Craft Education, a nonprofit division of Western Governors University that is developing the ecosystem platform for enabling work-based pathways across higher education and the workforce. Mallory has devoted her career to merging education with tech innovation. Her work streamlines regulatory data and addresses labor shortages, unlocking opportunities for working learners and providing real-time talent solutions for businesses.
Hosted by Matthew Rascoff
This episode is part of the Edtech Insiders HigherEd Podcast Series, featuring conversations with leaders shaping the future of higher education.
💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode
Why traditional degrees can limit access to opportunity.How apprenticeships can transform higher education.Rethinking teacher preparation and professional licensure.Breaking down silos between education and workforce systems.How AI is reshaping entry-level careers.✨ Episode Highlights
[00:00:24] Rethinking traditional pathways into teaching
[00:06:09] “Ability is everywhere, but opportunity is not.”
[00:17:11] The evolution of apprenticeship-based degrees
[00:34:25] Breaking down education and workforce silos
[00:43:45] AI and the future of entry-level work
[00:48:20] AI, entrepreneurship, and career opportunities
Interested in building or scaling teacher apprenticeship programs? Explore Building & Scaling Teacher Apprenticeships , a playbook developed by Craft Education in collaboration with the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The resource explores approaches to developing and scaling teacher apprenticeship programs.
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
The Future of Edtech: AI, Interoperability & Trust with Michael Feldstein of 1EdTech
2026/10/19
Michael Feldstein is Chief Strategy Officer at 1EdTech, where he helps shape an open, trusted, and interoperable edtech ecosystem. With more than 30 years in educational technology, he has also led the Empirical Educator Project, co-founded Argos Education, and founded the eLiterate blog.
💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why AI, interoperability, and cybersecurity are increasingly connected in edtech.How interoperability standards can help reduce security risks.What AI should and shouldn’t know about a learner.Why trusted, portable learning context could shape the future of AI in education.How the edtech community can work together to build greater trust and better systems.✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:05:51] Why interoperability creates potential cybersecurity attack surfaces.
[00:13:26] AI, human vulnerabilities, and the challenge of securing connected edtech systems.
[00:26:31] Michael introduces the idea of Trusted Portable Learning Context.
[00:32:35] How policies and verifiable credentials could govern what AI can access.
[00:41:35] Michael on “cognitive surrender” and finding the right balance between AI’s benefits and risks.
[00:46:48] Why better interoperability starts with better collaboration across the edtech ecosystem.
[00:51:53] Keeping the human side of education at the center of technology.
Michael referenced 1EdTech’s webinar, “LMS Security: This Is What Shared Responsibility Looks Like,” featuring Blackboard, D2L, and Instructure. Watch the replay here.
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
Week in Edtech 10/7/26: Cambridge’s AI Teaching Report, Brighteye’s New Fund III Strategy & Raspberry Pi’s AI Literacy for All
2026/10/16
Join host Ben Kornell as he speaks with edtech leaders about AI in English language teaching, the future of learning and work, and expanding access to computer science and AI literacy.
✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:01:10] Dr. Evelina Galaczi, Director of Research at Cambridge University Press & Assessment and Ana Petersen, a language educator in Florida on AI in English language teaching
[00:19:03] Ben Wirz, founding partner and David Guérin, partner of Brighteye Ventures on the future of learning and work
[00:45:31] Philip Colligan, CEO of the Raspberry Pi Foundation, on AI literacy and computer science education
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
Celebrating 500 Episodes with Reed Hastings of Netflix
2026/10/13
To celebrate 500 episodes of Edtech Insiders, Alex Sarlin and Ben Kornell are joined by Reed Hastings for a special conversation about AI, education, and the future of learning. They explore the potential of AI-powered tutoring, the changing role of teachers, the future of assessment, and what schools could look like in the years ahead.
Reed Hastings is the co-founder of Netflix and Chairman of Powder in Utah. He served as Netflix CEO for 25 years and previously founded Pure Software. Reed serves on the boards of Bloomberg and Anthropic and is an active education philanthropist. He previously served as President of the California State Board of Education and currently supports organizations including KIPP, City Fund, and the Charter School Growth Fund.
💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Reed Hastings’ vision for AI-powered tutoring.How conversational AI could transform learning and assessment.Why Hastings believes charter schools can drive education innovation.How AI could expand access to personalized learning globally.What the future of teachers and schools could look like.✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:05:42] Reed Hastings joins EdTech Insiders' 500 episodes celebration.
[00:11:29] The case for AI-powered individualized tutoring.
[00:16:32] The future of AI tutors and conversational learning.
[00:22:21] How AI could reshape the role of teachers.
[00:30:31] AI and the growing “tech lash” in schools.
[00:34:00] Why learning and assessment could become conversational.
[00:38:00] AI’s potential to transform schools over the next decade.
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
Why Productive Struggle Matters in AI-Powered Learning with Dacia Toll of Coursemojo
2026/10/07
Dacia Toll is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Coursemojo, an AI teaching assistant designed to help students make meaningful reading gains. A former teacher and principal in New Haven and founder of Achievement First, Dacia brings a deep focus on instructional quality, student outcomes, and what it takes to improve learning at scale. Coursemojo has now expanded to more than 85 school districts, from large districts like Boston, Denver, and Duval County to 5 small districts in rural Wisconsin and 13 districts of all sizes in Texas.
💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why productive struggle matters for learningHow Coursemojo uses AI without giving away answersThe role of high-quality instructional materialsSupporting multilingual learners and students with IEPsUsing AI to strengthen teacher efficacy✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:03:10] Dacia Toll’s journey from Edtech skeptic to founder
[00:04:58] Why outcomes drive Coursemojo’s approach
[00:06:29] Why high-quality instructional materials matter for reading achievement
[00:11:26] Designing AI around productive struggle
[00:18:58] Supporting multilingual learners and students with IEPs
[00:22:33] AI as a tool for teacher efficacy
[00:25:25] Coursemojo’s vision for a more coherent learning experience
Learn more: What It Looks Like to Build Educational AI Based on Cognitive Science – K12 Digest
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
HigherEd Series: What Should Universities Own in the Age of AI? With George Siemens of Southern New Hampshire University
2026/10/06
George Siemens is a prominent learning theorist and digital education researcher serving as the Chief AI and Innovation Officer at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), he co-founded SNHU's AI-learning platform. He is widely known as the pioneer of the learning theory Connectivism and for creating the first Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs).
Hosted by Matthew Rascoff
This episode is part of the Edtech Insiders HigherEd Podcast Series, featuring conversations with leaders shaping the future of higher education.
💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How MOOCs shaped online learning.How AI can move education toward deeper thinking and human connection.What universities should own vs. rent in AI.Why student agency and data matter.How SNHU is building an AI-ready culture.✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:03:21] The origins and evolution of MOOCs.
[00:10:00] AI, human connection, and education.
[00:14:46] Lessons from learning analytics.
[00:20:20] Developing the “whole human.”
[00:23:32] What universities should own vs. rent.
[00:31:05] SNHU’s approach to AI and sovereignty.
[00:33:14] SNHU’s “forward deployed engineer” model.
[00:35:39] Sharing AI lessons across higher education.
Learn more: Explore the Chief AI Officer Network (CAION)
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
How Educators Are Shaping the Future of AI in Education with Google
2026/10/05
Jennie Magiera is the Global Head of Education Impact at Google, a bestselling author, and former teacher, coach, administrator, and professor.
Chanel Johnson is an educator with 15+ years in K–12, STEM, and EdTech. She is a Google Certified AI Educator and Innovator and currently teaches 8th grade science.
Hannah Ketteman is Senior Instructional Consultant for AI at Texas A&M University-Central Texas and a Google Faculty Fellow, focusing on human-first AI integration in education.
💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why AI should start with the learning goal.How teachers can build AI confidence and fluency.Using AI as a thought partner and co-planner.Teaching students AI discernment.What human-first AI looks like in education.✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:01:17] Centering educator voices in AI
[00:08:30] AI in education: Promise vs. preparedness
[00:15:48] The importance of teacher mindset
[00:22:33] Teachers as “master builders” of AI
[00:24:21] Teaching AI discernment
[00:26:39] AI as a co-planner
[00:39:35] The future of AI in the classroom
This episode is produced in partnership with Google.
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
Global EdTech Prize Top 10 Finalists on AI, Access & Impact
2026/10/02
In this episode, Alex Sarlin speaks with leaders and finalists from the Global EdTech Prize about expanding access to education, supporting underserved learners, and using technology and AI to drive meaningful impact around the world.
💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How Edtech is expanding access for underserved and displaced learners. New approaches to assessment, literacy, and learning outcomes. How AI is enabling more personalized learning experiences. How technology can support educators rather than replace them. Why collaboration across the global Edtech ecosystem matters. ✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:02:38] Vikas Pota, Founder and CEO of T4 Education and Global EdTech Prize on the mission behind the prize and its focus on discovering and scaling Edtech innovations with global impact.
Finalist Interviews:
[00:13:16] Abdullahi Dahir Mire, Founder, Refugee Youth Education Hub (RYEH)
[00:28:59] Alina A. von Davier, PhD, Chief of Assessment, Duolingo
[00:43:34] Edan Shahar, Founder & CEO, Wild Zebra
[00:58:22] Dania Bush, International Educational Consultant, Renaissance Learning
[01:06:54] Gabi Immelman, Founder, Mindjoy
[01:18:21] Ami Shah, Co-Founder & CEO, Peekapak
[01:31:39] Quinn O’Brien, Chief Marketing Officer, Carnegie Learning
Watch the full Global EdTech Prize 2026 Top 10 announcement here.
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
Week in Edtech 9/23/26: Flint's Teacher AI Literacy with Sohan Choudhury, AskSia’s Global Learning with Celine Xu & 2U’s AI Strategy with Adam Fein
2026/10/01
Join hosts Alex Sarlin and Ben Kornell as they interview leaders from Flint, AskSia, and 2U about AI literacy, personalized learning, responsible AI adoption, and the future of higher education.
✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:01:15] Sohan Choudhury, Founder of Flint, on AI literacy for teachers and responsible AI adoption in schools
[00:15:10] Celine Xu, Co-founder and COO of AskSia, on personalized AI learning and student independence
[00:43:03] Adam Fein, VP of Academic Innovation and Strategic Partnerships at 2U, on the future of higher education, AI, and assessment
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
How Microsoft Is Building AI for Learning, Not Just Answers with Deirdre Quarnstrom
2026/09/30
This episode is produced in partnership with Microsoft.
Deirdre Quarnstrom leads Microsoft’s AI-enhanced learning product portfolio and strategy. She started her work in education bringing Minecraft Education to students and educators around the world. Deirdre also serves as a Director on the board of the Block by Block Foundation and is a founding partner and advisor at Reaction, a social impact VC fund.
💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How Microsoft is approaching AI in education.Why AI tutors should guide students rather than give them answers.How learning science shapes AI-powered learning tools.How AI can reduce teacher workload.The future of AI-powered game-based learning.✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:05:38] Minecraft Education and the impact of the Hour of Code
[00:10:46] Microsoft’s approach to AI in education
[00:20:48] How AI can help reduce teacher workload
[00:25:52] Building AI tools around learning science
[00:29:20] “The magic is when the student figures something out for themselves.”
[00:30:37] The potential renaissance of game-based learning
[00:37:15] AI safety, privacy, and educator involvement
[00:53:27] Why AI should be a “power up” for educators and students
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
HigherEd Series: Sal Khan on What Higher Education Needs to Change in the AI Era
2026/09/29
Sal Khan is the founder and CEO of Khan Academy and Vision Steward and board member of TED, two global nonprofits that provide free education to 200+ million people worldwide.
Sal is the author of The One World Schoolhouse and Brave New Words, and the co-author of Teaching Students to Use AI Ethically & Responsibly. His forthcoming book, Job Shock, examines how AI will transform the future of work and how societies can build learning systems that help people adapt, learn, and thrive.
Co-Hosted by Matthew Rascoff
This episode is part of the Edtech Insiders HigherEd Podcast Series, featuring conversations with leaders shaping the future of higher education.
💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode
Why AI is forcing higher education to rethink its value.The vision behind the Khan TED Institute.Why durable skills like communication and collaboration matter.How portfolios and authentic projects could improve hiring signals.What lifelong learning could look like in an AI-driven workforce.✨ Episode Highlights
[00:02:52] The vision behind the Khan TED Institute
[00:04:30] How AI is reshaping higher education
[00:10:01] Rethinking how employers identify talent
[00:15:46] Moving from informal learning to credentials
[00:20:48] Creating better signals of learner skills
[00:31:23] Learning through authentic work experiences
[00:35:58] The future of the Khan TED Institute
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
Can AI Make Students Better Thinkers? Inside CAiSEY's Voice-First Learning Revolution with Dan Wang & Johanna Chouraqui
2026/09/28
Dan Wang is the Lambert Family Professor of Social Enterprise at Columbia Business School and Co-founder of CAiSEY, a voice-first AI discussion platform that helps students develop critical thinking through conversation. Johanna Chouraqui leads instructor onboarding, user research, and operations at CAiSEY, bringing nearly a decade of experience in K-12 education and learning design.
💡 5 Things You'll Learn in This Episode
Why voice-based AI can foster deeper critical thinking than text-based interactions.How CAiSEY helps instructors increase student participation and classroom engagement.Why AI should act as a thinking partner and not a homework shortcut.How voice conversations give educators new insights into student understanding.What the future of AI-powered discussion and learning could look like across higher education.✨ Episode Highlights
[00:03:32] The origin story of CAiSEY and why ChatGPT inspired a new approach to classroom learning.
[00:09:34] Why voice conversations unlock more creative and diverse thinking than text.
[00:15:22] How AI-powered discussions help quieter students build confidence before class.
[00:19:32] Why CAiSEY is intentionally designed to challenge students through debate.
[00:24:31] From one Columbia classroom to 25+ universities: CAiSEY's rapid growth.
[00:30:53] How voice-first AI improves accessibility for neurodiverse learners.
[00:34:10] Early research showing increased classroom participation and deeper learning.
[00:42:19] Dan and Johanna's vision for AI that strengthens, not replaces, human learning and classroom relationships.
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
Week in Edtech 9/15/26: Gates Commits $1B to Equitable AI, Low-Tech Tutoring Shows Learning Gains, AI Safety Under Scrutiny, and More! Feat. Dorka Horvath of BOOKR Kids & Nitesh Goel & Zareen Poonen Levien of Padlet
2026/09/24
Join hosts Alex Sarlin and Ben Kornell as they break down the biggest stories shaping AI safety, tutoring research, equitable access to AI, and how educators are using AI in the classroom.
✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:07:16] AI safety concerns grow as Anthropic researchers and executives question the pace of frontier AI development
[00:12:42] AI alignment, self-improvement, and multi-agent systems raise new questions about control
[00:21:47] Randomized trial finds meaningful learning gains from consistent 20-minute phone tutoring across five countries
[00:25:23] Low-tech tutoring delivers results at an estimated $11 per child
[00:26:45] Gates Foundation commits $1B to advancing equitable AI across education, health, and agriculture
[00:34:18] Instruction Partners' AI in Action tour examines 20 AI tools across 16 school systems
[00:36:14] AI in schools works best when instructional goals come first and technology follows
Plus, special guests:
[00:38:29] Dorka Horvath, CEO and Co-founder of BOOKR Kids, on its $6.1M Series A, literacy, digital storytelling, and responsible AI
[00:59:38] Nitesh Goel, CEO and Founder and Zareen Poonen Levien, Principal Educator, of Padlet, on building an education company and creating meaningful classroom collaboration
😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders!
Follow us on our podcast, newsletter & LinkedIn here.
🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:
This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education.
Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.
Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com.
Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now.
Podcast reviews
Read Edtech Insiders podcast reviews
Gogabla 2026/10/21
Good content, low production value
One of the hosts sounds like he is recording from a sewer tunnel. Wish they could get good audio equipment. Otherwise, great podcast.
jjm.309 2024/08/26
Awesome podcast for founders
As a founder of an edtech startup, I have found this podcast indispensable for my professional work. Thank you!
Kjf190 2023/05/08
The best podcast if you work in education and learning
This is the only podcast that is actually pinned to the top of my podcast list. They cover all the most interesting news across all of education (preK...
holaverito 2023/02/09
Excellent for EdTech Founders
A must listen for anyone in the world of EdTech or seeking to found in EdTech. This podcast gives a good lay of the land while diving into detailed ex...
Akamdar123 2022/09/07
Excellent podcast on edtech!
Highly recommended! Takes a broad sweep on edtech trends yet goes deep into each trend by inviting industry leaders to share their insights!
Hsingh@prowess 2022/08/07
One of best EdTech podcasts
I have been in EdTech for 9 years and believe this is one of the most efficient way to learn and stay updated with EdTech sector.
Alex and Ben do a g...
Fentski 2022/05/30
Useful for Ed tech PM
This is a nice way to learn about what’s happening in the field.
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