Episodios

  • Transforming Education: Dr. Wendy Amato’s Insights on Warm Demander Pedagogy and Mistake-Friendly Classrooms

    Transforming Education: Dr. Wendy Amato’s Insights on Warm Demander Pedagogy and Mistake-Friendly Classrooms
    Nov 6 2025
    Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems that shape the future of education, focusing on Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and the latest Educational Technology Trends. In this conversation, Dr. Wendy Amato, Chief Academic Officer for the Teaching Channel, shares her extensive background in education and the Teaching Channel's mission. She discusses the importance of effective professional development for teachers, emphasizing the need for adult learning models designed specifically for educators. Dr. Amato explains warm demander pedagogy and how to create mistake-friendly classroom environments. She also explores the K-12 Coalition's role in supporting teachers and building healthy school cultures. Throughout the discussion, she reflects on her experiences as a podcaster and the valuable lessons learned from her guests. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."
    • Strategic Vision for Digital Learning:Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.
    • Curriculum Design and Implementation:Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.
    • Effective Instructional Coaching:Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

    Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways:
    • Dr. Amato brings extensive experience in education, from classroom teaching to administrative leadership.
    • Teaching Channel offers resources and support for both teachers and school leaders.
    • Effective professional development must align with adult learning principles designed for educators.
    • Mistake-friendly classrooms encourage students to take risks and view errors as learning opportunities.
    • Warm demander pedagogy combines high expectations with strong support to help students succeed.
    • Meaningful professional development includes follow-up coaching and accountability measures.
    • Strong student-teacher relationships form the foundation of effective instruction.
    • K12 Coalition helps educators implement evidence-based teaching practices.
    • Teacher certification programs must be both accessible and high-quality.
    • Hosting a podcast has deepened Dr. Amato's understanding of current educational challenges and solutions.

    Chapters:
    • 00:00Introduction to Dr. Wendy Amato
    • 02:40The Evolution of Professional Development
    • 05:25Understanding Adult Learning in Education
    • 08:04Warm Demander Pedagogy Explained
    • 11:03Creating a Mistake-Friendly Classroom
    • 13:49Building a Supportive Classroom Culture
    • 16:34The Role of K-12 Coalition
    • 19:17Inspiring Stories from the Field
    • 21:53Lessons Learned from Podcasting
    • 25:02Conclusion and Future Conversations

    About our Guest: Dr. Wendy Amato Dr. Wendy Amato is Chief Academic Officer at K12 Coalition, where she leads academic strategy across a...
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    36 m
  • From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Socrait Is Redesigning Teacher Support

    From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Socrait Is Redesigning Teacher Support
    Nov 2 2025
    Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems shaping the future of education—Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and Educational Technology Trends. Dr. Maria Anderson shares her journey in education and the creation of Socrait, a tool designed to reduce teacher burnout by streamlining classroom data management. She explains how cognitive exhaustion affects teachers and how Socrait captures spoken data during lessons, freeing educators to focus on teaching. The discussion includes user feedback, data privacy considerations, and the mission to enhance teacher happiness and effectiveness. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."
    • Strategic Vision for Digital Learning:Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.
    • Curriculum Design and Implementation:Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.
    • Effective Instructional Coaching:Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

    Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways:
    • Dr. Maria Anderson brings 30 years of education experience to her work.
    • Socrait enhances teacher happiness and strengthens school communities.
    • Teachers face cognitive exhaustion from managing overwhelming data and responsibilities.
    • Socrait captures spoken classroom data, helping teachers remember important interactions.
    • Socrait quickly drafts parent communications based on classroom observations.
    • Teachers report feeling calmer and more focused when using Socrait.
    • Data privacy is central—no audio is recorded, and the platform is FERPA compliant.
    • Socrait is user-friendly and accessible on mobile devices.
    • Teachers can leverage Socrait to refine their instructional practices.
    • The platform empowers educators to focus on meaningful learning experiences.

    Chapters:
    • 00:00 Introduction to Socrait and Dr. Maria Anderson
    • 01:54 The Journey to Socrait: Addressing Teacher Burnout
    • 05:22 Demonstrating Socrait: A Classroom Tool for Teachers
    • 12:18 Feedback from Educators: The Impact of Socrait
    • 13:48 Data Privacy in AI: Ensuring Safety with Socrait
    • 15:23 Final Thoughts: Empowering Teachers with Socrait

    Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
    • www.Socrait.com

    About our Guest: Dr. Maria Andersen Dr. Maria Andersen is the Cofounder and CEO of Socrait, her 2nd EdTech startup. With a 30-year career dedicated to improving teaching and learning, Maria has always kept one foot in the classroom. She’s taught across community colleges, private colleges, universities, and K-12 schools, covering a wide range of subjects, including math, business, chemistry, ELL, and her personal favorite, a middle school elective she designed and is still teaching, called "Technology & Society." Links of Interest
    • Website:
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    14 m
  • Empowering Girls in STEM: Dr. Leslie Gruis’s NSA to Education Journey

    Empowering Girls in STEM: Dr. Leslie Gruis’s NSA to Education Journey
    Oct 8 2025
    Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems shaping education's future, focusing on Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and cutting-edge Educational Technology Trends. Dr. Leslie Gruis joins us for an engaging conversation, sharing her remarkable journey from a math-fascinated young girl to a distinguished figure in national security and education. Drawing on her 30-year NSA career, she discusses her passion for mentoring STEM students, particularly middle school girls. Dr. Gruis highlights privacy's fundamental role in democracy while examining both challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies like AI. Her educational insights emphasize the critical need for effective teaching methods that will inspire our next generation of mathematicians and scientists. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."
    • Strategic Vision for Digital Learning:Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.
    • Curriculum Design and Implementation:Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.
    • Effective Instructional Coaching:Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

    Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways:
    • Dr. Gruis holds a PhD in applied math and engineering sciences.
    • She champions mentoring middle school girls in STEM.
    • The U.S. faces a critical shortage of cybersecurity professionals.
    • Her NSA career spanned over 30 years with a focus on cryptology.
    • The internet's emergence transformed both her work and the field of mathematics.
    • Her book on privacy emphasizes its fundamental role in democracy.
    • Dr. Gruis contends that technology hasn't solved core educational challenges.
    • She strongly advocates for hands-on learning experiences.
    • Middle school represents a critical juncture for girls' interest in math and science.
    • Effective teaching hinges on understanding students' individual learning styles.

    Chapters:
    • 00:00 Introduction to STEM Education and Mentorship
    • 01:48 The Importance of Middle School Girls in STEM
    • 04:31 Personal Journey in Mathematics and NSA Career
    • 09:01 The Evolution of Technology and Its Impact
    • 14:10 Privacy and Cybersecurity Insights
    • 17:13 AI in Education and Society
    • 19:38 Mentoring Middle School Girls
    • 22:38 Teaching Strategies for Engaging Students
    • 27:10 Challenges in Education and the Future of STEM

    About our Guest: Dr. Leslie Gruis Born a patriot and raised on Capitol Hill, Dr. Leslie Gruis has dedicated her life to the intersection of mathematics, national service, privacy and civil liberties. She spent three decades as a senior intelligence officer at the National Security Agency, where she developed disruptive technologies to tackle complex security challenges and helped shape internal debates around surveillance and privacy. As the first president of the NSA’s Women in Mathematics Society, she championed inclusion in STEM early in her career. Dr. Gruis also...
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    39 m
  • Empowering Student Voice by Building AI Ethics Frameworks

    Empowering Student Voice by Building AI Ethics Frameworks
    Sep 29 2025
    Welcome to Digital Learning Today. In this episode, Jeff Bradbury explores the strategic systems shaping education's future, focusing on Instructional Coaching, Artificial Intelligence, Professional Learning, and cutting-edge Educational Technology Trends. In this conversation, Greg Mertz, Director of Innovation at New England Innovation Academy, discusses NEIA's unique educational environment with its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. He explains how the school integrates AI into its curriculum, the vital role of community engagement when navigating new technologies, and the creative spaces where students explore their passions. Mertz highlights the school's teaching approach that encourages experimentation and cross-disciplinary collaboration, emphasizing the importance of equipping students with tools for success in our rapidly changing world. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."
    • Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.
    • Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.
    • Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

    Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways:
    • NEIA seamlessly integrates innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the curriculum.
    • The academy empowers students to discover their passions and create meaningful impact.
    • AI serves as an educational enhancement tool rather than a replacement for teaching.
    • Engaging the community is essential when determining AI's appropriate role in education.
    • An AI ethics board actively monitors technology's impact within the school environment.
    • The school views generative AI as a diverse toolset that enhances learning opportunities.
    • Creative spaces are democratized—available to all students regardless of program enrollment.
    • The culture embraces "failing forward," encouraging students to learn from their mistakes.
    • Curriculum development prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility for the entire student body.
    • NEIA promotes cross-disciplinary collaboration to enrich learning experiences.

    Chapters:
    • 00:00 Introduction to New England Innovation Academy
    • 02:47 Innovative Learning Environment and Curriculum
    • 05:31 Navigating AI in Education
    • 08:06 Community Response to AI Integration
    • 10:59 Generative AI and Its Applications
    • 13:37 Creative Spaces and Student Engagement
    • 16:12 Tools and Techniques for Student Projects
    • 18:59 Curriculum Integration Across Grades
    • 21:59 Conclusion and Future Engagement

    About our Guest: Greg Mertz Greg Mertz is Director of Innovation at New England Innovation Academy. As a maker, outdoor enthusiast, and educator, Greg enjoys the challenges and rewards that come with wearing a myriad of hats. Greg entered the field of education over twenty-five years ago and brings to NEIA a wide range of...
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    27 m
  • Transforming Education: Understanding AI’s Role in Student Engagement

    Transforming Education: Understanding AI’s Role in Student Engagement
    Aug 20 2025
    On this episode of Digital Learning Today, we dive into the transformative world of AI in education with Andrea Pasinetti and Jagriti Agrawal, the innovative minds behind Kira. This cutting-edge AI platform is revolutionizing personalized learning at scale, and our conversation uncovers how it's changing classrooms nationwide. We explore Kira's founding vision, tackle important questions about student data safety, and share real feedback from educators already using the platform. The discussion also addresses practical concerns like budget considerations for schools implementing AI solutions. Educators won't want to miss our deep dive into professional development strategies, practical implementation tips, and the learning journey that comes with adopting new AI tools. We conclude with powerful insights about the irreplaceable role of teachers in an AI-enhanced educational landscape and exciting predictions for the future of teaching and learning. **Start using Kira Today! https://app.kira-learning.com/register/** Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."
    • Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.
    • Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.
    • Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

    Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways:
    • Teacher Empowerment: Kira provides AI tools that enhance teaching practices without replacing the educator's expertise and judgment.
    • Safety & Privacy: The platform maintains rigorous standards for student data protection and creates secure learning environments.
    • Evolving Perceptions: Educator attitudes toward AI have shifted from skepticism to enthusiasm as they discover practical applications.
    • Classroom Innovation: Teachers are actively exploring creative ways to integrate AI tools into their existing curriculum and instruction.
    • Partnership Model: AI works best as a collaborative tool that amplifies teacher abilities rather than attempting to replace human instruction.
    • Professional Learning: Successful AI integration requires thoughtful, ongoing professional development tailored to educators' needs.
    • Balanced Understanding: Effective use of AI tools demands both practical skills and theoretical knowledge about how the technology works.
    • Continuous Improvement: Learning to leverage AI effectively requires experimentation, reflection, and refinement over time.
    • Teacher Impact: Despite technological advances, teachers remain the most significant factor in student achievement and growth.
    • Future of Learning: Personalized educational experiences powered by AI represent the next evolution in effective teaching and learning.

    Chapters:
    • 00:00...
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    35 m
  • Building STEM Identity: How SmartLab Prepares Students for Future Careers - The Jeff Bradbury Show

    Building STEM Identity: How SmartLab Prepares Students for Future Careers - The Jeff Bradbury Show
    Aug 16 2025
    In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Dr. Jennifer Berry, CEO of SmartLab, discusses the importance of STEM education and the concept of STEM identity, which emphasizes students' self-belief and belonging in the STEM fields. She shares her journey into education, the role of educators in fostering a productive learning environment, and the necessity of community involvement in creating sustainable STEM ecosystems. Dr. Berry highlights the significance of hands-on, project-based learning and the need for continuous support and training for educators to ensure long-term success in STEM education. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."
    • Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.
    • Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.
    • Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

    Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways:
    • Fostering STEM Identity: Building students' confidence and sense of belonging in STEM disciplines creates a foundation for lifelong learning.
    • Creating Supportive Environments: The physical space and skilled facilitators together create the optimal conditions for STEM discovery and growth.
    • Engaging the Community: Sustainable STEM programs thrive when businesses, families, and schools collaborate to support student learning.
    • Breaking Classroom Boundaries: Effective STEM education connects classroom learning with real-world applications and community resources.
    • Prioritizing Hands-On Learning: Project-based approaches allow students to physically engage with concepts, leading to deeper understanding.
    • Supporting Educator Growth: Continuous professional development ensures teachers can confidently guide students through evolving STEM challenges.
    • Building Integrated Systems: Successful STEM education harmonizes physical environment, curriculum design, and community partnerships.
    • Including Parents as Partners: Family involvement reinforces STEM learning and helps students see its relevance in everyday life.
    • Preparing Future-Ready Students: Today's STEM education develops the critical thinking and adaptability needed for tomorrow's careers.
    • Harnessing the Power of Narrative: Stories about STEM applications and innovations help students envision their own potential contributions.

    Chapters:
    • 00:00 Introduction to SmartLab and Dr. Jennifer Berry
    • 01:57 The Journey to SmartLab: Dr. Berry’s Background
    • 05:38 Understanding STEM Identity and Its Importance
    • 09:29 The Role of Educators in STEM Learning
    • 13:34 Creating a Sustainable STEM Ecosystem
    • 18:42 Community Involvement in STEM Education
    • 21:51 The Future of STEM in Education
    • 26:37 Observing Student...
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    44 m
  • AI in the Classroom: Practical Strategies that Prompt Student Success

    AI in the Classroom: Practical Strategies that Prompt Student Success
    Aug 16 2025
    In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Jeffrey Bradbury and Stephanie Clinise explore the integration of artificial intelligence in education, specifically in high school environments. They discuss the transition challenges from middle school to high school, how AI serves as a supportive tool for teachers, and the value of personalized learning approaches. Stephanie shares her firsthand experiences using AI to boost student engagement and improve learning outcomes, while addressing the limitations of standardized teaching methods. The conversation concludes with actionable advice for educators on effectively implementing AI in both their classrooms and daily routines. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."
    • Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.
    • Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.
    • Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

    Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways:
    • AI serves as a support tool for teachers, not a replacement.
    • Ninth grade represents a transformative year in students' educational journey.
    • AI enables more personalized learning experiences for students.
    • Educators should prioritize teaching appropriate AI usage to students.
    • Standardized education frameworks can successfully coexist with individualized teaching approaches.
    • AI tools reduce teacher workload and minimize decision fatigue.
    • Teachers should share their AI success stories to promote wider adoption.
    • Effective AI implementation enhances both student engagement and learning outcomes.
    • Educators benefit from experimenting with AI in their personal lives before classroom implementation.
    • Each AI tool offers distinct features and capabilities for different educational needs.

    Chapters:
    • 00:00 Introduction to AI in Education
    • 05:31 The Role of AI in High School English
    • 10:12 Utilizing AI for Personalized Learning
    • 13:27 Collaboration and AI Among Teachers
    • 16:15 Rolling Out AI in Schools
    • 19:29 Practical Applications of AI in Daily Life
    • 26:11 Exploring AI for Personal Projects
    • 29:37 Final Thoughts on AI in Education

    About our Guest: Stephanie Clinise Stephanie Clinise, M.Ed has been teaching English and Social Studies in all high school grade levels in the greater Philadelphia area for over ten years. She remains an active member of student and staff organizations in her current district, focusing on integrating educational technology and AI platforms. Stephanie works to find the best solutions for teachers, students, and staff within the technology and classroom communities while always maintaining her sense of humor and keeping the joy in education. Links of Interest
    • Website:
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    37 m
  • Navigating AI in Education with Dr. Bryan Drost

    Navigating AI in Education with Dr. Bryan Drost
    Aug 11 2025
    In this episode of Digital Learning Today, Jeff Bradbury sits down with Dr. Bryan Drost, Executive Director for Instructional Innovation in Northeast Ohio. Together, they explore AI's impact on education, how to effectively blend pedagogy with technology, and the challenges of crafting school AI policies. Dr. Drost shares valuable insights from the ISTE and ASCD conferences, highlighting the importance of developing a comprehensive curriculum that integrates digital learning. The conversation also covers practical strategies for supporting teacher technology adoption and standardizing assessment practices across classrooms. Their discussion concludes by examining future educational planning and the crucial role curriculum directors play in shaping effective instructional practices. Become a High-Impact Leader: This episode is just the beginning. To get the complete blueprint for designing and implementing high-impact systems in your district, get your copy of my book, "Impact Standards."
    • Strategic Vision for Digital Learning: Learn how to create a district-wide vision that aligns digital learning with your educational goals, transforming how standards-based instruction is designed and supported.
    • Curriculum Design and Implementation: Discover practical strategies for integrating digital learning into existing curricula, creating vertical alignment of skills, and mapping digital learning across grade levels.
    • Effective Instructional Coaching: Master the art of coaching people rather than technology, building relationships that drive success, and measuring impact through student engagement rather than just technology usage.

    Purchase your copy of “Impact Standards” on Amazon today! Key Takeaways:
    • AI is crucial in modern education and should be integrated thoughtfully.
    • Teachers need to be trained in both pedagogy and technology.
    • Clear frameworks for AI use in classrooms are essential.
    • Policies should evolve based on instructional goals, not just restrictions.
    • AI can enhance assessments but requires careful crafting of questions.
    • Collaboration among teachers is key to successful curriculum development.
    • Professional development should be ongoing and responsive to teacher needs.
    • Resistance to technology often stems from fear of de-skilling.
    • Curriculum directors play a vital role in aligning educational practices.
    • Flexibility in planning allows for innovation and adaptation in teaching.

    Chapters:
    • 00:00 Introduction to Instructional Innovation
    • 02:38 Reflections on the ISTE and ASCD Conference
    • 05:44 The Role of Pedagogy in AI Integration
    • 08:26 Defining AI in Education
    • 11:17 Creating Effective Policies for AI Use
    • 14:14 Staff Development and Technology Integration
    • 17:20 Assessing AI's Impact on Teaching
    • 20:12 Standardizing Assessments Across Classrooms
    • 23:03 Planning for the Future of Education
    • 25:59 Conclusion and Future Directions

    About our Guest: Dr. Bryan R. Drost Dr. Bryan R. Drost is the executive director for Instructional Innovation for a region of northeast Ohio. He is a faculty member at several Ohio colleges and has presented throughout the state and country on various topics related to instruction, assessment, pedagogy, data analysis and technology integration. He is a published Kappan and Educational Leadership author and is currently the Co-Chair of the NCME Classroom Assessment Committee. His current research focus is the...
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    40 m