Podcast
LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in Education
Hosted by Jamie Saponaro · EN
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.
22episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Control ALT Achieve
Mar 2700:38:59Tap to summarizeThis week, Eric Curts sits down with Jamie and Jerri to share a story that proves just how powerful one educator can be. The kind of impact that does not just shape a classroom, but an entire life.If you know Eric, you know he is all about making tech make sense. From Google tools to what is next, he has helped thousands of educators cut through the noise and focus on what actually works. Together we talk AI in education without the hype, Eric's “Wrestle, Wrap, Reflect” approach, and his newest project EduGems.ai: a space for educators to share real, usable ideas. And like everything he does, it is built to be accessible, practical, and free.---ABOUT OUR GUESTEric Curts is an EdTech Specialist based in Ohio with over 30 years in education. He began as a middle school math teacher before moving into technology integration, where he has spent decades helping educators use digital tools with purpose.He shares hundreds of free resources on AI, Google tools, accessibility, and more through ControlAltAchieve.com and EduGems.ai, along with his book Control Alt Achieve: Rebooting Your Classroom with Creative Google Projects.---SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED 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.
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EdTech: The Global View
Mar 2000:31:08Tap to summarizeWhat does edtech look like beyond your borders? This week, we're going global. Jennifer Surujpaul joins LinkedUp to share an international perspective on educational technology — what's working, what's evolving, and what's keeping leaders up at night.From the exciting possibilities of AI and innovation to the very real concerns around privacy, equity, and implementation, Jennifer brings over 25 years of experience across education, public sector, and international digital transformation to the conversation. If you've ever wondered how edtech challenges and opportunities compare around the world, this episode will stretch your thinking in all the right ways.---ABOUT OUR GUESTJennifer Surujpaul is Founder of IT Solutionist and a TransforMATive Associate specialising in digital transformation, IT strategy, cybersecurity, and compliance. With over 25 years of experience across education, local government, and international digital transformation, she helps schools and organisations integrate, secure, and optimise their IT systems for long-term sustainability. Jennifer is passionate about advancing cybersecurity resilience, AI-driven efficiencies, and building future-proof digital ecosystems that empower organisations to work smarter, safer, and more sustainably.---SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED 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.
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Beyond the AI Inflection Point
Mar 600:44:21Tap to summarizeThe rapid spread of GenAI has schools at an unprecedented inflection point. While districts may not have all the answers yet, the need to act is clear. Preparing students for a future shaped by AI requires more than reactive guardrails. It calls for thoughtful planning, clear policy, and classroom practices that put student need—not technology—first.That’s why this week we’re sitting down with Amanda Bickerstaff, CEO of AI For Education, and Sari Factor, Vice Chair and Chief Strategy Officer at Imagine Learning. They’ll share insights from their joint release, Beyond the AI Inflection Point: a new report and practical toolkit built to help schools move from uncertainty to intentional, student-centered action in the age of AI.---ABOUT OUR GUESTSAmanda Bickerstaff is the Co-Founder and CEO of AI for Education. A former high school biology teacher and EdTech CEO, she brings over 20 years of experience in the education sector. With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that AI can offer, she is a sought-after keynote speaker and leading authority on AI and education.Sari Factor, Vice Chair and Chief Strategy Officer of Imagine Learning, leads the company’s vision to empower educators and students’ potential through innovative digital-first learning solutions. A seasoned K-12 education solutions leader with over 40 years of experience, she is passionate about using technology to enhance and support teachers, and to improve student engagement and learning outcomes.---SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED 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.
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Autopilot
Feb 2000:19:31Tap to summarizeSchool leadership isn’t getting simpler. It’s getting louder, faster, and far more complex: surprise challenges, constant interruptions, a to-do list that multiplies by the hour. This week on LinkedUp, we’re joined by educator, speaker, and author Rich Czyz to talk about his new book, Autopilot, and what it really takes to lead without burning out.Rich makes the case for “going on autopilot,” not by checking out but by building smart systems that protect your time, sharpen your focus, and help you operate at your highest level. We dig into practical strategies for transforming your inbox, tightening up workflows, minimizing stress, and creating the kind of structure that allows leaders to think strategically instead of constantly reacting. If you have ever felt stuck in inefficiency, overwhelmed by distractions, or stretched thin trying to do it all, this conversation gives you permission to rethink how you work.---ABOUT OUR GUESTRich Czyz started his educational career in 2003 as a fifth-grade teacher. As an administrator, he first served as a curriculum supervisor and director of curriculum, where he learned that sometimes challenging the status quo is really the only way to do things. Rich currently serves as a Principal in New Jersey, where he enjoys participating in kickball games with students. Rich is the co-founder of the Four O’Clock Faculty blog for educators looking to improve instruction and learning for themselves and their students. Rich is passionate about engaging all stakeholders in meaningful and relevant learning. He is an author, blogger, and presenter.---SUBSCRIBE TO THE SERIES: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED 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.
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Mind Sharing
Feb 1300:30:48Tap to summarizeRobert 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 GUESTRobert 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 | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED 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.
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Purposeful Technology, Powerful Learning
Jan 3000:28:06Tap to summarizeEdtech 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 GUESTDr. 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 | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED 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.
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The Strategic Change Agenda
Jan 1600:33:29Tap to summarizeAt 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 GUESTSSteve 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 | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED 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.
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Shaping AI Literacy for Youth
Jan 900:27:51Tap to summarizeAI 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 GUESTJeffrey 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 | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED 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.
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Game Changers
Dec 1200:50:32Tap to summarizeWhat 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 GUESTJennifer 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 | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED 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.
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Vibe Coding
Dec 500:43:41Tap to summarizeAI 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 GUESTDarren 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 | OvercastFOLLOW US: Website | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedInPOWERED 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.
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