In this episode of the Teacher Transition Expert Series, Leena Marie Saleh (AKA The EdTech Guru) sits down with Jessica Maddry and Claire Smizer Muldoon, the co founders of BrightMinds, an AI powered platform built to elevate teaching and support personalized learning for every student.
Jessica and Claire share how BrightMinds was designed with educators at the center. They break down the real opportunities AI brings to classrooms, the misconceptions that scare teachers, and why ethical, human centered technology is essential for the future of learning.
Jessica brings more than 20 years of experience in education and deep expertise as a certified Ethical Emerging Technologist. Claire adds more than a decade of EdTech leadership and design experience. Together, they have created a platform that helps teachers save time, improve outcomes, and build more inclusive learning environments.
In this episode, we discuss:
If you are interested in AI, EdTech, or the future of teaching, this conversation will help you feel informed, empowered, and excited about what is possible for students and educators.
Do not forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations with leaders shaping the future of education.
Who are the BrightMinds Founders?
Jessica Maddry, Co founder and CEOJessica is a visionary leader with more than 20 years of experience designing inclusive, high impact learning programs. She is a certified Ethical Emerging Technologist known for using data driven strategies that support every student.
Claire Smizer Muldoon, Co founder and COOClaire brings more than 10 years of EdTech leadership, specializing in user experience, project management, and product development. She has worked closely with schools and EdTech organizations to build solutions that meet real classroom needs.
Together, Jessica and Claire are redefining what ethical, student centered AI can look like in classrooms around the world.
Connect with BrightMinds:
Who is 'The Edtech Guru'?
Leena Marie Saleh, aka The EdTech Guru, is dedicated to helping educators navigate career transitions and embrace innovation. With over a decade of experience, she brings real-world insights into education, EdTech, and the future of learning.
📲 Follow Leena Marie Saleh:
💌 Want to sponsor an episode?
Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
In this episode, Leena Marie Saleh (The EdTech Guru) chats with Kelsie Marks, Director of Career Transformations at Educated Exit, about what it really takes to leave the classroom and land your next dream role.
Kelsie shares her journey from teacher to career coach and breaks down how educators can identify transferable skills, optimize their LinkedIn profiles, and confidently navigate today’s job market.
We discuss how to:
This is a must-listen for any educator ready to take the next step in their career with confidence and clarity.
Who is Kelsie Marks?
Kelsie Marks is the Director of Career Transformations at Educated Exit, where she empowers educators to transition into new careers with clarity and confidence. A former teacher and school counselor, Kelsie now specializes in one-to-one coaching, resume writing, and LinkedIn optimization—helping thousands of educators identify their strengths and land meaningful roles beyond the classroom.
Connect with Kelsie:
💼 LinkedIn: Kelsie Marks
📸 Instagram: @educatedexit
🎵 TikTok: @kelsiemarks
🌐 Website: educatedexit.com
Who is 'The Edtech Guru'?
Leena Marie Saleh, aka The EdTech Guru, is dedicated to helping educators navigate career transitions and embrace innovation. With over a decade of experience, she brings real-world insights into education, EdTech, and the future of learning.
📲 Follow Leena Marie Saleh:
💌 Want to sponsor an episode?
Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
Episode 102
In this episode of the Teacher Transition Expert Series, Leena Marie Saleh (AKA The Edtech Guru) sits down with Ali Parrish, a former educator and founder of Teacher Transition, to talk about the journey from classroom teacher to thriving entrepreneur and coach.
Ali shares her powerful transition story—how she went from burnout and confusion to finding purpose and passion in helping other teachers find their next best step. She breaks down practical tips, mindset shifts, and real strategies that can help any educator take charge of their career and step into a new chapter with clarity and confidence.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
If you’re an educator wondering, “What else could I do?” This conversation will leave you feeling seen, empowered, and ready to take the next step.
🔥 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real-talk episodes from teachers who’ve made the leap—and want to help you do the same!
Who's Ali Parrish?Ali Parrish is a former classroom teacher turned entrepreneur and founder of TeacherTransition.com. Through coaching, courses, and a thriving community, she’s helped thousands of educators move into careers that align with their talents, values, and lifestyle goals.
Ali believes every teacher deserves to feel empowered in their work, and that starts with realizing how deeply valuable their skills are outside the classroom.
Connect with Ali:
Who is 'The Edtech Guru'?
Leena Marie Saleh, aka The EdTech Guru, is dedicated to helping educators navigate career transitions and embrace innovation. With over a decade of experience, she brings real-world insights into education, EdTech, and the future of learning.
📲 Follow Leena Marie Saleh:
💌 Want to sponsor an episode?
Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
Episode 101
In this episode, Leena Marie Saleh sits down with Kelsey Huson, a former high school English teacher turned full-time marketing professional, to explore the emotional and strategic steps behind her powerful career shift.
Kelsey opens up about the mental and physical toll of the classroom, how she tapped into overlooked skills like running a school Instagram and yearbook, and why taking a local hybrid role was the right first step into marketing. She also shares real tools, tips, and encouragement for educators navigating their own transition.
What You’ll Learn:
If you’re a teacher feeling burned out, uncertain, or stuck, this episode is your permission slip to explore what’s possible and build a career that aligns with your strengths and happiness.
Meet Kelsey Huson:
Kelsey is a former educator who transitioned into a thriving marketing career by leveraging her creativity and classroom experience. From designing yearbooks to running social media, she found her voice in brand storytelling and now leads marketing for a tech startup. She’s passionate about helping educators realize just how marketable their skills truly are.
Connect with Kelsey :
Who is 'The Edtech Guru'?
Leena Marie Saleh, aka The EdTech Guru, is dedicated to helping educators navigate career transitions and embrace innovation. With over a decade of experience, she brings real-world insights into education, EdTech, and the future of learning.
📲 Connect with Leena:
💌 Want to sponsor an episode?
Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
Episode 100!!!!
In this milestone episode of The EdTech Disruptor Series, Leena Marie Saleh sits down with Matt Dalio, CEO and Co-founder of Endless Studios, to explore how game development, AI, and creative collaboration are reshaping education.
Matt shares his passion for empowering students to become creators not just consumers, of technology and why traditional classrooms need to evolve to prepare learners for the modern workforce.
Whether you're an educator, EdTech leader, or just curious about how gaming and AI can change the way we learn, this episode is packed with inspiration and forward-thinking insights.
What we discuss:
This episode is a powerful reminder that education must meet students where they are and equip them to shape, not be shaped by technology.
Who is Matt Dalio?
Matt Dalio is the founder of Endless Studios, a game-making studio that introduces youth to 21st-century skills like coding, design, and collaboration. His mission is simple: if you can engage them, you can teach them.
Through the Endless Foundation, Matt also works to close the device and internet gap, ensuring that every kid in the world has access to the tools they need to become creators of technology.
Connect with Matt & Endless Studios:
Learn about Endless Studios:
Endless Studios is a youth-focused game creation studio and learning hub. Founded in partnership with E-Line Media, Endless empowers young people to transform from players to creators, equipping them with technical, creative, and life skills that prepare them for a dynamic workforce.
With a portfolio including Minecraft.Edu, Gamestar Mechanic, The Endless Mission, and XPrize Connect Code Games Challenge, Endless has touched the lives of millions of learners globally.
Their programs focus on more than just tech; they build empathy, creativity, communication, and collaboration.
Who is 'The Edtech Guru'?
Leena Marie Saleh, aka The EdTech Guru, is dedicated to helping educators navigate career transitions and embrace innovation. With over a decade of experience, she brings real-world insights into education, EdTech, and the future of learning.
📲 Connect with Leena:
💌 Want to sponsor an episode?
Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
Episode 99
In this episode of the Teacher Transition Expert Series, Leena Marie Saleh sits down with Tyrina Lassiter, a career transition coach who specializes in helping educators confidently explore life beyond the classroom.
Tyrina shares her expert insight on the biggest hurdles teachers face when changing careers, how to identify and articulate transferable skills, and the practical steps needed to land roles in corporate and nonprofit sectors.
If you’ve ever wondered what’s possible for teachers outside of education, this conversation is filled with encouragement, strategy, and real talk about navigating a meaningful transition.
What to Expect:
Why educator skills are highly valued in other industries
How to clearly define your transferable strengths
Common myths teachers believe about the non-education job market
Tips for crafting a standout resume and LinkedIn profile
Effective job search strategies tailored for former teachers
How to build a strong professional network from scratch
Insights into thriving in corporate and nonprofit roles
Why having a plan and support system is essential for success
If you’re an educator thinking about a career pivot—or simply exploring what’s out there—this episode is packed with tangible tools and motivation to help you take the next step.
🎧 Follow the show for more inspiring conversations and expert advice on career transitions for educators!
Who is Tyrina Lassiter?
Tyrina Lassiter is a career transition coach and founder of T. Lassiter Services, where she helps educators navigate the leap from the classroom into new, fulfilling career paths. With a strong background in leadership, training, and corporate development, she brings deep expertise and heart to her mission of empowering teachers to build careers they love.
Connect with Tyrina:
💼 LinkedIn: Tyrina Lassiter
🌐 Website: https://tlassiterservices.com/
About ‘The EdTech Guru’:
Leena Marie Saleh, aka The EdTech Guru, has spent more than a decade helping educators navigate career transitions, embrace innovation, and redefine what’s possible. Her mission is to provide tools, stories, and strategies to support teachers through meaningful change.
📲 Connect with Leena:
Twitter: @leenamariesaleh
Instagram: @leenamariesaleh
LinkedIn: Leena Marie Saleh
TikTok: @leenamariesalehh
💌 Want to sponsor an episode? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
(Disclaimer: The opinions shared in this episode are those of the guests and host alone.)
In this special crossover episode, Leena Marie Saleh teams up with Chris Nesi, host of the House of #EdTech podcast, to break down everything educators need to know from Canva Create 2025. From exciting updates like Canva Sheets, Magic Studio, and Canva Code to AI-powered classroom tools, this conversation is filled with practical insights to help teachers work smarter—not harder.
Whether you’re a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or tech-savvy educator looking to level up your workflow and boost student engagement, this episode is a must-listen.
How Canva Sheets is transforming lesson planning, data visualization, and collaboration
What the All-in-One Visual Suite means for newsletters, unit plans, and student portfolios
Ways to use AI tools like Magic Write and Magic Insights to auto-generate content and summarize data
How Canva Code can be used to create interactive lessons—no coding skills required!
New features like AI voiceovers, speaker notes, quiz generators, and scrollables
What’s coming soon to Canva for back-to-school and how to get ahead
How students can use these tools in creative and meaningful ways
If you’re ready to get the most out of Canva in your classroom or school, this episode has everything you need.
🔥 Don’t forget to follow the show for more behind-the-scenes EdTech breakdowns and classroom-ready ideas!
Who is Chris Nesi:
Chris Nesi is a classroom educator, podcaster, and creator of the House of #EdTech podcast. Known for his ability to simplify powerful tech tools, Chris helps educators confidently integrate innovation into their teaching practices.
Connect with Chris:
About The Edtech Guru:
Leena Marie Saleh, AKA The Edtech Guru, has spent well over a decade helping to drive change within the education space. A firm believer in the power of access and equity, Leena is passionate about empowering educators to take their skills beyond the classroom and into high-impact roles.
Connect with Leena:
Twitter/X: www.twitter.com/leenamariesaleh
Facebook: www.facebook.com/leenamariesaleh
Instagram: www.instagram.com/leenamariesaleh
Medium: medium.com/@leenamariesaleh
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/leenamariesaleh/
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@leenamariesaleh
Want to sponsor a podcast episode or know someone who would make a great guest? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
(Disclaimer: The Edtech Guru's opinions are hers and hers alone)
Episode 97
In this episode of The EdTech Disruptor Series, Leena Marie Saleh sits down with Amir Nathoo, co-founder and CEO of @Outschool, to discuss the evolving landscape of education, the rise of alternative learning models, and the role of AI in shaping the future of personalized education.
Amir shares his journey of founding Outschool, a platform that has revolutionized how students learn by providing engaging, interest-based online classes. He offers insights into the challenges and opportunities in education today, from school choice to AI-powered learning experiences.
This conversation is packed with expert insights on the intersection of technology and education. In this episode, you'll learn:
If you're passionate about the future of education and how technology is reshaping learning, this episode is a must-listen.
🔥 Don’t forget to follow the podcast for more episodes featuring education leaders and innovators!
Who is Amir Nathoo?
Amir Nathoo is the co-founder and CEO of Outschool, an online learning platform that empowers kids to learn on their own terms. A visionary tech entrepreneur, Amir has led Outschool from a startup to an EdTech unicorn, valued at $3 billion. He is passionate about self-directed learning and creating innovative solutions for the future of education.
Connect with Amir:
I just want to say how much I appreciate each and every one of you who took the time to listen to this episode. I know how valuable your time and attention are, and I truly hope this conversation gave you something meaningful in return. Thank you so much for being here—it means the world to me!
About 'The EdTech Guru':
Leena Marie Saleh, aka The EdTech Guru, has spent well over a decade helping to drive change within the education space. She firmly believes that with access and equity, we can create even greater impact.
💌 Want to sponsor a podcast episode? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
(Disclaimer: The opinions shared in this episode are those of the guests and host alone.)
In this episode of the Teacher Transition Expert Series, Leena Marie Saleh sits down with Ben Erwin, an instructional designer and former educator, to discuss the realities of transitioning from teaching to instructional design. Ben shares his personal journey, the challenges of switching careers, and the strategies that helped him land his first ID role.
This conversation is packed with real talk and actionable insights for educators looking to pivot into instructional design—or any new field.
If you're an educator thinking about instructional design—or making any big career shift—this episode gives you practical steps to start your journey with confidence.
🔥 Listen now & take the next step in your transition!
Meet Ben Erwin:
Ben Erwin is an instructional designer with a background in journalism and higher education. After years as a writing center director, he successfully transitioned into ID, where he now collaborates with faculty to design engaging online courses. Passionate about supporting educators in career shifts, Ben shares real, no-fluff advice for those looking to break into new industries.
🔗 Connect with Ben:
About The Edtech Guru:
Leena Marie Saleh, AKA The Edtech Guru, has spent well over a decade helping to drive change within the education space. A firm believer in the power of access and equity, Leena is passionate about empowering educators to take their skills beyond the classroom and into high-impact roles.
Connect with Leena:
Twitter/X: www.twitter.com/leenamariesaleh
Facebook: www.facebook.com/leenamariesaleh
Instagram: www.instagram.com/leenamariesaleh
Medium: medium.com/@leenamariesaleh
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/leenamariesaleh/
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@leenamariesaleh
Want to sponsor a podcast episode or know someone who would make a great guest? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
(Disclaimer: The Edtech Guru's opinions are hers and hers alone)
In this episode of theEdtech Disruptor Series, Leena Marie Saleh sits down withChris Hull, CEO and President ofOtus, to explore how AI-powered insights and student data are transforming education.
Chris shares his journey from seventh-grade social studies teacher to leading an edtech platform that’s reshaping how educators:
✅Use AI-driven insights to make data-informed decisions
✅Streamline assessments and personalize learning
✅Centralize student data to improve instruction
✅Enhance family engagement for student success
✅Navigate the future of AI in education over the next five years
This conversation dives deep into the evolution of classroom technology, showing how AI and data platforms can give teachers back valuable time while making learning more student-centered.
👤 Meet Chris Hull:
Chris Hull is theCEO and President of Otus, an edtech platform built to simplify student data and assessments. A former seventh-grade teacher, Chris co-founded Otus to solve real classroom challenges—giving educators a unified way to track student progress, analyze insights, and streamline instruction. Passionate about supporting teachers and advancing educational equity, Chris is driving innovation in edtech.
📲Follow Leena for More Edtech Insights:
🐦 Twitter:https://www.twitter.com/leenamariesaleh
📘 Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/leenamariesaleh
📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/leenamariesaleh
💼 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/leenamariesaleh
💌Want to sponsor an episode or suggest a guest? Contact:leena@leenamariesaleh.com
(Disclaimer: The opinions shared in this episode are those of the guests and host alone.)
In this episode, Leena Marie Saleh, also known as the Edtech Guru, interviews Mike Yates from Teach for America’s Reinvention Lab. Mike is passionate about using artificial intelligence and innovative school models like Alpha and Unbound Academy to transform education.
What to Expect:
Mike’s background and journey as an educator and innovator
Meet Mike Yates:
Mike Yates is an innovator in education, currently working at Teach for America’s Reinvention Lab. With a background in teaching and a passion for building transformative school models, Mike is redefining the future of education by integrating technology, creativity, and equity-driven practi
Connect with Mike:
LinkedIn: Mike Yates Twitter: https://twitter.com/JustMikeYates Reinvention Lab (AI): https://www.reinventionlab.org/ai
Episode Resources:
✨ Unbound Academy Charter Application: https://bit.ly/42kltue
✨ Unbound Academy LinkedIn Discussion: https://bit.ly/40DWeSA
✨ Learn more about Alpha School Austin: https://bit.ly/3CibTxC
About The Edtech Guru:
Leena Marie Saleh is passionate about empowering educators to transition their skills into high-impact roles. With over a decade of experience in education, she is dedicated to driving change and advocating for access and equity.
Connect with Leena:
🐦 Twitter/X: www.twitter.com/leenamariesaleh
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/leenamariesaleh
📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/leenamariesaleh
✍️ Medium: medium.com/@leenamariesaleh
💼 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/leenamariesaleh/
🎥 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@leenamariesaleh
💌 Want to sponsor a podcast episode or recommend a guest? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
(Disclaimer: The Edtech Guru's opinions are hers and hers alone.)
Episode 93:
In this episode of the Edtech Disruptor Series, Leena Marie Saleh, the Edtech Guru, sits down with Katherine Hamilton, Vice President of Programs at Ensemble Learning, to explore how equity and innovation are transforming education for multilingual learners.
Katherine shares her journey in education, the mission of Ensemble Learning, and practical strategies to support educators, students, and school communities. They discuss everything from improving classroom walkthroughs to leveraging Edtech for multilingual learners, offering actionable ideas to make meaningful changes in schools.
This episode is filled with insights for educators, leaders, and advocates who want to create opportunities where all learners can thrive.
About Katherine Hamilton:
Katherine Hamilton serves as Vice President of Programs at Ensemble Learning, leading initiatives that strengthen educational environments for multilingual learners. With degrees from Stanford and Yale, she brings a wealth of experience to her advocacy and leadership in education.
Connect with Katherine: ➢ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-hamilton-176b1b4a/ ➢ Email: khamilton@ensemblelearning.org
About Ensemble Learning:
Ensemble Learning partners with schools to create equitable opportunities for students, focusing on innovation, collaboration, and leadership development. Learn more at https://ensemblelearning.org.
Connect with Katherine: ➢ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-hamilton-176b1b4a/ ➢ Email: khamilton@ensemblelearning.org
-------------
About The Edtech Guru:
Leena Marie Saleh is passionate about empowering educators to transition their skills into high-impact roles. With over a decade of experience in education, she is dedicated to driving change and advocating for access and equity.
Connect with Leena:
🐦 Twitter/X: www.twitter.com/leenamariesaleh
📘 Facebook: www.facebook.com/leenamariesaleh
📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/leenamariesaleh
✍️ Medium: medium.com/@leenamariesaleh
💼 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/leenamariesaleh/
🎥 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@leenamariesaleh
💌 Want to sponsor a podcast episode or recommend a guest? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
(Disclaimer: The Edtech Guru's opinions are hers and hers alone.)
In this insightful episode, Leena Marie Saleh, AKA The Edtech Guru, sits down with Stephanie Yesil, founder of Elevated Careers, to uncover the secrets behind a successful teacher transition. Stephanie shares her journey from the classroom to a six-figure corporate career and her mission to empower educators to break through the barriers of career change.
Join Leena and Stephanie as they dive into:
The biggest challenges educators face when transitioning to corporate roles
Psychology-backed strategies to make a lasting impression in interviews
Networking tips that open doors to new opportunities
The importance of mindset and preparation for successful career transitions
This episode is packed with actionable advice, inspiring stories, and practical tools to help educators take the next step in their professional journey. If you’ve been considering a career move, this conversation is one you can’t miss.
About The Edtech Guru: Leena Marie Saleh, AKA The Edtech Guru, has spent well over a decade helping to drive change within the education space. A firm believer in the power of access and equity, Leena is passionate about empowering educators to take their skills beyond the classroom and into high-impact roles.
Connect with Leena:
Twitter/X: www.twitter.com/leenamariesaleh
Facebook: www.facebook.com/leenamariesaleh
Instagram: www.instagram.com/leenamariesaleh
Medium: medium.com/@leenamariesaleh
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/leenamariesaleh/
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@leenamariesaleh
Want to sponsor a podcast episode or know someone who would make a great guest? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
(Disclaimer: The Edtech Guru's opinions are hers and hers alone)
In this heartfelt episode, Leena Marie Saleh, AKA The Edtech Guru, returns after 1.5 years with a raw and real life update. Sit down with Leena as she shares the journey that’s been unfolding behind the scenes—the highs, the lows, and the insights that have shaped her path as an educator and Edtech advocate.
Join Leena for an intimate chat where she dives into her experiences over the past year and a half, the lessons learned, and how her perspective on education, career, and personal growth has evolved. It’s like catching up with an old friend—grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s reconnect.
About The Edtech Guru:
Leena Marie Saleh aka The Edtech Guru has spent well over a decade helping to drive change within the education space. The Edtech Guru is a firm believer that with access and equity, we can drive even greater change.
Connect with Leena:
Want to sponsor a podcast episode or know someone who would make a great guest? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
(Disclaimer: The Edtech Guru's opinions are hers and hers alone)
In this episode, Leena Marie Saleh, also known as the Edtech Guru, interviews Patrick Boylan, co-founder of MuseFlow.ai. Patrick is passionate about transforming music education through innovative technology, making it more engaging and accessible for learners.
What to Expect:
Meet Patrick Boylan: Patrick is a skilled multi-instrumentalist and a dedicated self-educator who co-founded MuseFlow, an AI-powered piano training web app. His vision is to revolutionize music learning by emphasizing gamified experiences and personalized progress, empowering students to play music with confidence and joy.
Connect with Patrick:
About The Edtech Guru:
Leena Marie Saleh aka The Edtech Guru has spent well over a decade helping to drive change within the education space. The Edtech Guru is a firm believer that with access and equity, we can drive even greater change.
Connect with Leena:
Want to sponsor a podcast episode or know someone who would make a great guest? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
(Disclaimer: The Edtech Guru's opinions are hers and hers alone)
#EdTech #MusicEducation #AI #GamifiedLearning #EdTechDisruptors
In this episode, Leena Marie Saleh, also known as the Edtech Guru, interviews Rachel Bodily, a former educator who successfully transitioned out of the classroom. Rachel is the founder of MYP Math Tutor and currently serves as the Associate Director of Learning & Engagement at Toddle.
What to Expect:
Meet Rachel Bodily:
With over a decade of experience as an IB MYP mathematics teacher and coordinator at the International School of Amsterdam, Rachel saw the need for tailored learning solutions and founded MYP Math Tutor. Now at Toddle, she combines her love for project management and event coordination with her passion for meaningful connections and EdTech.
Connect with Rachel:
About Leena Marie Saleh:
Leena, the Edtech Guru, is dedicated to driving change in education, focusing on access and equity. Tune in to our episodes on your favorite podcast platform.
Listen & Subscribe:
Connect with Leena:
Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact Leena at leena@leenamariesaleh.com.
#TeacherTransition #EdTech #EducationReform
Episode 88
In this episode, Leena Marie Saleh, AKA the Edtech Guru sits down with none other than Elisabeth (Lis) Bostwick. Lis is an author, podcaster, former educator and currently a Canva Learning Consultant. Leena and Lis sit down to talk about how you can empower students with choice in your classroom, tools to get started with in to integrate edtech in your classroom and why building a community is so important for educators.
In this interview Leena and Lis dicuss the following:
Who is Elisabeth Bostwick?
Elisabeth Bostwick is a multi-award-winning educator who is passionate about creating the conditions to spark curiosity and unleash creativity to empower learning. She is the author of, Take the L.E.A.P.: Ignite a Culture of Innovation and co-author of Education Write Now, Volume II: Top Strategies for Improving Relationships and Culture. As an Innovative Teaching and Learning Consultant and Canva Learning Consultant, Elisabeth works alongside educators to create classroom cultures where every learner thrives. With her passion for creating a long-lasting, positive impact on education, Elisabeth supports others to identify how we can cultivate systemic change and develop essential success skills to ignite a movement of inspired, confident learners.
Connect with Elisabeth Bostwick:
About The Edtech Guru:
Leena Marie Saleh aka The Edtech Guru has spent well over a decade helping to drive change within the education space. The Edtech Guru is a firm believer that with access and equity, we can drive even greater change.
Connect with Leena:
Want to sponsor a podcast episode or know someone who would make a great guest? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com
(Disclaimer: The Edtech Guru's opinions are hers and hers alone)
Episode 87
In this installment of the Teacher Transition Expert series, Leena Marie Saleh, the Edtech Guru, sits down with Jascelyn Gause. Jascelyn is a Teacher Transition Expert and a current Content Designer at Brainpop. In this interview, Leena and Jascelyn sit down to discuss:
This interview was a fun one for Leena. She loved how real Jascelyn was and how she shared the realities of a teacher transitioner and why you have to hone in on one avenue to make your transition a true reality. Who is Jascelyn Gause? Jascelyn Gause is a former science and social studies educator of nine years. While in the classroom, she was chosen as teacher of the year twice, in 2016 and 2021, for being a pioneer of implementing new programs and techniques that led to vast student success, both academically and socially. In 2021, she dared to dream BIG and decided to leave the classroom to become a content designer at BrainPOP, where she designs learning activities for the BrainPOP essentials product. In July 2022, she joined the DEI committee at BrainPOP as the Spaces Committee Chair where she has worked to coordinate and facilitate brave spaces where employees feel open and safe to share their experiences to further learning and promote positive change throughout the organization. She is also certified scrum master and product owner and loves to implement agile principles into all aspects of her life. While her career is important, her biggest role is as a wife and mother of two children, Journey and Justice. Her other passion includes supporting other educators explore opportunities outside of the classroom. In November 2021, she started a community for transitioning educators, The Evolving Educators Group, which provides free resources for educators looking to transition out of education. The group had over 700 members and has provided resources, such as connections to mentorships and jobs, to its members, and now she is offering those same tips on LinkedIn. Connect with Jascelyn ➢ Via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jascelyngause/ ➢ Visit her website: https://wlo.link/@jascelyngause
About 'The Edtech Guru': Leena Marie Saleh, aka The Edtech Guru, has spent well over a decade helping to drive change within the education space. The Edtech Guru firmly believes that we can drive even greater change with access and equity. Connect with us: Twitter: www.twitter.com/leenamariesaleh Facebook: www.facebook.com/leenamariesaleh Instagram: www.instagram.com/leenamariesaleh Medium: medium.com/@leenamariesaleh Clubhouse: @leenamariesaleh LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/leenamariesaleh/ Want to sponsor a podcast episode? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com #teachertransition #edxit #transitioningteacher (Disclaimer: The Edtech Guru's opinions are hers and hers alone)
Episode 86 In this episode, Leena Marie Saleh (AKA the Edtech Guru) has the pleasure to sit down with Christopher Nesi, podcaster, educator, edtech enthusiast, professor, and founder of the Education Podcast Network, to discuss the power of podcasting in the classroom and beyond. Leena has been a superfan of Chris for a VERY long time, and it's his first time on the show.
Leena and Chris discuss:
But don't worry, that's all. This episode is full of thought leadership and a ton of laughter. Meet Christopher Nesi: Christopher J. Nesi is a passionate educator, podcast host, and thought leader. With over 15 years of experience in the classroom, Chris has dedicated his career to helping educators integrate technology effectively and meaningfully into their instruction. Chris holds a Bachelor's degree in History and a Master's degree in Curriculum Design & Instruction. He also has his Supervisor's certification. As a forward-thinking educator, Chris has presented at numerous local and national conferences, sharing his knowledge and expertise with fellow educators. His engaging presentations are renowned for their practical approach to implementing technology in the classroom and their focus on creating student-centered learning experiences. In addition to his work in the classroom, Nesi is the host and producer of the popular podcast, "House of #EdTech." This platform allows him to explore emerging trends and innovations in education, as well as interview influential educators and technology leaders from around the world. Through his podcast, Chris strives to empower educators to embrace the ever-evolving landscape of educational technology. Chris is also a co-host of PodcastPD. He is also available to offer keynote addresses, professional development workshops, and coaching for schools and districts looking to enhance their technology integration initiatives. His ability to inspire educators and drive change has made him a valuable asset to the educational community. When he's not immersed in the world of education, Christopher enjoys spending time with his family and podcasting about the Yankees. He firmly believes that by empowering educators and leveraging technology, we can shape the future of education and prepare students for success in the 21st century.
Connect with Chris:
Want to start your own podcast? Learn more below:
Episode 84:
In this episode, Leena Marie Saleh (AKA the Edtech Guru) sits down with Tim Lo, Founder of @yournextjump9818 a career coach and resume services provider. Tim has an extensive background in helping others transition to new career pathways.
In this interview, Leena and Tim discuss:
Tell us your biggest takeaways and how you found your next role by sharing in the comments below!
▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼
Meet Tim Lo:
Tim is from Fishkill, New York, and went to school at Carnegie Mellon for both his undergraduate and master’s degrees. Tim has over a decade of experience in business strategy and process improvement. He has worked for several top-tier international consulting firms and has been involved in the hiring of many new team members. He volunteers as a mentor to many recent grads and moonlights as a serial entrepreneur. Tim is a PARW/CC certified resume writer and professional career coach. In 2020, he and a friend started Your Next Story, a non-profit organization that provides employment preparation and placement for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Connect with Tim:
About Find Your Next Jump:
Dream big. Plan meticulously. Launch your career with confidence.
We built Your Next Jump to help everyone have the best opportunity at landing their dream job – from new grads to executive leaders.
Connect with Leena:
Want to sponsor a podcast episode? Contact: leena@leenamariesaleh.com