Capital Class podcast

45:41

In this episode of Capital Class, host Adam Giery sits down with Jeff Cohen, CEO of FullBloom, a leading provider of special education, instructional intervention, and behavioral health solutions. With a wealth of experience in both education and private equity, Jeff Cohen shares insights into the evolving needs of students requiring special accommodations and the crucial role of public-private partnerships in meeting these demands. Cohen discusses the significant increase in students requiring special education, rising from 8% in 2000 to 14% in recent years, and the growing awareness around diagnoses such as autism. FullBloom steps in to help school systems address these challenges, providing specialized services to support students with severe behavioral needs, trauma backgrounds, and diagnosed disabilities. Throughout the conversation, Cohen emphasizes the importance of early intervention, the integration of education and healthcare, and the power of partnership in driving better outcomes for students. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how specialized education solutions, in partnership with school systems, are transforming the educational experience for students with unique needs, ultimately creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. Timestamps 00:00 Special education needs evolving with increased demand. 03:51 Increasing autism challenges schools, partners assist. 07:31 We enhance the school system for specific needs. 11:20 Education and healthcare intersect in addressing needs. 15:17 95% of special ed kids can thrive academically. 17:17 Proper support enables all students to succeed. 20:28 Empower You SEL program utilizes asynchronous coaching. 23:55 Public-private partnerships improve education outcomes. 27:55 Catapult: Largest private US teacher employer, 8,000+. 32:06 Investment community committed to education mission. 36:41 Impressed by talent at Fullbloom leadership meeting. 38:09 Success is team improvement and incredible colleagues. 41:36 Our destiny hinges on prioritizing decisions effectively. Connect with Jeff Cohen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-cohen-35097038 Website: https://fullbloom.org/…

Capital Class

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Insights on AI and Education from Benchmark Education CEO Tom Reycraft 23:05

22 weeks ago23:05

23:05

In this episode of Capital Class, host Adam Giery sits down with special guest Tom Reycraft, CEO of Benchmark Education, to explore his incredible 25-year journey in the education industry, from starting a business in his basement to navigating industry shifts and technological advancements. They discuss the evolving landscape of educational materials, the impact of AI, and the importance of research-driven products and professional development. Tom also shares insights on the cyclical nature of educational trends, the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, and his passion for family, exercise, and travel. Tune in to hear about Tom's vision for the future of American education and his dedication to the mission of empowering students and teachers through literacy and language arts. Timestamps 00:00 Content development evolved with effective instructional strategies. 05:00 Increased emphasis on research-based foundational skills. 09:10 Teachers need professional development for updated skills. 13:33 Navigating risk in education, learning from challenges. 16:50 Eager to witness growth committed to education. 18:41 Passionate architect prioritizes family and business. 21:22 Benchmark Education produces fine podcasts featuring experts. Connect with Tom Reycraft LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-reycraft-59a53b6 Website: https://www.benchmarkeducation.com/…

Capital Class

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Peter Yorke: Empowering Diverse Classrooms and Teaching Beyond Degrees 29:00

28 weeks ago29:00

29:00

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of education and the challenges faced by educators. Our guest, Peter Yorke, is a dedicated middle school educator specializing in special education at Manor Middle School, Texas. He shares his journey from his roots in Ghana to making a remarkable impact in the United States education system. We explore the educational challenges Peter Yorke overcame in Ghana and the differences he encountered in the U.S. education system. He passionately advocates for re-evaluating the traditional qualifications for teaching and promoting culturally responsive and inclusive classrooms that cater to the diverse needs of students. Join us as Adam and Peter underscore the Important role of family, community, and interventions in ensuring student success while debunking common misconceptions about what it takes to be an effective teacher. Timestamps 00:00 Transitioning from Africa to the US education. 06:31 Limited resources and challenges shaped the school experience. 09:28 Education should reflect diverse cultural experiences. 12:16 Capital Class by Adam Giery, Strategos Network 15:46 Education opportunities in America motivate me. 20:00 Educators should give all children equal opportunities. 25:40 Be patient, work as a team, stay realistic. Connect with Peter Yorke Website: https://manormiddle.manorisd.net/…

Capital Class

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AI in Child Education and the Power of Interaction with Bridget Hamre 37:47

35 weeks ago37:47

37:47

In today's episode, Dr. Bridget Hamre, co-founder and CEO of Teachstone joins Adam Giery to discuss early childhood education and the role AI plays in personalized learning. Bridget shares her inspiring journey from academia to building a successful education enterprise. She emphasizes the importance of quality interactions in early education, the economic benefits of investing in young learners, and the challenges of scaling impactful research. Intending to reach 20 million children in five years, Teachstone aims to ensure that every child has access to nurturing and impactful educational experiences. Join us as we uncover the groundbreaking work shaping early childhood education’s future and learn valuable insights from Bridget’s personal and professional experiences. Timestamps 00:00 Daycare evolving into early childcare education, critical. 03:58 Early childhood investments yield high economic returns. 08:37 Parental interactions are crucial for early brain development. 12:22 Organization develops methodology, trains observers, and supports educators. 14:28 Core skills are essential for academics and life. 18:38 Improving AI for teaching, individualized and interactive. 20:46 Research led to the development of a successful company. 25:33 Studying correlation, system design, and improvement ideas. 30:05 Measuring interactions in classrooms for child development. 31:29 Vision work impacting 2M children, aiming for 20M. 34:54 Importance of social and emotional skills in education Connect with Bridget Hamre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-hamre-534a2940/ Website: https://teachstone.com/…

Capital Class

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Empowering Teachers and Inspiring Students: Project Lead the Way's Approach to Education 46:11

45 weeks ago46:11

46:11

I'm your host, Adam Giery, and today we have a very special guest joining us on the show. Dr. Dave Dimmett, the CEO of Project Lead the Way, will be sharing his insights and expertise on the growing demand for STEM programs in education, and how they are shaping the future of learning. Get ready to be inspired as we explore the importance of hands-on experiences, collaboration, and creative problem-solving skills in preparing students for successful careers. Dimmett will also discuss the role of Project Lead the Way in partnering with businesses and industries to meet their recruitment needs. Stay tuned as we uncover the secrets to engaging students, empowering teachers, and redefining the traditional pathway from high school to career. Plus, Dimmett will share his journey and reflections on continuous learning, as well as his vision for the future of education. You won't want to miss this insightful and thought-provoking conversation. Let's dive right into this captivating episode of Capital Class with Dave Dimmett. Timestamps 05:37 Opportunities to improve teaching and learning abound. 08:20 Teacher and student empowerment through project-based learning. 13:12 Effort to refresh career pathways, keep learning. 14:34 Integrating content for relevance in education. 17:52 Ongoing learning crucial, alternative credentials gaining value. 23:34 Dimmett talks about how companies engaging young people and connecting with schools is important 25:55 How early experiences are shaping, and why team is important. 30:04 Why teaching needs to be lifted as a profession. 31:41 Reflection on learning, growth, leadership, encouraging ownership, and exciting opportunities. 41:15 Learning from stoic philosophers, modern life, Wim Hof, and blue zones for longevity. 43:21 Discussion around future homes, office changes, telemedicine, technology trends. Connect with Dave Dimmett LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daviddimmett/ Website: https://www.pltw.org/ Produced by Old Soul…

Capital Class

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Andrew Rozell on Upgrading Educational Outcomes and Teacher Support 45:04

52 weeks ago45:04

45:04

In today’s episode, iTeach president Andrew Rozell shares the challenges of leading a rapidly growing business while staying true to the mission of transforming education. From wearing multiple hats in the early days to expanding into new states, Andrew’s story with iTeach is truly inspiring. We explore how this visionary leader navigates the complexities of educational policy, advocating for legislative changes to support new teachers and pushing for greater accountability and transparency in recruitment. Andrew discusses the importance of focusing on meaningful results, emphasizing the vital role of technology—especially AI—in the future of education. We also touch on the personal side of Andrew’s role, from the dynamics of working with family to the joy of coaching his sons’ basketball team. His story unveils the weight of leadership and the balancing act of managing partnerships, growth, and team morale. Join us for a Capital Class conversation with Andrew Rozell—a compelling discussion about the heart of teaching and the strategic challenges in education. Timestamps 00:00 Positive outlook for the teaching profession's resurgence. 06:03 Career changers bring impactful real-world experiences. 08:10 Supportive parent-teacher relationships benefit classroom dynamics. 12:55 Student teaching transition, a support system for teachers. 15:31 Challenges with teacher certification and licensing in Texas 19:42 Accountability in teacher licensing extended in Virginia. 23:18 Transition from broker to president, program expansion. 24:56 Challenges and variety in early business operations. 30:23 First time in new states, faced challenges. 33:32 Soliciting quality leads and empowering aspiring educators. 35:16 Training for teachers to switch content areas. 37:55 Scheduling time for contemplation and strategic planning. 41:35 Resisting the temptation to broadcast busyness and prioritize productivity. Connect with Andrew Rozell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arozell/ Website: https://iteach.net/…

Capital Class

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Navigating the Challenges of Education: From Doubts to Success in Low-Income Schools 43:40

1 year ago43:40

43:40

In today's episode, we have a special guest joining us, Karim Abouelnaga! Abouelnaga is a remarkable individual who is on a mission to revolutionize the education system. Abouelnaga shares his unique perspective, experiences, and insights, challenging the status quo and discussing the barriers faced by underprivileged students. From the struggles of language difficulties to the importance of representation and the impact of teachers, Abouelnaga leaves no stone unturned as he advocates for change. Get ready to be inspired and enlightened as we dive into this thought-provoking conversation with Karim Abouelnaga on Capital Class. Timestamps [00:04:44] Insecurity and doubt about college and future. [00:07:29] Education system keeps poor people and POC down. [00:13:41] Realizing the power to defy statistics. [00:19:19] Urban schools need better teachers and facilities. [00:21:25] Don't measure resilience in schools. [00:24:16] Money measures success, promotes innovation, and serves children. [00:27:48] Business as a vehicle for purposeful work. [00:32:44] Purpose and mission drive decision-making, and growth. [00:40:02] Doing what I love brings me joy. [00:42:27] Weekly NPR shows challenges and inspires thinking for Abouelnaga. Connect with Karim Abouelnaga LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karimabouelnaga/ Website: https://www.karimabouelnaga.com/ Produced by Old Soul…

Capital Class

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Empowering Teachers, Engaging Students: The Success Story of Legends of Learning with Sandy Roskes 38:06

1 year ago38:06

38:06

In today's episode, we have a fascinating guest joining us. Sandy Roskes, the co-founder of Legends of Learning and the EVP of District Partnerships at Hooked on Phonics. Here's the question: Can we actually learn from games? Today, Sandy Roskes will shed light on this intriguing topic. Roskes’ research studies focus on the efficacy of using games in education. His findings not only refined his ideas but also served as the motivation to launch a company. Throughout this episode, Roskes will discuss the process of building a startup, identifying the product-market fit, and the importance of constantly tweaking and adjusting the product to achieve success. He will also share insights on the Science of Reading and how systematic instruction, combined with promoting the joy of reading, can have a profound impact on students. . Timestamps [00:02:16] Confluence of technology enables game-based learning. [00:04:26] COVID-19 heightened technology use in classrooms. Initially met with skepticism, but research later validated game-based learning efficacy. [00:08:10] Gamification rewards behavior, game-based learning is for instructional games. [00:14:46] Legends of Learning launched with 50 teachers. [00:19:34] Succession planning is important for startups. The excitement lies in creating from scratch. Building up teams, reaching a certain scale and then handing over for new beginnings. [00:23:08] Business builder focused on early-stage startups. [00:25:48] Build impactful businesses through growth and value. [00:29:34] Hooked on Phonics: Name recognition, the Science of Reading implementation in K-12 education. [00:30:45] Educator experience wrapped around a core material, was effective in teaching kids to read. [00:36:42] Rediscovering Seven Habits for success in life. Connect with Sandy Roskes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandy-roskes/ Website: https://www.legendsoflearning.com/ Produced by Old Soul…

Capital Class

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Navigating the AI Revolution and its Impact on Tech & Education with Skip Hansen 43:19

1 year ago43:19

43:19

In this episode of Capital Class, Adam Giery sits down with Skip Hansen. They explore the pressing issues facing the education system and the innovative solutions that Lifelong Learning and Learn4Life are implementing to make a difference. The conversation spans challenges pregnant teens face in school to providing industry connections and skills training for 18-year-old adults seeking jobs. Lifelong Learning is revolutionizing education by focusing on individual needs and creating opportunities for success. Join us as we discuss the impact of AI on jobs, the crucial need for trade skills in our evolving workforce, and how Lifelong Learning and Learn4Life are positively impacting communities through their unique approach to education. Timestamps [00:00:55] How education can adapt to support diverse student needs. [00:05:13] Young man gets a job, and can't attend school. [00:09:52] Connecting kids to jobs through training. [00:12:15] School boards need more business-oriented thinking. Inner city districts need more innovation for job preparation. [00:14:36] Homelessness is linked to a lack of education and COVID-related gaps. [00:18:24] AI threatens tech sector jobs, but not the trades [00:21:09] The journey of scaling a niche business to serve kids. [00:24:33] How a high school diploma changed a dad’s life. [00:28:23] Expansion success with trained staff and support [00:33:57] Dream: Major business owner sponsors school placement. [00:35:30] Private-public school partnership: School 2.0 of the future. [00:39:11] Education needs to change and schools must adapt and diversify. Connect with Skip Hansen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skip-hansen/ Website: https://llac.org/ Produced by Old Soul…

Capital Class

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Capitalizing on Innovation: How Proximity Learning is Transforming the Education Landscape 47:43

2 years ago47:43

47:43

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of education and the challenges educators face. Our guest, Evan Erdberg, founder and CEO of Proximity Learning, shares his journey and insights into transforming the education system. From managing a team and remote instruction to the impact of COVID-19, Evan sheds light on the struggles faced by teachers and the need for innovation. Join us as we explore the importance of creating a supportive environment for educators while reimagining education for the benefit of our students. Timestamps [00:06:26] Teachers face new challenges and are leaving the profession. [00:11:00] The education system is stuck in an outdated model. [00:15:18] Innovative, student-driven education with professional teachers. [00:18:37] Passionate educators deserve our gratitude and support. [00:23:16] How a chemistry teacher shortage led to remote teaching. [00:26:19] Funding, remote learning, and the uphill battle for education. [00:28:56] Challenges Evan faced throughout his entrepreneurial journey. [00:34:14] Student enrollment leading to change defines success. [00:39:37] How a busy dad of three finds work energizing. [00:45:21] AI tutor implementation in progress for students. Connect with Evan Erdberg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-erdberg-0054921/ Website: https://www.proxlearn.com/ Produced by Old Soul…

Capital Class

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Life Skills and Healthy Choices: Empowering Kids Through Cooking with Rainbow Chef's Academy 45:17

2 years ago45:17

45:17

On this episode of Capital Class, Adam Giery sits down with Svetlana Elgart, the founder, and CEO of Rainbow Chef's Academy. Svetlana passionately shares how Rainbow Chefs Academy fosters literacy, math, history, and science through the art of cooking. Get ready to explore the hidden layers of knowledge that sizzle within every dish, enriching young minds with practical skills and essential wisdom. Timestamps 1:17 - Importance of teaching kids how to take care of themselves and cook healthy meals 2:45 - Teaching kids life skills and making healthy choices in their diets 3:30 - Cooking incorporates literacy, math, science, and history 4:10 - American society's fast-paced lifestyle and its impact on health 9:08 - Hands-on component of the program where students make their own food 9:45 - Alignment of the program with educational standards 11:10 - Transition from in-person classes to a SaaS platform 13:33 - Success during the pandemic and delivery of food and backpacks 20:15 - Engagement level and understanding of students in cooking 23:00 - Starting the company to address the lack of healthy eating and nutrition education 27:10 - Challenges faced in starting the business and lack of awareness about nutrition 29:00 - Influence of immigrant background on persistence and determination 31:17 - Reflection on immigrant experiences and struggles 34:40 - Comparing daily struggles in Ukraine to live in the US Connect with Svetlana Elgart LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/svetlanaelgart/ Website: https://rainbowchefsacademy.com/ Produced by Old Soul…

Capital Class

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How One Founder's Contrarian Mindset Led to Success in Venture Capital 1:00:31

2 years ago1:00:31

1:00:31

On this episode of Capital Class, we welcome Ryan Whittemore, an experienced venture capitalist. Whittemore shares their successful journey in the industry, breaking down the challenges and strategies they used to achieve their goals. They discuss the importance of developing a clear financial forecast, how to create a well-prepared deck for investors, and the process of finding solid businesses with long-term growth potential. Whittemore also talks about the sustainability of the venture capital market, how to handle feedback, and the importance of treating people right. Join us for an insightful discussion on the successful path to becoming a venture capitalist. Timestamps: [00:03:02] Florida's tech scene thrives despite setbacks. [00:06:47] Venture capital funding depends on strategy and diligence. [00:10:12] Investors need to know what they're doing. [00:13:18] Investments based on solid businesses, not fads. [00:17:35] More deals mean better investment choices. [00:21:34] Sleepless deal-driven nights, family struggles. [00:26:27] Be prepared with a clear pitch deck. [00:31:02] Feedback and persistence lead to success. [00:35:44] Venture investment is challenging due to equity balance. [00:41:57] Forecast revenue scenarios impress investors, be credible. [00:46:03] Persistence pays off in the venture capital industry. [00:51:42] Treating people right for successful investment business. [00:54:41] Meeting Florida Funders, Tampa, Silicon Valley, progress. [00:58:56] Intellectual and diverse with challenging ideas. ============================= Learn more about Strategos Group: https://www.strategosgroup.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategos-group-public-affairs/ 🚨 Subscribe to the Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@strategospodcastnetwork ============================= PODCASTS 🎧 Capital Class with Adam Giery: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast 🎧 On the Clock with Todd Dallas Lamb: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast-on-the-clock 🎧 Swimming Upstream with Tom Luna: https://swimming-upstream.captivate.fm/listen 🎧 On Balance with Dr. Rod Berger: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast-on-balance Produced by Old Soul ============================= #educationmanagement #educationleadership #education…

Capital Class

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Technology Developed for Teachers Provides Fully Adaptive Personalized Instruction 50:51

2 years ago50:51

50:51

In this episode of Capital Class, Adam Giery sits down with Mohannad Arbaji, Founder and CEO of ChalkTalk, to discuss a journey that shaped the development of teacher-led and humanized personalized learning for students throughout the world. Arbaji discusses his early beginnings as an international student that embraced a love for education as a vehicle of opportunity. He expands on entrepreneurial shifts that opened his eyes to the ultimate importance of finding tech solutions that provide teachers with the resources and support necessary to advance learning. According to Arbaji, building education technology that listens to educators with actionable steps far outweighs promises of disruptive revolutionary change. Instead of asking teachers to spend hours training on technology, the most effective tech tools function behind the scenes, augmenting instruction for continuous student learning. Listen to learn about the development of ChalkTalk, funding strategies, and lessons learned along the way, where passion for student learning and increased engagement act as an undercurrent of entrepreneurial growth. What You Will Discover: • 00:00 Episode Begins • 02:50 Arbaji shares his coming to America story, plus the backstory of how ChalkTalk was founded. • 08:10 How his Jordanian culture, love for education, and immigration inspired his drive. • 13:07 Why building what people needed worked instead of disrupting or changing. • 19:50 The importance of building technology that people need to solve their problems. • 22:08 How ChalkTalk impacts students with confidence and motivation that tech doesn’t offer. • 24:27 The exceptional qualities that make teachers great in connecting with students. • 28:03 The features ChalkTalk is using to make life easier for teachers and reduce burnout. • 30:37 ChalkTalk’s fundraising journey to bring in the right investors that add value and credibility. • 35:48 The importance of driving for progress and staying in alignment with investors. • 38:58 Top ways to measure a tech company's tangible and intangible progress. • 42:46 How Arbaji relaxes to balance the pressure of work and life. • 47:34 The fast-forward questions with Arbaji. Connect with Mohannad Arbaji • Websites: https://chalktalk.com/ & https://www.mohannadarbaji.com/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohannadarbaji/ Produced by Old Soul…

Capital Class

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The Impact of Innovative Technologies on Education with Scott Kinney 56:03

2 years ago56:03

56:03

The Impact of Innovative Technologies on Education In this episode of Capital Class, we are joined by Scott Kinney, Chief Executive Officer at Discovery Education. Scott is a thought leader and influential voice in the education sector, dedicated to supporting the success of every student and teacher. His commitment is demonstrated in three decades of steadfast work and experience in the fields of professional learning and educational technology. Scott shares the efforts behind building a business based on value and impact, including how Discovery Education accelerated growth during and after the pandemic. In addition, he explores the early days of the internet in education and the evolving environment that is better leveraging and implementing the growth of technology. Listen in to also learn how technology is making a difference in the classroom by providing teachers with impactful digital tools that integrate and enhance learning objectives. What You Will Discover: • 00:00 Episode Begins • 02:03 Scott’s journey as an educator and his love for the role of technology in education. • 04:23 How Discovery started as a video-on-demand service in the early days of the internet. • 07:16 How the early days of the internet looked like in the education sector. • 09:20 How the education system is looking to leverage the growing technology. • 13:37 How Discovery innovates and experiments with new technology. • 16:16 The specifics that Discovery looks at when going for an acquisition. • 20:58 The importance of developing a culture of “swing and miss” to innovate. • 25:17 The top qualities Scott looks for in talent acquisition. • 30:13 Why Discovery Education detached from Discovery Channel and the lessons they took. • 35:53 The importance of staying on the path to making the biggest impact possible. • 38:26 How momentum & the pandemic accelerated growth. • 41:36 How technology is providing teachers with impactful digital tools that make a difference. • 46:11 Scott on how he spends his time away from his business to refuel. • 52:11 Four Fast-forward questions with Scott. Connect with Scott • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-kinney-2587053/ Produced by Old Soul…

Capital Class

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The Future of The Internet for Educators with Saif Ishoof | Founder of Lab22c 1:02:15

2 years ago1:02:15