The Good Life EDU Podcast

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we explore Nebraska 250—the state’s effort to commemorate the nation’s upcoming semi-quincentennial through learning, creativity, and community connection.We're joined by Bre Wilton, Social Studies Content Specialist at the Nebraska Department of Education; Cody Talarico, Arts Education Specialist at NDE; and Anne Alston, Arts Education Program Specialist at the Nebraska Arts Council. Together, they unpack how a cross-agency collaboration led to the My Nebraska, Our America Public Art Design Challenge, a statewide opportunity for students to explore history, civic identity, and sense of place through public art. The conversation highlights how educators—across grade levels, content areas, and learning environments—can use a flexible, standards-aligned toolkit to help students design public art that reflects both local stories and national ideals. Listeners will also learn how student artwork can be submitted for a statewide exhibition, including a traveling display at the Nebraska State Capitol, the Museum of Nebraska Art, and the Nebraska Department of Education. Referenced Links & Resources Nebraska 250 Art Challenge website: www.ne250artchallenege.com Contact email: neartschallenge@gmail.com

Nebraska is exploring a new approach to addressing teacher shortages—one that invites experienced professionals to bring their real-world expertise directly into the classroom. In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we’re joined by State Senator Kathleen Kauth, who shares the story behind Nebraska’s new Pathway to Educator (P2E) program. Senator Kauth unpacks how this initiative came to life, why the timing and collaboration were right for this effort, and how school districts and ESUs across the state may choose to implement flexible, locally designed pathways into teaching. From workforce development to mentorship models—and from policy nuance to practical classroom realities—this conversation offers valuable insight for school leaders, educators, and anyone interested in innovative solutions that strengthen Nebraska’s education system without relying on new legislation. For more information, please reach out to Dr. Larianne Polk with the ESU Coordinating Council via ESUCC.org.

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, Andrew Easton is joined by Kris Hagel, Chief Information Officer of Peninsula School District. Peninsula has been thoughtfully implementing artificial intelligence in K–12 education since early 2023. Now in their fourth year of AI work, Peninsula offers an honest look at what it takes to move beyond one-off trainings and instead build a sustainable, values-driven approach to AI adoption. Chris shares how early collaboration between instructional leaders and technology teams shaped the district’s direction, why universal design for learning (UDL) remained non-negotiable, and how teachers—especially in English and social studies—have reimagined assessment by focusing on student process rather than just final products. The conversation also explores practical system-level considerations, including data privacy, vetted tools, local AI models, and the realities districts face when balancing innovation with responsibility. As the episode closes, Andrew and Chris wrestle with one of the most pressing and unresolved questions in education today: students’ growing use of AI for companionship, mental health support, and social connection. Whether your district is just beginning its AI journey or refining systems already in place, this episode offers grounded insight, cautionary wisdom, and a reminder that meaningful change takes time, trust, and intentional leadership. To learn more about the tremendous work being done with AI in Peninsula Schools, visit https://psd401.ai/ to access all the resources discussed in this episode.

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we are joined by Becky Keene, CEO of Phygital Labs and author of AI Optimism: A Guide to Redefining Artificial Intelligence in Education. Drawing from 25 years in public education and a decade of global consulting work, Becky shares why she chooses to lead with possibility over fear in the age of generative AI. Together, Andrew and Becky explore what AI optimism really means for K–12 systems, how educators can move beyond simple substitution toward meaningful redefinition and transformation, and why human-centered practices like creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking matter more than ever. Becky introduces her AI Optimism Framework, unpacks the role of praxis, privacy, and prompting, and offers practical examples of how AI can elevate—not replace—great teaching. This conversation challenges leaders and educators to rethink not just how they use AI, but why they use it, and how small, intentional shifts can shape powerful learning experiences for students. Connect with Becky KeeneWebsite: https://beckykeene.com/ Social Media: @beckykeeneedu Daily AI reflections and practical examples via TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook

How can AI truly transform teaching without adding another fragmented tool to an educator's already overflowing plate? In this thought-provoking episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we welcome Arman Jaffer, CEO and Founder of Brisk Teaching, to share his journey with working to solve the problem of ever-increasing teacher workload and EdTech fragmentation. Arman explains how Brisk is fundamentally different from other AI tools. Instead of a separate dashboard, it functions as a Chrome extension/Edge add-on, delivering AI capabilities directly where the teacher is working, whether it's drafting feedback in Google comments or instantly changing a text's reading level. Key Takeaways You'll Explore: The Three Phases of AI in Education: The shift from initial fears over academic integrity to a focus on educator productivity, and finally to the emerging era of student-facing AI. The Power of AI for Formative Data: Why student-facing AI tutors provide richer, more targeted instructional data than traditional exit tickets, helping teachers identify and address student misconceptions. Defining "Teacher In The Loop": Arman clarifies this buzzword, emphasizing the importance of the teacher initiating and setting up AI activities intentionally to ensure equitable use and hold students accountable for the learning objective. The Spectrum of AI Exposure: A discussion on what intentional AI integration looks like across grade levels, from K-5 (focusing on voice and prescriptive tasks) to high school (preparing students for ubiquitous AI use in college and career). Action-Oriented Design: How Brisk simplifies the teacher's process into just five core buttons, ensuring the technology supports high-quality instructional actions without becoming overwhelming. Whether you're a classroom teacher looking for genuine time savings, an administrator seeking a strategic approach to AI, or a leader focused on driving student outcomes, this conversation offers an essential roadmap for leveraging the next generation of EdTech. Learn more about Brisk Teaching at https://www.briskteaching.com/

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, welcomes Adam Spark, Nebraska native and co-founder of Short Answer, to discuss his journey from teaching at Louisville and Milford Public Schools to studying learning design and technology at Stanford University, where his idea for Short Answer was born. Adam shares how formative assessment research—particularly from Dr. Dylan Wiliam’s Embedded Formative Assessment—inspired the creation of Short Answer, a digital platform designed to make peer feedback, writing practice, and student engagement more meaningful and fun. The two explore: The Nebraska roots that shaped Adam’s journey—from the ESU 6 EdTech Leadership Cadre led by Dr. Lynn Herr to presenting at NETA. How Short Answer uses peer feedback, gamification, and comparative judgment to build literacy and critical thinking across all subjects. The role of AI in education, including both its risks and opportunities for literacy, writing, and teacher workload. Adam’s concept of being a “radical centrist” on AI—recognizing both the benefits of AI efficiency and the challenges it poses to authentic literacy development. New features in Short Answer like “Pen Pals,” which use AI characters to help students debate and reflect on their writing. Practical AI policy, communication, and enforcement strategies for educators—featuring resources like: AI Trust You (from Laguna Beach USD) Brisk Teaching for revision-tracking in Google Docs SchoolAI for safe, monitored AI interactions The Red-Yellow-Green AI Policy Framework by Australian educator Adrian Cotterall The Washington OSPI AI Guidance Matrix, inspired by the work of Leon Furze and Mike Perkins Adam also shares his balanced take on how educators can help students develop AI literacy, writing fluency, and critical analysis skills—ensuring that technology amplifies learning rather than replacing it. ???? Resources MentionedShort Answer Embedded Formative Assessment – Dr. Dylan Wiliam AI Trust You Brisk Teaching SchoolAI NETA Conference Washington OSPI AI Guidance Leon Furze and Mike Perkins Adrian Cotterall’s AI Traffic Light Framework

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we sit down with Jane Davis, Superintendent of Hershey Public Schools, and Anna Weber, Owner of A-Plum Creative, to explore how Hershey Public Schools turned a community concern into a model initiative for digital citizenship education. After recognizing the growing challenges of student cell phone use, social media, and online behavior, Hershey launched a campaign that has brought students, parents, and staff together around a shared goal: helping kids become thoughtful, kind, and safe digital citizens. With creative support from A-Plum Creative and in partnership with the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association (NRCSA), Hershey has developed a visually branded, age-appropriate, and interactive social media initiative grounded in six core principles for digital citizenship. Jane and Anna share how the campaign evolved from early board discussions to data-driven outcomes, and how it’s expanding to include AI literacy and guidance for ethical and responsible use of emerging technologies. Listeners will learn how Hershey’s approach supports both local needs and broader statewide efforts to equip students for the digital age. ???? Contact Information: Jane Davis: Jane.Davis@hpspanthers.org Anna Weber: Anna@a-plum.com NRCSA: https://www.nrcsa.net/ Follow Hershey Public Schools on social media to see the campaign in action!

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, Adam Vinter, Nebraska's outreach manager with Common Sense Media, joins the show to share about the significant updates to their digital citizenship curriculum. The conversation explores the reimagining of digital literacy and well-being education, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the rapidly changing technological landscape. Adam discusses the six core topics of the curriculum, the integration of AI literacy, and the engaging lesson formats designed to foster critical thinking and essential skills in students. The episode also highlights the developmental progression of digital literacy education from kindergarten through eighth grade and provides resources for educators to effectively implement these lessons in their classrooms. To learn more, visit Common Sense Media's education page at https://www.commonsense.org/education

In this thought-provoking episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, Dr. Tricia Bertram Gallant, author, academic integrity expert, and Director of the Academic Integrity Office at UC San Diego, joins us to reframe how schools approach academic integrity in the age of AI. Rather than relying on surveillance or reactive discipline, Tricia invites educators to view integrity as a practice that can be cultivated through intentional school culture, character education, and authentic assessments. Drawing from her experience in higher education and adapting those insights for K–12 contexts, Dr. Bertram Gallant explores how AI technologies like ChatGPT are reshaping conversations around cheating, learning, and trust. She discusses how schools can shift from punitive mindsets to proactive ones, drawing parallels to PBIS frameworks and the importance of building ethical communities. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or policymaker, this episode offers practical ideas and a powerful call to action: Let’s teach students how to live with integrity, not just how to avoid getting caught.

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, Jamie Cook, Literacy Officer at the Nebraska Department of Education, joins the pod to explore the future of literacy in Nebraska and the exciting opportunities ahead with the Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) grant. Jamie shares her journey as a teacher, coach, and principal, and how those experiences ground her leadership in this new role. Together, we unpack why third grade is such a pivotal moment for reading, the role of the science of reading in shaping high-quality instruction, and how Nebraska’s literacy journey builds on years of strong statewide work. Listeners will learn: Why the CLSD grant is a powerful accelerant for Nebraska’s literacy efforts. How high-quality instructional materials and curriculum-based professional learning empower teachers. The importance of coaching, family engagement, and alignment across districts and ESUs. Nebraska’s measurable goals for literacy and the collective responsibility it will take to achieve them. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, coach, administrator, or policymaker, this conversation highlights the thoughtful, research-based approach Nebraska is taking to ensure every child becomes a confident and capable reader. To learn more about this literacy effort in Nebraska, visit https://www.education.ne.gov/clsd-2/

In this reflective and wide-ranging conversation, longtime collaborator and Good Life EDU Podcast guest Otis Pierce of ESU 7 joins the pod to unpack some key takeaways from a summer of professional learning. From AI integration and academic integrity to distance learning innovations, digital citizenship initiatives, and math instruction practices, Otis and Andrew explore what’s new, what’s next, and what's front-of-mind as Nebraska educators head into a new school year. This episode highlights the spirit of statewide collaboration across Nebraska’s ESUs and the Department of Education, while also celebrating the continuous growth mindset educators embody year-round. Whether you're starting the year with fresh energy or looking for meaningful insights to elevate your practice, this episode offers inspiration and resources to support your journey.

This week on The Good Life EDU Podcast, we close out the summer by welcoming internationally renowned education expert Dr. Dylan Wiliam to the show for a timely conversation at the intersection of formative assessment, teacher growth, and artificial intelligence in education. As AI tools become more accessible in schools, this discussion explores how educators can respond thoughtfully, leveraging technology to enhance instruction while staying grounded in proven practices that support deep learning. Dr. Wiliam shares insights from decades of research, addresses the limitations of AI in feedback and assessment, and offers practical ideas for how teachers and school leaders can begin to navigate this emerging era. Whether you’re curious about AI’s role in instructional coaching, redesigning assessment, or creating space for meaningful professional growth, this episode provides a powerful and thought-provoking perspective from one of education’s leading voices. Where to find the book Making Room for Impact: https://www.corwin.com/books/room-for-impact-284976?srsltid=AfmBOoqkoq2ZtYt0kKWhbVCcmHaS7C7-j5lyzoCjcQ0tHqfusVUhVKXB Connect with Dr. Dylan Wiliam at https://www.dylanwiliam.org/Dylan_Wiliams_website/Welcome.html

What happens when a school leader brings a coach’s mindset, a heart for people, and a relentless commitment to culture into their role as principal? In this episode, West Dodge Station Principal Benji Hoegh joins The Good Life EDU to reflect on the systems, habits, and heart behind building a thriving school culture. From his “TRAIN” acronym that powers the school’s values to his commitment to daily visibility and over 200 personal phone calls home, Benji shares practical strategies that promote connection, consistency, and care. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a veteran administrator, this episode offers energizing insights for creating a school where students, staff, and families all feel seen, supported, and inspired.

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, Phillip Alcock (CEO and Co-Founder) and Thom Markham (Creative Director) of PBL Future Labs join the show to share how they’re fusing the best of project-based learning (PBL) with the transformative possibilities of AI. With decades of experience in PBL design, coaching, and implementation, Phil and Tom reflect on PBL’s origins, the challenges that have limited its widespread adoption, and how AI can break down those barriers—saving teachers time, elevating student voice, and unlocking more authentic, community-connected learning. They share real examples of “learning missions” that help schools move beyond static standards and worksheets, using AI to co-create meaningful projects and connect students’ learning to real-world impact in the students' local community. This conversation is an inspiring look at how educators can tap AI as a partner to reignite student engagement and prepare learners to solve the complex problems of tomorrow. Learn more about PBL Future Labs, visit pblfuturelabs.com.

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we sit down with Elizabeth Dampf, a school administrator in the Chicagoland are and author of the new book from ASCD, Am I Cut Out for This? An Educational Leader’s Guide to Navigating Self-Doubt. Together, they explore the often unspoken realities of school leadership from early career challenges and feeling like an “instructional imposter” to facing difficult meetings and the isolation many leaders experience. Elizabeth shares candid insights from her own journey as an administrator, explains why self-doubt is so prevalent (yet taboo) in the field, and offers practical strategies that leaders can use in real moments of uncertainty. Whether you’re a veteran principal or a new admin, this conversation — and Elizabeth’s book — will remind you that you’re not alone and that leadership skills can be learned and strengthened over time.

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, host Andrew Easton reconnects with longtime friend (and podcast guest) Rachelle Dene Poth for a timely and insightful discussion about the legal implications of AI in education. Drawing from her experience as an educator, speaker, and attorney, Rachelle unpacks some of the critical and often overlooked considerations educators should keep in mind when integrating AI tools into schools and classrooms. Listeners will learn: Why AI literacy goes far beyond knowing how to use tools How AI is being misused in cases of cyberbullying—and what educators should know What legal considerations (like FERPA and COPPA) apply to AI tools in schools The dangers of uploading PII to generative AI models How to foster a district culture of responsible AI use for both staff and students Whether you're just starting to explore AI or you're leading its implementation in your district, this conversation offers valuable guidance on what to prioritize and how to stay compliant and ethical in the process. Connect with Rachelle and explore her work: Website/Blog: www.rdene915.com Socials: @Rdene915 (Instagram, X, Threads, LinkedIn) Recent Books Released: How to Teach AI and What the Tech

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, John White, the CEO of Great Minds and former Louisiana State Superintendent of Education, joins the show for a timely conversation on why curriculum matters more than ever in today’s evolving educational landscape. Drawing from his national leadership experience and current work supporting schools across the country, John reflects on the critical role that high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) play in advancing student learning, supporting educators, and ensuring equity. Together, we explore how well-designed curriculum can reduce teacher workload, foster student curiosity, and drive meaningful, long-term achievement. From national policy to the classroom level, this episode offers a compelling look at how curriculum, when done well, can serve as a catalyst for sustained student growth and achievement. Whether you’re a classroom educator, instructional leader, or policymaker, this conversation offers valuable insights into how curriculum can serve as a powerful lever for meaningful and lasting change To learn more about Great Minds, visit: https://greatminds.org

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we’re joined by Suzie Fogarty and Theresa Hamer of Smart Gen Society (SGS), a Nebraska-based nonprofit working at the intersection of digital wellness, education, and youth empowerment. Together, Suzie and Theresa share the story behind SGS’s founding and its evolving mission to equip young people, families, and schools with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate today’s digital world safely and responsibly. From uncovering online exploitation risks to advocating for stronger school-community partnerships, this conversation explores the unique approach SGS takes in engaging students, leading educators, and supporting parents. We also highlight how Smart Gen Society is making an impact beyond Nebraska and offers practical insights for anyone concerned about the well-being of digital-native youth. To with connect and learn more about Smart Gen Society, visit https://www.smartgensociety.org/

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, we welcome Lauren Heil, a passionate learning experience designer and the creator of the Stickity Add-On. Lauren shares her journey and insights on how thoughtful design enhances learning experiences and addresses crucial accessibility needs in digital environments. Discover practical tips for optimizing digital materials, as Lauren also introduces Stickity, a free Google Workspace add-on. Stickity offers a library of graphics that boosts communication, supports student independence, and fosters a positive class culture. To explore Stickity, search for it under extensions and add-ons within Google Docs, Forms, Sheets, or Slides. Don't miss Lauren Heil live at the Future Ready Nebraska Conference on June 2nd and 3rd! There's still time to register -- and it's FREE --- at nefutureready.com.

In this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast, national edtech speaker, Brian Buffington, returns to the show to preview his upcoming session at the 2025 Future Ready Nebraska Conference. Known for his energetic style and practical insights, Brian shares timely encouragement for educators navigating change, embracing AI, and leaning into creativity with confidence. This conversation touches on the mindset shifts needed to innovate in schools, the importance of adaptability in the face of emerging technologies, and how teachers can remain rooted in their purpose while exploring new tools and approaches. Whether you're looking for inspiration, strategy, or just a refreshing take on the future of learning, this episode delivers. To learn more about Brian and to subscribe to his newsletter, visit: https://briankbuffington.com/ To register (It's FREE) for the Future Ready Nebraska Conference (June 2–3, 2025), visit: https://www.futurereadyne.org