Learning Can’t Wait

Dr. Kiesha King | Digital Equity, Student Agency. EdTech Innovation

This podcast episode features Dr. Kiesha King discussing her innovative approach to education, from her early adoption of technology in the classroom to her current leadership at T-Mobile, where she champions digital equity through initiatives like Project 10 Million. The conversation covers the importance of creativity, student agency, and inclusivity in schools, the urgent need for cross-sector collaboration to close the digital divide, and the responsibility of edtech companies to prioritize ethics and equity. Dr. King encourages new teachers to overcome fear, embrace community, and collaborate widely to provide meaningful, future-ready learning experiences for all students.

Season 8 Wrap Episode

Season 8 ends with a bang. Check out this highlight episode covering the incredible guests and conversations that made this season our best one yet.

AI, Leadership, & Tech | Dr. Kusum Sinha, Matt Gaven, Dr. Jared Bloom

In this special episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, three visionary Long Island superintendents—Dr. Kusum Sinha, Matt Gaven, and Dr. Jared Bloom—reveal how they’re leading the charge to integrate artificial intelligence in their schools. Through candid conversation, they share practical strategies, ethical considerations, and the power of collaboration in preparing students, educators, and communities for an AI-driven future.

Sheridan Hotung | Dyslexia, Intervention Equity

In this powerful episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, certified academic language therapist Sheridan Hotung shares her deeply personal journey from luxury branding to literacy advocacy, revealing how her struggle to help her own children learn to read led her to develop accessible, research-based tools that are transforming lives in classrooms and even correctional facilities. Sheridan’s story is a testament to the impact of early intervention, the need for universal screening, and the belief that literacy is a basic human right—not a privilege.

Jennifer Schwab | Workforce Development, Mentoring, Upskill

In this episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, Jennifer Schwab, CEO and founder of ENTITY Academy, shares her inspiring journey as a female entrepreneur determined to close the gender gap in business and tech. From her early career struggles without female mentors to building a social impact company that empowers women through mentorship, upskilling, and access to high-growth careers, Jennifer reveals how ENTITY is reshaping the future of workforce development and education in the age of AI.

Adrienne Emerson | Technology, STEM, Robotics

In this episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, Adrienne Emerson, a passionate STEM educator and implementation specialist at Sphero, shares her journey from a curious high school student to a leader in robotics education. Adrienne discusses how hands-on learning, accessible technology, and relationship-building can transform student engagement—especially for those who might not see themselves in STEM. Her insights on making STEM approachable for all, the importance of diverse experiences, and her global perspective on education make this a must-listen for educators and innovators alike.

Eddie Blass | Personalization, Systemic Change, & Agency

In this episode, Dr. Eddie Blass, founder and CEO of Inventorium, shares her personal and professional journey from a disengaged student in London to an educational innovator in Australia. She reflects on her experiences with privilege and the shortcomings of traditional education systems, particularly their inability to serve students who don’t fit the mainstream mold. Through Inventorium, Blass has designed a personalized, one-on-one learning model that addresses three key systemic issues: the rigid pace of classroom learning, lack of relevance in curriculum, and insufficient teacher-student connection. Her approach empowers students—many of whom are neurodiverse or have disengaged from school—to learn at their own pace, pursue their interests, and regain confidence, ultimately preparing them for meaningful futures beyond the constraints of conventional schooling. Blass advocates for systemic flexibility, greater teacher autonomy, and a shift toward education models that prioritize individual growth and social skills over standardized conformity.

Kathryn Starke | Literacy, Engagement, & Teacher Autonomy

In this episode of the Learning Can't Wait podcast, national literacy consultant Kathryn Starke shares her journey from a childhood surrounded by teachers to becoming a passionate advocate for literacy education. Starke discusses the importance of matching children with books that interest them, the ongoing debates around literacy instruction and the science of reading, and the critical role of qualified teachers who build relationships and adapt instruction based on student needs and data. She highlights her work founding Tackle Reading, a national initiative that partners with NFL athletes to promote a love of reading, and emphasizes that collaboration, creativity, and teacher autonomy are essential for the future of education. Starke encourages new teachers to trust their instincts, share innovative ideas, and focus on making a meaningful difference in students’ lives.