What if every learner walked into school already believing they belong, can take on tough challenges, and that their ideas matter? That’s the spark we chase as Juan sits down with Dr. Jennifer Barry, CEO of Smart Lab, to unpack a practical, human-centered approach to STEM and STEAM that turns technology from a shiny object into a catalyst for real learning.

We dive into a clear definition of STEM identity—belonging, mastery, and impact—and why it must anchor every choice about tools, projects, and assessments. Jennifer shares how to build career-connected, project-based experiences that link classroom skills to industries like media, logistics, health, and advanced manufacturing, so students understand not just how to do something but where and why it matters. You’ll hear simple, replicable examples, like using a 3D pen to bring an archaeology unit to life, and a powerful reminder to choose one tool, one outcome, and a real problem to solve.

The conversation moves into AI literacy and agency: teaching students to direct AI, not be directed by it. We explore facilitator training that prioritizes productive struggle over perfection, the design of flexible learning environments, and the role of community partnerships—including a free, open STEM Identity Day—to widen exposure across zip codes. Equity runs through every topic as a commitment to time, access, and mentorship that levels opportunity for historically marginalized students.

If you’re a school leader, teacher, or parent looking for a blueprint that’s bold and doable, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review to help more educators discover these strategies—and tell us one tool you’ll pilot next week.

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EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

Let’s bridge the digital divide, together!

Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!

In this episode of EdTech Empowerment, host Juan Rodriguez speaks with Matt Dalio, founder and CEO of Endless, about the transformative power of technology in education. They discuss the importance of empowering students to become creators rather than consumers, the role of games in learning, and the challenges of integrating technology in classrooms. Matt shares insights on affordability, public-private partnerships, and the essential skills needed for the future workforce, particularly for underserved communities. The conversation emphasizes the need for innovative approaches to education that engage students and prepare them for a rapidly changing world.

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Support the show

EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

Let’s bridge the digital divide, together!

Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!

Personalized learning has been a buzzword for years, but rarely a reality. In this episode, Amir Nathoo, founder & CEO of OutSchool, reveals how technology and human connection are finally making it possible. From breaking out of the industrial-era classroom model to embracing AI as a tool—not a threat—Amir shares bold insights on what real personalized learning looks like and why teachers deserve to be treated like true creative professionals.

Whether you’re a teacher craving more freedom, a parent curious about fresh learning options, or an innovator reimagining education, this conversation will challenge what you thought you knew about school and leave you inspired for what’s next.

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Get $40 off your first OutSchool membership with code NEXTGEN40 at checkout. Offer valid for first-time memberships only. Limited to the first 1000 users. Cannot be combined with other offers. Subject to OutSchool’s Terms of Service.

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Support the show

EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

Let’s bridge the digital divide, together!

Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!

In this episode of EdTech Empowerment, host Juan Rodriguez speaks with Chris Hull, a former social studies teacher and co-founder of Otus, an all-in-one platform for education technology. They discuss the journey from teaching to edtech innovation, the challenges of integrating technology in classrooms, and the importance of data-driven decision-making. Chris shares insights on how to effectively use data to improve student outcomes, engage parents, and ensure data security. The conversation also explores the future of edtech, emphasizing personalization and the role of AI in education.

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Support the show

EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

Let’s bridge the digital divide, together!

Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!

In this episode of EdTech Empowerment, host Juan Rodriguez speaks with Lindy Hockenbary, an experienced K-12 EdTech advisor, about the integration of technology and AI in education. They discuss Lindy's journey in EdTech, the key elements for successful technology integration, common mistakes educators make, and the importance of digital citizenship. The conversation also explores the role of cell phones in the classroom and the impact of AI on the future of education, emphasizing the need for educators to adapt and embrace these tools for enhanced learning experiences. In this conversation, Lindy Hockenbary discusses the transformative impact of AI on education, emphasizing the need for AI literacy among educators and students. She highlights the misconceptions surrounding AI, particularly the fear of cheating, and advocates for a deeper understanding of AI's capabilities. Lindy also addresses the ethical considerations of using AI in schools, the importance of equity and access in educational technology, and the critical role of professional development for teachers to adapt to these changes effectively. In this conversation, Lindy Hockenbary discusses the integration of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between students and AI. She advocates for a shift from Acceptable Use Policies (AUP) to Responsible Use Policies (RUP) to foster a positive learning environment. Lindy also explores the future of AI in education, highlighting the emergence of agent AI and the need for educators to adapt their teaching strategies. She provides valuable insights on emerging trends in EdTech and offers practical advice for educators looking to enhance their tech integration strategies.

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Support the show

EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

Let’s bridge the digital divide, together!

Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!

In this episode of EdTech Empowerment, Juan Rodriguez sits down with Anna Haney-Winthrow, Director of the Institute of Innovative & Emerging Technologies at Florida Southwestern State College. They explore how AI is transforming higher education, from faculty upskilling to algorithm literacy for students. Anna shares insights on how educators can embrace AI rather than fear it, create more engaging learning experiences, and ensure technology is used equitably in the classroom. Whether you're an educator looking to integrate AI or just curious about its impact on education, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

🔹 AI in higher education
🔹 Faculty upskilling & tech integration
🔹 Algorithm literacy for students
🔹 Ethical AI & student privacy

Tune in now and join the conversation on the future of learning!

Send us a text

Support the show

EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

Let’s bridge the digital divide, together!

Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!

Heather Olson, Director of Online Teaching and Learning Experience at Florida SouthWestern State College, discusses her journey into education and her philosophy of fostering inclusivity and confidence in online spaces. She highlights the use of tools like Canvas, Notion, Google Learn, Flexi AI, Harmonize, Packback, and Hypothesis to enhance learning outcomes. Olson emphasizes the importance of self-directed learning, flexible policies, and leveraging AI to personalize education. She shares her strategies for reducing grading fatigue and increasing student engagement, such as using ungrading and providing multiple ways for students to demonstrate their learning. Olson also stresses the importance of accessibility, help-seeking behaviors, and embracing technology to humanize online learning.

Send us a text

Support the show

EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

Let’s bridge the digital divide, together!

Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!

Unlock the future of education with Professor Lance Cummings from the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, as he shares groundbreaking strategies transforming the classroom. From applied learning and ungrading to leveraging AI and cutting-edge tools like LeftOS, Lance reimagines education to prepare students for an AI-driven world. Discover how experiential learning, design thinking, and modern digital platforms empower students to collaborate, innovate, and thrive. Explore how AI enhances creativity, problem-solving, and engagement, making learning more dynamic and career-focused. Tune in to this episode for a compelling look at reshaping education to inspire the next generation of creators and critical thinkers.

Send us a text

Support the show

EdTech Empowerment: Innovating Education Together is hosted by Juan Rodriguez, founder of NextGen Classrooms. Our mission? To empower every student with access to technology-rich education. Tune in each episode to hear from thought leaders, educators, and tech experts on transformative strategies in education, from digital literacy and AI ethics to building inclusive classrooms.

Let’s bridge the digital divide, together!

Visit our website at NextGen Classrooms to learn more about our mission and programs.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join our growing community of educators shaping the future of learning!