In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks sits down with Alfredo Matthew III, an innovator dedicated to building an inclusive and regenerative economy. With over 25 years intersecting education, workforce development, and entrepreneurship, Alfredo has transitioned from being a public school teacher to leading significant initiatives such as co-founding ESO Ventures and establishing SPCC One.

He advocates for project-based learning as a vital educational approach and addresses the pressing need for educators and institutions to adopt entrepreneurial mindsets. Alfredo offers his insights on the importance of collaboration, the evolution of the school choice movement, and the impactful role of interconnected learning in current and future educational landscapes.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Education Influencers

00:32 Meet Alfredo Matthew III

02:47 Alfredo's Professional Journey

04:45 The Importance of Project-Based Learning

08:58 Views on the School Choice Movement

14:52 Market-Based Approaches to Education

20:31 Current Projects and Future Vision

30:56 Recommendations for Educators and Leaders

38:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Education Influencers, Dr. Carla Sparks speaks with Dr. Libby Simpson, the education director at a major national organization and a prominent figure in STEM education. Dr. Simpson discusses the impact of her doctoral degree on her career, her approach to promoting equity in STEM, and her work at Siemens Digital Industries.

She elaborates on her contributions to educational leadership at National Louis University and her advocacy for ethical AI use in education. Dr. Simpson shares valuable advice for future change makers, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning, collaboration, and staying true to one’s purpose.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:43 Dr. Libby Simpson's Journey in Education

03:35 Understanding STEM and Its Importance

06:02 Dr. Simpson's Current Role and Impact

07:57 Innovations in STEM Education

19:05 Teaching and Mentoring Future Educators

23:07 Ethics and AI in Education

28:51 Advice for Aspiring Change Makers

32:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome back to the podcast! Today Dr. Carla sits down with Dr. Danielle Brewer, the superintendent of a large school district, to discuss her rapid rise in the education sector since earning her doctorate in 2022.

Dr. Brewer shares her inspiring story from starting as a high school principal to becoming an interim superintendent, emphasizing the importance of community involvement, the influence of her early life experiences, and her ongoing efforts to improve academic outcomes and support new teachers. Their conversation illustrates how commitment and passion can lead to impactful leadership in education.

Connect with Dr. Brewer

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:15 Dr. Brewer's Career Journey

05:10 Personal Background and Early Life

09:06 Impact on Education and Community

14:24 Challenges and Achievements as Superintendent

21:59 Advice for Aspiring Change Makers

25:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts