Shows
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUAI Visionaries: Richmond High School's Tech Team Students on AI Shaping EdTech and Responsible Tech UseWhat happens when schools stop banning AI and hand the keys to students? Join us for an exceptional episode featuring Jeremy Hill, an e-learning specialist at Richmond High School, and his remarkable tech team: high school students Sophie, JJ, Annabella, and Matt. This dynamic group leverages technology to support their school community and lead the integration of AI, showcasing students not just learning about, but actively implementing, responsible AI usage across the district.This episode explores how they share their unique perspectives on AI as a critical thinking tool, the differences between general and purpose-built AI, and...
2026-05-2136 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUDisrupting Disability Norms: Cait Russell on Empowering Autism-Focused Tech Startups & Inclusive Work OpportunitiesIn this episode, Cait Russell, COO of Multiple, shares her journey from occupational therapy to leading a nonprofit accelerator for autism-focused technology. She explores how innovation can scale impact beyond individual support, helping better serve neurodivergent individuals across education and employment.The conversation highlights the need for more meaningful career pathways, inclusive hiring practices, and stronger connections between schools, employers, and emerging tech. Cait also offers insight into how startups are building tools that address real gaps—and why doing good and building sustainable businesses must go hand in hand.
2026-05-1434 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUEfficiency Meets Impact: Benjamin Franquiz and Kathleen Petrenko on Smarter Systems & Partnerships in Special EducationBenjamin Franquiz, Assistant Superintendent for Special Education and Student Support Services, and Kathleen Petrenko, Director of Special Education, at Eastport-South Manor Central School District, are leading with a clear focus: every student matters. Through systems thinking and collaborative leadership, they align instruction, intervention, and student well-being to build a strong, inclusive special education program.In this episode, they share how their district leverages AI, streamlines data practices, and strengthens family partnerships to better support both students and staff. Their approach shows how thoughtful innovation and clear priorities can drive meaningful impact. Hear their insights into improving efficiency...
2026-05-0734 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUBeyond the Mandate: Annie Payne on Building a Culture of Care in Special EdAnnie Payne, Director of Special Education at Enterprise Elementary School District, brings a deeply personal and purpose-driven approach to inclusive education, rooted in her passion for serving students with diverse needs. With a strong commitment to equity and growth, she leads district-wide efforts that empower both educators and learners to thrive.This episode delves into Enterprise Elementary's innovative approaches to fostering inclusion for students with intensive needs, alongside their neurotypical peers. Annie discusses the critical role of staff belief, effective practical strategies, and how the district actively recruits and retains exceptional educators even in a rural setting.
2026-04-3032 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUFrom Vendors to Partners: Evan Abramson on Rewriting the EdTech Partnership Playbook and Reimagining Inclusion InnovationEvan Abramson, Director of Innovation and Technology at the Morris Union Jointure Commission, is a dynamic leader dedicated to redefining what’s possible for students with special needs. A champion of innovation and inclusion, Evan believes in leveraging technology to empower all learners while fostering meaningful relationships that drive real impact. Known for his energetic leadership and “fail forward” mindset, he challenges educators and partners alike to rethink traditional systems and prioritize student-centered solutions.Listen to our episode with Evan to hear his insights on building authentic edtech partnerships, using innovation to unlock student potential, navigating AI and di...
2026-04-2336 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUMTSS-tering the System: Rebecca Burton on Creating Agile Support Structures That Serve All LearnersRebecca Burton, Deputy Superintendent for Special Education and Student Services at Lemon Grove School District, joins us to discuss her deeply personal 'why' for education and how it fuels her passion for creating inclusive and equitable learning systems. This episode explores the critical role of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) in supporting diverse student populations, from academic interventions to social-emotional well-being.Rebecca shares insights into Lemon Grove's journey in implementing a robust MTSS framework, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making and a strong Tier 1 foundation. She candidly addresses common misconceptions about special education, advocating for systemic changes...
2026-04-1332 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUPioneering Pathways: Jeff Hadley on Innovative Inclusion Programs & Career Readiness for Students of All AbilitiesDr. Jeff Hadley is the Superintendent of Avonworth School District in PA, a district nationally recognized for its innovative and inclusive approach to education. Dr. Hadley shares how Avonworth champions every student's growth through unique programs like unified sports, the JAMbethekindkid movement, and a student-run coffee shop.This episode explores Avonworth's groundbreaking World of Work program, which uses the RIASEC code to help students discover their talents and connect them to future careers, emphasizing the value in every child. Discover how Dr. Hadley's district leverages grants to reimagine high school, ensuring every student, including those with IEPs...
2026-04-0332 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUSmall School, Big Impact: Chandler Cross's Commandments of Culture and Secrets to Student & Staff SuccessChandler Cross is the Assistant Superintendent of Shenandoah School Corporation, a high-performing rural district in Indiana with graduation rates consistently near 99%. His approach is simple but powerful: build strong relationships, create intentional systems, and never lose sight of the student experience.In this episode, Chandler shares actionable strategies behind Shenandoah’s success, including collaborative team structures, a fully integrated virtual school serving students across the state, and student-run businesses that provide real-world learning opportunities. His approach shows how strong culture, paired with intentional systems, can drive measurable results.
2026-03-2636 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUGoing Viral: Dr. Georgeanne Warnock on Leadership in the Age of Social MediaDr. Georgeanne Warnock, Superintendent of Terrell Independent School District, is a forward-thinking leader committed to strengthening public education through connection, courage, and innovation. Grounded in the belief that public schools are the foundation of thriving communities, she leads with both strategy and heart.In this episode, we explore transformational change in action – from implementing a four-day instructional week that boosted recruitment and academic growth, to expanding bilingual programming and launching new school choice academies. Known as the “TikTok superintendent,” Dr. Warnock also shares how her authentic social media presence has become a powerful leadership tool – building community trust, c...
2026-03-1936 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUGoing Viral: Dr. Georgeanne Warnock on Leadership in the Age of Social MediaDr. Georgeanne Warnock, Superintendent of Terrell Independent School District, is a forward-thinking leader committed to strengthening public education through connection, courage, and innovation. Grounded in the belief that public schools are the foundation of thriving communities, she leads with both strategy and heart.In this episode, we explore transformational change in action – from implementing a four-day instructional week that boosted recruitment and academic growth, to expanding bilingual programming and launching new school choice academies. Known as the “TikTok superintendent,” Dr. Warnock also shares how her authentic social media presence has become a powerful leadership tool – building community trust, c...
2026-03-1936 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUArchitecting Impact: Lisa Hartman on Building Systems That Transcend LeadersLisa Hartman, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment at Lewis Central Community School District in Iowa, is a visionary leader driven by a deep commitment to human-centered educational change. Passionate about collaborative systems improvement, she works to advance structures that meaningfully support students, educators, and communities.In this episode, we explore systems change in action through Lewis Central’s districtwide literacy plan, and the development of in-house paraprofessional training using the STEAM framework. Lisa shares how she built intentional feedback loops across the district—creating structures that increase efficiency and keep the evolving needs of people at the...
2026-03-1238 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUGrowing Enrollment, Growing Excellence: How Kirk Koennecke Sustains a Top-Ranked DistrictKirk Koennecke is the Superintendent of Indian Hill Schools in Cincinnati, Ohio—one of the state’s highest-performing public school districts. With nearly 30 years in public education and recognition as the 2023 Superintendent of the Year by the National Association of School Superintendents, Kirk shares how Indian Hill has built an intentional leadership pipeline, elevated student voice, and created a truly student-centered culture. Listen to our podcast as Kirk dives into the realities of growing enrollment, funding structures in Ohio, and the increasing needs of students with disabilities and English language learners.
2026-03-0533 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUScreening for Success: Julie Schafer’s Unique Approaches to Dyslexia Screening and Student Well-Being SpacesJulie Schafer serves as the principal of Early Elementary school in Early ISD in Texas. She is leading success in every child’s education by implementing early dyslexia screenings for dyslexia intervention and training programs. She fosters open communication and collaboration among educators to drive the best possible learning outcomes. Listen to our podcast with Julie to learn more about ISD’s innovation, “Success room,” where students thrive in an emotionally supportive learning environment through the MTSS and PBIS framework. Her leadership exemplifies how a unified community of support can accelerate success for both children and staff.
2026-02-2638 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUFailing Forward: How Steve Iglesias Builds Future-Ready Schools that Prepare Students for the UnknownSteve Iglesias is the Chief Innovation Officer at Mater Brickell Academy in Miami, Florida. A former baseball coach turned educational innovator, Steve builds tech- and entrepreneurship-focused programs that expose every student to real-world tools and emerging fields. Grounded in his belief in “failing forward,” he designs learning experiences that prioritize resilience, problem-solving, and purpose over test scores and tradition. Listen to our podcast with Steve to discover how reframing failure, elevating student voice, and embracing AI thoughtfully can help your school keep pace with rapid change and truly prepare learners for the jobs—and technologies—that don’t exist yet
2026-02-1933 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUCreating Direction and Opportunity: Jeffrey D Hartmann’s Vision for Student-Centered EducationJeffrey D. Hartmann, superintendent of Galion City Schools in Ohio, draws on his international experience to highlight the importance of establishing common direction among teachers and administrators as the foundation for effective learning. He prioritizes student-centered decision-making to ensure every child’s education is meaningfully impacted.Listen to our podcast with Jeffrey to learn more about Galion City Schools’ tagline, “Courage to Climb,” and their commitment to helping students, particularly those facing generational disadvantages, explore new opportunities beyond the classroom. His work to refresh the district’s mission and values focuses on redefining what authentic learning truly means.
2026-02-1239 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUFrom the Field to the Classroom: Bryan Ballenger’s Lessons in Leadership and InclusionBryan Ballenger serves as the Superintendent of the Gustine Unified School District. Through his focus on innovative instructional practices, Bryan ensures that all students have access to equitable learning opportunities. By emphasizing teacher voice, emotional growth, and progress monitoring, he’s helping redefine how success is measured in schools. Listen to our podcast with Bryan to learn more about his journey in education, the district’s shift toward inclusive practices, and how his approach to leadership fosters growth and collaboration across all levels of the education system. Through his experience and dedication, Bryan is shaping a culture where...
2026-02-0526 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUInside the Virtual Classroom: How Ohio Connections Academy Helps Students with Disabilities ThriveSuperintendent Marie Hanna and Co-Directors of Special Education, Erin Fatafehi and Rekha Manakkal, serve on the administration board at Ohio Connections Academy. Together as a team, they cultivate a flexible virtual learning environment for all needs in a student’s education goals across all disabilities. They are challenging the standard brick and mortar school setting, demonstrating that effective learning can thrive beyond the classroom and empower every student to reach their fullest potential.Listen to our podcast with Marie, Erin, and Rekha to learn about how they create impact through their PBIS programming, staff collaboration, and establishing sc...
2026-01-2938 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUDyslexia, Data, and the Drive to Lead: Meagan Drapkin's Modern Approach to MTSS & LeadershipMeagan Drapkin serves as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Dunellen Public Schools. She leads her district with compassion by advocating for an effective prevention program through the implementation of MTSS structures. Through leveraging data collection, building interventionist support systems and integrating community-based resources, she ensures that every child receives the individual support they need to thrive academically.Listen to our podcast with Meagan to learn more about how she inspires change in the education system within local districts, and insights on her tertiary tiered MTSS framework that empowers confidence in every child’s learning. Through he...
2025-10-3135 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUFrom Struggle to Strength: Dr. Malasia Walker on Transforming Student Outcomes Within and Beyond Special EducationDr. Malasia Walker is the Director of Special Education for the William Floyd School District. Drawing on her own school experience and the mentorship that changed her path, she leads with relationships—pairing students with trusted adults, starting early-credit pathways, and meeting learners where they are.Listen to our episode with Dr. Walker to discover how meeting students where they are, credit-earning in middle school, and simple accountability rituals drive persistence. She reframes parent involvement, debunks special-ed myths, and shares how consistent care—and a little strategic bribery—can carry students across the finish line.
2025-10-2332 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUThe Power of Relationships: Tiffany Law on Building Trust Across Districts and Impact Within EdTechTiffany Law is the Chief Operating Officer of the Institute for Education Innovation. Inspired by her father, a principal who championed diversity and women’s leadership, she continues his mission of empowering emerging leaders, amplifying their successes, and fostering authentic relationships within and between EdTech organizations and the school systems they serve.Listen to our episode with Tiffany to hear more about how she drives progress in technology and education through strategic partnerships, mentorship, and a shared vision of success for educators and students. Her approach to leadership centers on recognizing potential in others and lifting them up—a p...
2025-10-1520 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUFrom Plan to Practice: Kelly Carpenter on Building a Personalized Learning District and Embedding MTSSKelly Carpenter is the Chief Academic Officer Emeritus of Gananda Central School District in Rochester County, NY. She has dedicated her career to personalized learning, implementing equity and inclusion in every child’s education. Inspired by her brother and father, who struggled in traditional school systems, she shifted classrooms from rote memorization toward problem-solving and critical thinking.Listen to our episode with Kelly to learn more about how she implements MTSS, instructional planning and innovative practices to ensure a supportive environment for academic growth. Her work is an example of how flexibility in student-centered education can instill pa...
2025-10-0838 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDURedefining Disability Narratives: Anthony Lue on Inclusion, Advocacy, and Empowering YouthAnthony Lue is a motivational speaker, accessibility consultant, and Paralympic hand-cycling athlete. Drawing from his journey—from standout high-school athlete to paraplegic survivor—he brings expertise in resilience, disability inclusion, and adaptive sport, dedicated to inspiring authentic growth and barrier-free communities.Listen to our episode with Anthony to hear how he turns adversity into advocacy, builds more accessible environments, and trains toward his Paralympic dreams. His story is a powerful example of how personal transformation can spark systemic change.
2025-10-0133 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUTeaching the Whole Human: Maggie Broderick on Embedding SEL to Create Exceptional Learning EnvironmentsMaggie Broderick is an associate professor at National University and the faculty lead for social-emotional learning. With expertise in online graduate education, curriculum design, and trauma-sensitive teaching, she is dedicated to fostering inclusive learning environments that support both academic growth and emotional well-being.Listen to our episode with Maggie to hear how she integrates SEL into higher education, champions educator well-being, and builds meaningful connections in virtual classrooms. Her work is a powerful example of how student-centered leadership can thrive in online learning spaces.
2025-09-2432 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUPersonalized Education with Purpose: Candice Sears on Curriculum, Inclusion, and 21st-Century LearningCandice Sears is a forward-thinking educational leader with a passion for personalized learning and inclusive curriculum. With expertise in homeschooling, gifted education, and instructional leadership, she is committed to equity and innovation that meets the needs of all learners.Listen to our episode with Candice to hear how she supports homeschooling families, designs inclusive curriculum for gifted and diverse students, and adapts instruction for 21st-century learning. Her work is a powerful example of student-centered leadership in action.
2025-09-1733 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDULeading Urban Schools with Purpose: Wanda Lopez-Ramirez on Culture, Community, and Equity in EducationWanda Lopez Ramirez is a Bronx-born educator and principal who leads with heart, equity, and deep community ties. With decades of experience, she champions culturally responsive teaching, inclusive leadership, and creating meaningful opportunities for all students. At PS1, she fosters a school culture where every child feels known, seen, and empowered.Listen to our episode with Wanda to hear how she builds strong community partnerships, integrates technology to support equity, and empowers students—from leading fifth-grade career day to supporting a student-run origami club. Her story is a powerful reminder that leadership begins with listening, connection, and ca...
2025-09-1030 min
LinkedUp: Breaking Boundaries in EducationThe Power of One Defining MomentWhat does it look like when a seventh grader turns a life-altering moment into a mission? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Matt Giovanniello, CEO of Frenalytics, who used a family tragedy to spark a lifelong drive to serve others. Matt shares how witnessing his grandmother's recovery from a devastating stroke lit a fire that would eventually lead to Frenalytics.Tune in as Matt opens up about the moment everything changed: his grandmother's massive stroke during open-heart surgery. At just 12 years old, he watched her fight to regain her memory and independence. Fast forward to...
2025-05-3035 min
Exceptional Educators Podcast by FrenalyticsEDUBuilding & Storytelling for the Future: Hayley Spira-Bauer on Equity, EdTech, and Fullmind’s Learning Can’t Wait PodcastAs COO/CAO of Fullmind, Hayley Spira-Bauer is a visionary leader and lifelong advocate for education. Passionate about driving transformative change, she has dedicated her career to building–whether it’s fostering the potential of students and teachers, founding innovative schools, or leading businesses to scale with impact. A working mom, disability advocate, and lupus warrior, she brings a unique perspective to her work, championing equity and resilience in all she does. As host of the Learning Can’t Wait podcast, Spira-Bauer curates meaningful conversations about the intersection of education, equity, and innovation. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-spira-bauer/)L...
2025-05-1431 min