Shows
The Next Class 2.0Season 6 - Episode 6- Steve Cheeseman
Join Rob Birdsell and Erin Barisano in an inspiring dialogue with Dr. Steve Cheeseman, President of NCEA. Dr. Cheeseman shares encouraging insights on the future of Catholic education, noting renewed hope and mission‑driven energy across schools nationwide. School communities are strengthening Catholic identity, embracing growth, and responding creatively to teacher and leader shortages. He highlights NCEA’s shift toward becoming a strategic partner through actionable data, leadership development, and operational vitality initiatives, including a new national data dashboard. Nationally, enrollment remains stable with growth in several regions, especially early grades. Cheeseman also emphasizes the importance of responsible technology and A...
2026-02-0542 minThe Next Class 2.0Season 6 - Episode 5 - School Board best practicesJoin this thought-provoking podcast as Erin Barisano talks with Catholic Education Services President Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey on the transformative power of Catholic school boards. They explore why today’s governance challenges demand spiritual grounding, intentional culture‑building, and true discernment—not business‑as‑usual decision‑making.
Learn what makes an effective board “apostolic,” how communication protocols strengthen the president–board relationship, and why cultivating a “thick,” mission‑driven culture leads to healthier schools and holier leadership. Packed with practical insights and inspiring stories, this conversation reframes board service as sacred work in service of the Church.
2026-02-0538 minThe Next Class 2.0Season 6 - Episode 5 - Board best practicesJoin this thought-provoking podcast as Erin Barisano talks with Catholic Education Services President Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey on the transformative power of Catholic school boards. They explore why today’s governance challenges demand spiritual grounding, intentional culture‑building, and true discernment—not business‑as‑usual decision‑making.
Learn what makes an effective board “apostolic,” how communication protocols strengthen the president–board relationship, and why cultivating a “thick,” mission‑driven culture leads to healthier schools and holier leadership. Packed with practical insights and inspiring stories, this conversation reframes board service as sacred work in service of the Church.
2026-01-1438 minThe Next Class 2.0Season 6 - Episode 4 - John Reyes & Angela MitchellJoin Rob Birdsell and Erin Barisano in this episode as they engage in a thought-provoking dialogue with John Reyes, Director of Research and Program Evaluation, and Angela Mitchell, Director of Leadership Formation Programs, both representing the Roche Center for Catholic Education.
This conversation explores critical themes shaping Catholic education today as reflected in Pope Leo’s recent Apostolic Letter "Drawing New Maps of Hope”.
2025-12-0156 minThe Next Class 2.0Season 6 - Episode 3 - Brandon JacobsJoin Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey as they dive into a thought-provoking episode with Brandon Jacobs, Search Consultant at Carney, Sandoe & Associates, as they explore the ever-evolving landscape of leadership in private and Catholic schools.
From rethinking traditional roles and expectations to embracing the humanity and imperfections of school leaders, this conversation challenges administrators to think outside the box when it comes to preparation and training. Brandon also shares insights into the value of partnering with executive search firms to find the right leaders, highlighting how this approach can elevate the process beyond what schools might achieve...
2025-10-3140 minThe Next Class 2.0Season 6 - Episode 2 - Marco ClarkIn this episode, Dr. Erin Barisano and Rob Birdsell connect with Marco Clark to kick things off. The conversation explores what excites Marco most about college life and how he’s navigating this new chapter. Erin reflects on this transition from high school student body president to leadership in higher education, while also addressing the challenges facing colleges today. Rob shares thoughtful advice for young leaders and offers insight into the Holy Cross charism, explaining how it continues to resonate with students in 2025.
For show notes and the transcript, please visit catholicvirtual.com/the-next-class-2-0-se...
2025-10-3138 minThe Next Class 2.0Season 6 - Pilot
Kicking off season 6 of The Next Class 2.0, host Robert Birdsell is joined by returning co-hosts Dr. Erin Barisano and Kent Hickey, along with new producer Carlos Cárdenas. This season introduces a refreshed format—each episode will start with a preview of the guest and topic, and wrap up with a debrief from the hosts. Upcoming conversations will explore mastery-based learning with assessment expert Laura Slover, insights from leaders new to their roles, trends in school leadership tenure, and best practices for working with boards. The season also highlights retreats for Catholic school leaders, drawing inspiration from the Gospels’ imagery of “g...
2025-08-0916 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 11 - Ashling PrestonIn this special unedited edition of The Next Class, hosts Rob Birdsell and Erin Barisano welcome Ashling Kelly Preston, Associate Director of Government Relations for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Recorded just days after the House passed historic federal school choice legislation, Ashling unpacks what this landmark moment means for Catholic schools nationwide. She details the structure, reach, and next steps of the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), its impact on families in every educational setting, and how Catholic institutions can prepare for what's ahead. A must-listen for diocesan leaders and school administrators navigating policy and...
2025-05-2831 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 10 - Kirsten OatesIn this episode of The Next Class, Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey sit down with spiritual leadership coach Kirsten Oates. With a background spanning law, consulting, and executive strategy at the Center for Action and Contemplation, Kirsten brings a unique blend of intellect and introspection. She shares how mysticism offers not just personal transformation, but practical, grounded tools for school leaders and educators navigating today’s complex educational landscape. From honoring the inner lives of teachers to integrating contemplative practice into leadership, Kirsten's insights offer a rare look at what it means to lead with depth, humility, and purpose.
2025-05-1933 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 9 - Kerry RobinsonIn this powerful episode, hosts Rob Birdsell and Erin Barisano sit down with Kerry Alys Robinson, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, to explore the vital role of faith, leadership, and service in today’s world.
Kerry shares her personal journey—from growing up in a legacy Catholic philanthropic family, to her work expanding Catholic life at Yale, and now leading one of the largest social service networks in the U.S. With a focus on crisis response, advocacy, and the empowerment of women in Church leadership, Kerry offers heartfelt wisdom and hope for the future of C...
2025-04-2829 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 8 - Jeff ThielmanIn this episode of Next Class 2.0, hosts Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey welcomes Jeff Thielman, President and CEO of the International Institute of New England. Jeff shares his unique journey from his Jesuit volunteer experience in Peru to leading one of the nation’s oldest immigration and refugee service organizations. The conversation dives deep into how faith, mission-driven leadership, and education shape our approach to serving immigrants and refugees. Jeff reflects on his time with Cristo Rey and how Catholic schools can play a powerful role in helping students understand immigration, social justice, and their own family histories. With re...
2025-03-2436 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 7 - Ed JenningsIn this episode, hosts Rob Birdsell, and Kent Hickey sit down with Ed Jennings, CEO of Quick Base, for an insightful conversation about leadership, adaptability, and lifelong learning.
The discussion covers the mindset and habits that fuel long-term success, leadership lessons from Ed’s personal and professional journey, how to balance high performance with team collaboration, time management strategies for busy professionals, and the impact of lifelong learning in business and education.
Ed shares personal stories, including leadership wisdom from his father, insights on building a thriving company, and reflections on what he wishes he kn...
2025-02-1334 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 6 - Lannie DavisIn this enlightening episode of The Next Class, hosts Rob Birdsell and Erin Barisano sit down with Lannie Davis, a trailblazer in inclusive education, to discuss her transformative work at the Julie Billiart Schools. From their humble beginnings as a single campus to their current multi-campus model in Ohio, Lannie reflects on her decade-long journey of serving students with special needs and her visionary approach to leadership. She delves into the "JB Way," the challenges of recruiting and retaining educators, and her dreams of expanding outside Ohio to states like Florida, which offer robust special needs scholarship programs.
2025-01-1739 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 5 - Lori StanleyJoin Rob Birdsell, Erin Barisano, and Lori Stanley in a thought-provoking discussion on faith and leadership in today’s world. From exploring Ignatian spirituality to leveraging technology for deeper connections, they share personal stories and insights that inspire and empower Catholic school leaders. Lori’s moving reflections on inclusion and belonging highlight the ongoing work for unity within faith communities. A conversation packed with wisdom, innovation, and heartfelt lessons you won’t want to miss!
2024-12-1139 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 4 - Kelby WoodardIn this episode of The Next Class, hosts Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey chat with Kelby Woodard, CEO of The Cristo Rey Network. From his start in corporate security to his unexpected pivot into politics and education, Kelby shares how his diverse background fuels his vision for Cristo Rey’s mission. Learn about his first year as CEO, the network's expansion, and the incredible impact on students across the U.S.
2024-11-1337 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 3 - Fr. Belmonte & Dr. RiggIn this insightful episode, host Rob Birdsell and co-host Dr. Erin Barisano engage with Dr. Jim Rigg and Fr. John Belmonte, superintendents from Miami and Sarasota. They explore Florida’s universal school choice and its benefits for Catholic education amid Miami’s cultural diversity. Fr. Belmonte shares the archdiocese’s rich history of supporting immigrant families and highlights scholarships that enhance access to quality private education for all families. Tune in for this insightful episode!
2024-10-2536 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 2 - Dan PorterfieldIn this episode, Rob Birdsell, Kent Hickey, and Dan Porterfield explore the transformative power of education, diving into how mentorship and growth mindsets shape student success. They discuss Dan's new book, "Mindset Matters", and how Catholic schools and higher ed can foster lifelong growth. A powerful conversation for educators everywhere!
2024-09-1844 minThe Next Class 2.0Season 5 - PilotKicking off season 5 of "The Next Class 2.0," host Robert Birdsell is joined by Dr. Erin Barisano and Kent Hickey to discuss the latest trends and innovations in education. The conversation dives into the importance of relationships in Catholic schools, the impact of school choice on enrollment, and how educators can maintain hope and foster growth in their communities. The episode also teases upcoming discussions with leading voices in education, offering listeners insights into the future of learning and leadership. They also delve into our first guest's book, "Mindset Matters: The Power of College to Activate Lifelong Growth" by Daniel...
2024-08-2835 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 9 - Casey Carter and Dan O'KeefeRob Birdsell hosts Casey Carter and Dan O'Keefe to discuss the transformative potential of generative AI in education. They explore how AI can shift focus from memorization to critical thinking and address concerns about AI biases and risks. The episode highlights the importance of educators embracing AI to enhance learning experiences.
Check out some reading recommendations from our guests below.
Human Compatible: Artificial Intelligence and the Problem of Control by Stuart J. Russell
Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies by Nick Bostrom
Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence by Max Tegmark
2024-07-0131 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 8 - Rick Hess and Mike McShaneIn this podcast episode, host Rob Birdsell talks with Mike McShane and Rick Hess about their new book, "Getting Education Right." They discuss conservative perspectives on education reform, the importance of personal responsibility, and thoughtful policy changes. They focus on early childhood education, the need for diverse learning choices, and the impact of influential teachers.
2024-05-3142 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 7 - Fr. James MartinIn this new podcast episode, Rob Birdsell is joined by Father James Martin. Fr. Martin explores the significance of Lazarus' resurrection, touching on art, literature, and the delay before his raising. He also shares personal insights, linking the biblical story to daily life and spirituality. Watch this full episode for more!
2024-03-2800 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 6 - Josh Hale and Chis Chandler (Part 2)Tune in for the continuation of Rob Birdsell, Josh Hale, and Chis Chandler's discussion on fundraising strategies and the teacher shortage crisis. Discover the power of authentic relationships with donors and alumni. Explore innovative tactics to retain school leaders and combat teacher turnover, emphasizing mission-driven leadership and support for educators.
2024-03-0742 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 6 - Josh Hale and Chis Chandler (Part 1)Join host Rob Birdsell in this exciting podcast episode as he welcomes guests Josh Hale and Chris Chandler to discuss the dynamic world of school leadership, with a special focus on fundraising for Catholic schools. Dive into their insightful conversation where they emphasize the vital role of relationship-building, genuine passion for the mission, and the humble approach needed in leadership. Get ready for practical strategies, captivating personal anecdotes, and a deep dive into the importance of supportive networks in navigating the multifaceted challenges of school leadership.
2024-02-0943 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 5 - Katie EverettIn this episode, Rob Birdsell, the host, welcomes Katie Everett, executive director of the Lynch Foundation. They discuss the foundation's focus on five areas, including Catholic education. Katie highlights the foundation's commitment to supporting Catholic schools and mentions the diverse initiatives they fund, from education to healthcare and global projects. Katie emphasizes the need for collaboration, innovative models, and a focus on serving diverse student populations. She challenges the traditional role of superintendents in Catholic school systems, suggesting a shift towards specialized management structures tailored to unique community needs.
2024-01-2442 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 4 - Sr. Vickie PerkinsIn this podcast episode, hosts Rob and Niko welcome Sister Vickie Perkins as their special guest. Sister Vickie, the founding president of Crystal Ray Kansas City, shares her inspiring journey. She discusses the inception of the school, breaking the cycle of poverty through education, and her current role in housing development for the marginalized. Sister Vickie also talks about the significance of Advent, exploring its deeper meaning, traditions, and the profound faith witnessed in those on the margins.
2023-12-1817 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 3 - Fr. Jeffery SullivanIn this week's new episode, meet Fr. Jeff Sullivan, serving as the assistant director of Campus Ministry at Creighton University. Join Rob as he delves into Fr. Jeff's insights on spiritual leadership within educational settings, the significance of prayer, and the avenues to discover and cultivate spiritual guidance.
2023-11-3034 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 2 - Lincoln SnyderLincoln Snyder is the President/CEO of the National Catholic Educational Association. In this episode, we explore Lincoln's thoughts on Catholic education in the US, new strategies for NCEA, and what he thinks about class choice. Tune in for the full episode!
2023-11-3034 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 1- Tim Uhl & Rob BirdsellIn this special episode of the "The Next Class" podcast, Rob Birdsell is joined by his guest Dr. Tim Uhl, a multifaceted education leader. Rob, the host of The Next Class podcast, holds the titles of Executive Vice-President at Amerigo Education, President of Catholic Virtual, and is the visionary founder of ILLE. This collaborative podcast episode, brings together two passionate hosts to dive into their current projects and share their enthusiasm for the upcoming year. Join them as they explore their latest ventures and what's on the horizon in the world of education.
2023-09-2747 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 10 - BJ CassinIn this episode, Rob and Tom get together with venture capitalist B.J. Cassin. B.J. founded and chaired the Cassin Educational Initiative Foundation, providing start-up funds for 25 Cristo Rey high schools nationwide!
2023-06-3034 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 9 - John ReyIn this episode, Rob gets together with John Rey for a live podcast. John is currently the Principal Consultant at Capa Pro, which provides training and infrastructure support to help education and nonprofit organizations.
2023-06-2334 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 8 - Kim SmithRob and Tom host a special guest named Kim Smith. Kim is an innovator and serial social entrepreneur. Kim has founded and had involvement with multiple companies including the Pahara Institute, Teach for America, New Schools Venture Fund and more!
2023-06-1635 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 7- Melodie WyttenbachJoin Rob and Tom as they welcome Melodie Wyttenbach, executive director of the Barbara and Patrick Roche Center for Catholic Education at the Lynch School of Education and Human Development.
2023-05-1940 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 6 - Josh HaleIn this episode, Rob and Tom welcome a special guest by the name of Josh Hale. Josh is the President and CEO of Big Shoulders Fund.
2023-05-1234 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 5 - Don ShalveyRob and Tom welcome Don Shalvey to the Next Class. Don is the founder of Aspire Public Schools, one of the first charter schools in America, and former Deputy Director of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
2023-03-0135 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 4 - Rob SchniedersRob and Tom welcome Rob Schnieders – the Vice President for Online Strategy and Innovation at Fairfield University and the former Co-Host of the Next Class!
2023-01-3032 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 3 - Brent MaddinRob and Tom welcome Bren Madden – the Executive Director, Next Education Workforce at Arizona State University. Brent shares his work around developing the next generation teacher work force.
2023-01-2040 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 2 - Jeanne AllenRob and Tom welcome Jeanne Allen – the founder and CEO of the Center for Education Reform. They dive deep into the NAEP scores and what it means for the students. Sponsored by Catholic Virtual.
2022-11-1827 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 1 - Jeb BushRob and Tom start the new season off with Jeb Bush, 43rd governor of the state of Florida, about the current state of education, online vs remote learning, and much more.
2022-11-0334 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 12 - Bishop HyingFor the first time Rob and Tom have an episcopal guest…the Most Reverend Donald Hying, Bishop of Madison, Wisconsin. Come hear about his new Catholic school, a web developer who has been beatified, what parents want from Catholic education, and snowmobiling.
2022-06-2929 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 11 - Jose MesaRob and Tom talk with Fr. Mesa, Secretary of Secondary and Pre-Secondary Education for the Society of Jesus (Jesuit), about what makes Jesuit education unique and about their interests in opening new Jesuit schools around the world.
2022-04-0832 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 10 - Rick HessRob and Tom talk with leading educational policy expert – Rick Hess – about what education will look like after the pandemic. Rick is the Director of Education Policy at the American Enterprise Institute.
2022-04-0137 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 9: Beginnings and Endings: A New Vision for EducationSomething different – Rob and Tom are the guests on The Next Class as they discuss the article “Beginnings and Endings: A New Vision for Education” and how online education can enhance traditional schools in six practical ways.
2022-03-1122 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 8 - Lincoln Snyder
Lincoln Snyder is the President/CEO of the National Catholic Educational Association and talks to Rob and Tom about Catholic education in the US, enrollment increases, and what he learned working for beverage companies in Europe.
2022-02-1729 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 7 - Fr. Steve Katsouros
Join Rob and Tom as they learn about another creative and growing education model from Fr. Katsouros, founder of Arrupe College in Chicago and current President/CEO of the Come to Believe Network.
2022-01-1438 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 6 - Dr. Philippe RichardRob and Tom go global with Dr. Philippe Richard, Secretary General of the International Office of Catholic Education from Rome. Learn what’s happening outside the US, next year’s World Congress, and why Philippe works with the UN and UNESCO.
2021-12-2825 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 5 - Fr. John FoleyFr. Foley founded the Cristo Rey Network, a new model of high school. But where did the inspiration come from? Join Rob and Tom as they hear from Fr. John about his work and thoughts on the future.
2021-12-2030 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 4 - Richard BarthDeveloping leaders, using data, and staying true to the mission. Join Rob and Tom as they talk with Richard Barth, CEO of the KIPP Foundation that supports 270 schools in the KIPP network.
2021-12-1338 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 3 - Joe WomacRob and Tom talk with Joe Womac (President of the Specialty Family Foundation) about how school leaders can engage with foundations.
2021-11-1540 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 2 - Kent HickeyOn this episode Rob and Tom are joined by the President of Seattle Jesuit Prep talking about school leadership challenges and the future of Catholic schools.
2021-11-0939 minThe Next Class 2.0Episode 1 - Fr. Dennis HoltschneiderRob and Tom talk about current and future state of higher education with Fr. Dennis Holtschneider (President of the American Catholic Colleges and University Association).
2021-11-0132 minThe Next Class 2.0PilotEducation veterans Rob Birdsell and Tom Burnford interview industry leaders about a wide range of topics related to the future of K-12 education. Sponsored by Catholic Virtual.
2021-11-0105 min