EduTechGuys

About EduTechGuys

EduTechGuys is a high-intensity rollercoaster ride of super fun which takes mortal form in the two distinct entities which are David Henderson and Jeff Madlock. Crafted in the fires of Mt. Wannahockaluggie, these two self-proclaimed high priests of edtech first started navigating the world of educational technology on the web through a podcast, over a ravine in a rainstorm in 2015 (Sharkbait, ooh ha ha). Since then the two have traveled the nation bringing their joy for silly puns and more importantly sharing the journey of each educator they encounter.

Publisher

EduTechGuys

Category

education · technology

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

2 Jun 2015

Latest episode

8 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

277 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   8 Sept 2026

   Ignite Reading - Co-Founder & CEO Jessica Reid Sliwerski

   Reading intervention is failing too many kids because schools keep trying to solve a first-grade problem years too late. Jessica Reid Sliwerski, co-founder and CEO of Ignite Reading (https://ignite-reading.com), shares the model she built to help students learn to read on time with one-to-one, daily, evidence-based support. As a lifelong educator who started in the Bronx and saw firsthand how inequity and poor reading instruction leave students behind, Jessica explains why the right intervention has to be precise, urgent, and built around the realities teachers face every day. She also breaks down how Ignite Reading pairs live tutors with adaptive tech, detailed formative data, and a simple 15- to 20-minute daily routine that fits inside the school day without overwhelming classroom teachers. You’ll discover: - Why so many schools misunderstand the science of reading - How Ignite Reading uses one-to-one tutoring to target exactly what each child needs - Why data should be translated for principals and district leaders, not buried in a dashboard - What it takes to train and certify tutors to a high bar - How the program supports teachers instead of adding to their workload Jessica also explains why Ignite Reading focuses on first grade, why “read by grade 3” can be dangerously late, and why the company will walk away from districts that are not truly committed to solving literacy gaps. It’s a candid look at what effective reading intervention actually requires, from classroom implementation to tutor quality to mission-driven leadership. Jessica Reid Sliwerski is the co-founder and CEO of Ignite Reading, a public benefit company focused on early literacy. A lifelong educator, she has worked in classrooms, school leadership, district support, and national curriculum reform, bringing deep experience in the science of reading and instructional design. Essential listening for teachers, principals, district leaders, and anyone who believes every child deserves the chance to become a confident reader on time. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ (https://www.patreon.com/edutechguys)

2. 

   4 Aug 2026

   Don Wettrick - STARTedUP Foundation

   Real innovation begins when teachers and students stop just talking and start doing. Don Wettrick (STARTedUP Foundation (https://www.startedupfoundation.org)) reveals how entrepreneurial thinking, AI, and real-world problem-solving are transforming high schools—and why most educators are just scratching the surface. In this candid conversation, Don shares why he stepped down from his CEO role to focus on inspiring teachers and students directly. He explains how the quality of student pitches has evolved—and how AI tools can both hype mediocrity and push talented students to even greater heights. Discover how students who once pitched imaginary ideas are now solving real problems, building companies, and even getting accepted into Y Combinator, all before graduation. You'll uncover: - Why the best entrepreneurs are the ones who embrace rejection and keep trying - How to differentiate between being busy and truly productive as a founder or educator - The importance of storytelling in building momentum and community - How grassroots movements and local partnerships accelerate change - Why teacher support and school culture are critical to nurturing innovative habits This episode dives deep into the challenges and opportunities of modern education—showing that the future belongs to those willing to disrupt the factory model. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, parent, or student, you’ll learn practical ways to foster entrepreneurial spirit that prepares youth for careers as problem solvers, creators, and leaders. Don Wettrick is an education innovator and founder of the Started Up Foundation (https://www.startedupfoundation.org), known for creating high-impact programs that encourage students to see challenges as opportunities. His work has transformed classrooms nationwide, empowering young entrepreneurs to think bigger and act faster. Perfect for educators hungry to reimagine their classrooms, entrepreneurs seeking fresh talent, or anyone passionate about how real change happens—from the ground up. Listen now and discover how to turn social media sparks, startup challenges, and even AI hype into powerful opportunities for growth and impact. Will you lead the next wave of educational innovation? Tune in to find out. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ (https://www.patreon.com/edutechguys)

3. 

   31 Jul 2026

   Checking in on the HashTags!

   Most educators and tech enthusiasts overlook the hidden chaos brewing behind the scenes of our schools — and the stakes couldn’t be higher. From AI missteps to robot classroom aides gone wrong, this episode pulls back the curtain on the wild, unpredictable future of education technology. If you think the classroom chaos of today is intense, wait until you hear about the bizarre AI failures, educator burnout, and state-level battles over robotic teachers that could redefine how our kids learn — or fail to learn — in the coming years. In this episode, we uncover the latest buzz on AI policies sweeping across states like Ohio, where mandates force districts to develop formal AI guidelines. We explore shocking real-world AI mishaps, like students accidentally generating inappropriate images using school software, and discuss whether these are teachable moments or just headlines begging for regulation. You'll discover how the push for robotic tutors, like the humanoid avatars slated for high schools, is meeting fierce public and political pushback, revealing a deep unease with relying on machines for human interaction. But it’s not just about the tech — we break down the burnout epidemic racing through your schools, fueled by endless demands, staffing shortages, and the overwhelming responsibilities placed on teachers. You'll learn why districts are juggling special needs students without adequate support, why educator disillusionment is soaring, and what it all means for the future of classroom learning. Plus, get insights on how social media hashtags reveal a clear snapshot of the real trending issues—teacher burnout, AI missteps, and the ever-present fight over funding. Why does this matter? Because ignoring these warning signs risks creating a generation of students disconnected from their teachers, while over-reliance on AI and robots could erode the core human relationship integral to education. The broader landscape is shifting rapidly, with regulations, budgets, and tech innovations all vying for control. If you’re an educator, parent, or policymaker, understanding these behind-the-scenes threats and opportunities is your best shot at shaping a smarter, safer future for learning. This episode is essential listening for anyone passionate about education’s future—whether you’re in the classroom, a district leader, or simply curious about how technology will shape our schools. Join us as we explore the chaos, challenges, and opportunities lurking just beneath the surface of today’s education system. Don't miss the insights that could help you navigate, and perhaps even influence, the next era of teaching and learning. Visit: EduTechGuys.com (https://www.edutechguys.com) ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ (https://www.patreon.com/edutechguys)

Who has been a guest on EduTechGuys

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Dr Aditya Nagrath
• Seth Fleischauer
• Jessica Hull
• Jon Gillham
• Marcio Sequeira

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

14 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Contact EduTechGuys

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

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