Voices of Innovation invites big thinkers with bold ideas to talk about the influence of technology in today's society. The series is hosted by Lev Gonick, chief information officer at Arizona State University.
What can video games teach us about the future of education—and AI?
In this episode of Voices of Innovation, Lev Gonick sits down with Deirdre Quarnstrom, Vice President of Education at Microsoft, for a fascinating conversation recorded at the 2026 ASU+GSV Summit.From her unconventional journey from Xbox to education leadership, Deirdre shares how game design principles are transforming how students learn—and how those same lessons are shaping the future of AI in the classroom.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
• How Minecraft became a global tool for learning and creativity in classrooms
• Why “productive struggle” and engagement are key to student success
• How game-based learning builds skills like collaboration, problem-solving, and persistence
• The parallels between early skepticism of gaming in education and today’s AI adoption
• Why starting small is critical when implementing AI in education
• What an AI-powered future could look like for educators and students
Deirdre also shares her perspective on where we are in the AI hype cycle—and why the focus should shift from technology to real educational outcomes.
Voices of Innovation is a podcast series featuring bold thinkers exploring the impact of technology on society and the future of education.
This episode was recorded at the 2026 ASU+GSV Summit.
Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of technology, learning, and innovation.#AIinEducation #GameBasedLearning #EdTech #MinecraftEducation #HigherEducation #ASUGSV #VoicesOfInnovation
23 Apr 2026
Mark Milliron: Avoid educational malpractice
How are universities rethinking education in the age of AI?
In this episode of Voices of Innovation, Mark Milliron, President of National University and proud Sun Devil, joins host Lev Gonick to explore innovative approaches to teaching, learning, and leadership in a rapidly changing landscape.From practical AI frameworks to whole-human education, this conversation highlights how institutions can evolve to better serve today’s learners.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How National University’s Raise 5 framework is guiding faculty use of AI
• What the “Anders” model means for whole-human education
• How universities can adapt to meet the needs of modern students
• Why innovation in higher education requires both strategy and empathy
Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of technology, leadership, and the future of education.#HigherEducation #AIinEducation #EdInnovation #Leadership #VoicesOfInnovation
23 Apr 2026
Bridget Burns: This is bigger than tech
What does it take to build an AI-ready university?
In this episode of Voices of Innovation, Lev Gonick sits down with Bridget Burns, CEO of the University Innovation Alliance, to explore how higher education leaders are navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape.Drawing from conversations with institutional leaders across the country, Bridget shares what she’s hearing on the frontlines—and what it really takes to scale innovation in today’s environment.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
• What higher ed leaders are saying about AI right now
• How institutions can effectively scale innovation with AI
• The key traits of an AI-ready university
• Why collaboration is critical in times of transformation
Voices of Innovation is a podcast series featuring bold thinkers exploring the impact of technology on society.
All episodes in Drop 3 were recorded at the 2026 ASU+GSV Summit.
Subscribe for more conversations on the future of education and technology.#HigherEducation #AIinEducation #Innovation #EdLeaders #ASUGSV #VoicesOfInnovation
Who has been a guest on Voices of Innovation
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Sasha Thackaberry-Voinovich
Anne Keehn
Ellen Levy
Kemi Jona
Rahim Rajan
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