Best VIVACITY Podcasts (2025)

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Funding Fairness: Public vs Private RTOs 30:13

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18h ago30:13

30:13

🎙 In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards, with Lauren Hollows, dives into one of the biggest funding battles in Australia’s VET sector—the growing inequality between TAFE NSW and private RTOs. Private RTOs are under increasing pressure as TAFE NSW now receives 80% of all Smart and Skilled funding—despite data showing …

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Credential Chaos: Mapping Your Trainers to the 2025 Standards 9:52

2d ago9:52

9:52

In this practical episode, Angela Connell-Richards helps you decode the updated credential requirements for trainers and assessors under the new 2025 Standards. If you’re unsure whether your team meets current expectations—or how to evidence it—this episode is your step-by-step guide. Key points discussed: ✅ What the Credential Policy now requires …

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VET Talks: Future-Proof Your RTO - Embracing the 2025 Standards with Confidence 1:07:03

7d ago1:07:03

1:07:03

VET Talks: Future-Proof Your RTO - Embracing the 2025 Standards with Confidence In this insightful episode of VETtalks, join Scott Rogers (CEO of eSkilled) and Angela Connell (CEO of Vivacity RTO Consulting) for a focused Q&A on navigating the upcoming 2025 Standards for RTOs. With major reforms now on the horizon, this episode dives into why it’s …

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LLND in the Real World: What RTOs Must Know About Standard 2.2 39:53

9d ago39:53

39:53

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards and co-host Maciek Fibrich unpack one of the most misunderstood aspects of the 2025 Standards for RTOs—Standard 2.2, with a laser focus on assessing Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital (LLND) skills prior to enrolment. There’s been growing confusion in the VET sector: 🌀 Do R…

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At the Brink: Why Private RTOs Can’t Afford Another Year of Funding Cuts 24:35

11d ago24:35

24:35

In this urgent episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards takes you inside a growing crisis in Australia’s vocational education sector. Private RTOs—who deliver over 70% of the nation’s training—are being hit with devastating funding cuts, unfunded compliance reforms, and a wave of closures that threaten access, jobs, and student…

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Episode 15 | Unpacking the Impact of Tariffs on K12 Tech and District Budgets with Bo Patterson 14:30

15d ago14:30

14:30

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo sits down with Bo Patterson to unpack the impact of tariffs on the K-12 tech industry and school budgets. They explore how Vivacity Tech is helping districts adapt, from utilizing refurbished devices and buybacks to smart procurement and brand-new service plans like FleetAssure. Bo shares real-world insights into…

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We Updated Our Policies… So We’re Compliant, Right? 8:31

16d ago8:31

8:31

In this thought-provoking episode, Angela Connell-Richards challenges the common assumption that simply updating your policies and procedures means your RTO is compliant. She explores the deeper truth behind the new Standards: implementation, understanding, and continuous review are what really matter now. Key points discussed: ✅ Why policy updates…

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Episode 50: ITS UK's Max Sugarman on taking a strategic approach to transportation technology 27:34

21d ago27:34

27:34

Max Sugarman is chief executive of ITS UK. In conversation with TTi editor Tom Stone, Max discusses the organisation’s recently published manifesto, the perks of membership and taking a strategic approach to transportation technology. Interview begins at 3:30By TrafficTechnologyInternationalPodcast

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The Blind Leading the Compliant 45:44

22d ago45:44

45:44

As we race towards the 1 July 2025 implementation of the Revised Standards for RTOs, one uncomfortable truth is becoming clear: many RTOs are more prepared than the national regulator itself. In this unfiltered and empowering bonus episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards takes you behind the scenes of what’s really happening w…

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The Top 5 Mistakes RTOs Are Still Making Before July — And How to Fix Them Now 9:59

23d ago9:59

9:59

In this timely episode, Angela Connell-Richards tackles the most common mistakes RTOs are making as they scramble to prepare for the 1 July 2025 Standards deadline. Drawing on her work with dozens of RTOs in recent months, Angela shines a light on the blind spots, oversights, and shortcuts that could cost you dearly—and, most importantly, explains …

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Audit Triggers You’re Not Watching: Scope, Complaints & High-Risk Products 9:41

1M ago9:41

9:41

In this insight-packed episode, Angela Connell-Richards uncovers the silent risks that could land your RTO in an ASQA audit—even if you’ve already met the 1 July deadline. From additions to scope, to complaints, to the delivery of high-risk qualifications, Angela shows how audit triggers have changed—and what RTOs must now do to stay audit-ready. K…

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Marketing vs Misleading – Staying Compliant in How You Promote Training 8:32

1M ago8:32

8:32

In this essential episode, Angela Connell-Richards tackles one of the most overlooked audit risks for RTOs—non-compliant marketing. With the 2025 Standards now in full effect, your course flyers, website, and social media content are all under ASQA’s lens. Angela explores how a single misleading phrase can trigger an audit—and what you can do to st…

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Policies with Purpose: How I’m Rewriting Compliance for the 2025 8:58

1M ago8:58

8:58

In this episode, Angela takes you behind the scenes of her massive compliance rewrite project. Discover why 2025 is the year to rethink—not just update—your policies and procedures. Angela shares the philosophy, strategy, and practical steps she’s using to ensure Vivacity’s documents empower RTOs to meet the new Standards with confidence. Key point…

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Countdown to Compliance – Your Final 6-Week RTO Survival Guide 8:40

2M ago8:40

8:40

In this episode, Angela Connell-Richards breaks down the essential roadmap for RTOs facing the final stretch before the 1 July 2025 Standards go live. With just six weeks left, this survival guide helps you focus, prioritise, and take action without overwhelm. Angela shares her insider tips, drawn from decades of experience, to help you make the mo…

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Leading Through Challenge: My Journey Navigating Business, Health, and Hope 6:02

2M ago6:02

6:02

In this deeply personal episode, Angela Connell-Richards, CEO of Vivacity and host of the RTO Superhero Podcast, opens up about her recent diagnoses of thyroid cancer and renal cancer — and how early detection, proactive care, and strong leadership systems have helped her navigate both business and health challenges with resilience and clarity. Ang…

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Episode 49: Kirk Steudle on working under different administrations and the latest exciting tech 29:58

2M ago29:58

29:58

Kirk Steudle is legendary former Michigan DOT director. In conversation with TTi editor Tom Stone, he discusses what it's like working under different administrations and his own perspective on moving from the public to the private sector as well as proving an industry overview including the latest tech that excites him. The episode is sponsored by…

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Under Pressure: International Education, ASQA Scrutiny & the Future of CRICOS RTOs with Lauren Boon-Hollows 1:10:00

2M ago1:10:00

1:10:00

In this explosive episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards is joined by compliance powerhouse Lauren Boon-Hollows to unpack the growing crisis in international education across Australia. From mounting government pressure and audit inconsistencies to the harsh realities facing CRICOS RTOs, Angela and Lauren aren’t pulling any p…

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Assessment Alignment: Valid, Reliable & Audit-Ready 48:32

2M ago48:32

48:32

In this powerful episode, Angela Connell-Richards sits down with assessment expert Maciek Fibriek to unpack one of the most critical topics under the new 2025 Standards—assessment practices and audit readiness. Together, they dive deep into: ✅ What’s actually changed under Standard 1.3 ✅ Why fit-for-purpose assessment means contextualising for your…

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Trainer Compliance Under the New Standards: What RTOs Must Do Now with Lauren Boon-Hollows 35:05

2M ago35:05

35:05

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards and Lauren Hollows explore the essential elements of structured and engaging training that meets compliance under Standards 1.1 & 1.2. They break down how to design well-paced training programs, avoid the pitfalls of condensed courses, and ensure students remain engaged throughou…

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VET Workforce Management & Industry Experts – What RTOs Need to Know with Maciek Fibrich 19:54

3M ago19:54

19:54

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, host Angela Connell-Richards is joined once again by Maciek Fibrich, RTO coach and compliance expert, to unpack the major changes in Quality Area 3 – VET Workforce Management under the new 2025 Standards for RTOs. With a fresh focus on whole-of-organisation workforce management, these changes mean that …

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The New Standards Have Landed: What RTOs Need to Know Now with Lauren Boon-Hollows 50:49

3M ago50:49

50:49

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards is joined by Lauren Hollows to discuss the critical role of clear and transparent student information under Standards 2.1 & 2.2. They break down what RTOs must communicate before enrolment, how to avoid misleading marketing, and why realistic course durations are essential for co…

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Episode 48: Wes Marshall on his book 'Killed by a Traffic Engineer' 40:43

3M ago40:43

40:43

Wes Marshall is a traffic engineer and author. His new book - Killed by a Traffic Engineer: Shattering the Delusion that Science Underlies Our Transportation System - is a fascinating exploration of why we continue to engineer roads that are literally killing its drivers via an industry focussed only on how to get from point A to B in the fastest w…

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Breaking Down the New RTO Standards – Risk Management & Compliance with Maciek Fibrich 30:57

3M ago30:57

30:57

🎙️ Episode 8: The Essentials of a Compliant Training System In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards is joined by Maciek Fibrich to explore what it takes to build a compliant, high-quality training system under the revised Standards for RTOs (1.1 & 1.2). They break down the key compliance requirements, common pitfalls, …

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Episode 14 | Unlocking Value at Vivacity with Ben Erickson 23:22

3M ago23:22

23:22

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo sits down with Ben Erickson, Chief Revenue Officer, at Vivacity Tech, to discuss the company’s innovative approach to supporting schools and IT directors as they navigate the AI tool landscape. Ben shares valuable insights on how tech directors can pilot Gemini Education, Google's generative AI tool, to streamlin…

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The New RTO Standards 2025: What You Need to Know 22:30

3M ago22:30

22:30

🚨 The wait is over! The New Standards for RTOs 2025 are finalised and come into effect on 1 July 2025. If you’re an RTO owner, compliance manager, trainer, or assessor, this episode is a must-listen! In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, host Angela Connell-Richards breaks down everything you need to know about the new compliance framework,…

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Supporting Students with Disabilities – What RTOs Must Do with Lauren Boon-Hollows 30:01

4M ago30:01

30:01

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards and Lauren Hollows explore supporting students with disabilities under the revised Standards for RTOs. With a greater emphasis on reasonable adjustments, compliance, and trainer responsibilities, they break down what RTOs need to do to ensure inclusive, accessible training. 🎙️ Ke…

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The Future of Vocational Education in Australia with Maciek Fibrich 41:50

4M ago41:50

41:50

Welcome back to the RTO Superhero Podcast! In this episode, host Angela Connell-Richards is joined once again by Maciek Fibrich, who is caravanning around Australia while working with RTOs. Together, they explore the future of vocational education in Australia and the impact of the new standards for RTOs. In this thought-provoking discussion, Angel…

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Episode 47: MAV System's game-changing ANPR camera 44:22

4M ago44:22

44:22

Andy Humphries and Chris Shepherd, respectively managing director and lead product and support manager for MAV Systems, chat with TTi editor Tom Stone about the AiQ, the company’s new ANPR camera, as well supporting different sectors, edge processing and the challenge of ghost plates. This episode is sponsored by MAV Systems.…

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Understanding VET Student Support – What’s Changing? with Lauren Boon-Hollows 36:45

4M ago36:45

36:45

Join Angela Connell-Richards and Lauren Hollows in this insightful episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, where they break down the changes to VET Student Support Services under the Revised Standards for RTOs. With the introduction of Standards 2.3 and 2.4, student support has now been given its own Quality Area, significantly impacting how RTOs mus…

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Choosing the Right RTO Consultant: Avoiding Pitfalls and Ensuring Compliance Success 19:58

4M ago19:58

19:58

Not all consultants are created equal—and choosing the wrong one can cost you everything. In this episode, Angela Connell-Richards reveals the hidden dangers of hiring cheap, inexperienced consultants—and why “you get what you pay for” is more true than ever in RTO land. You’ll hear real stories (including one facing a tribunal 😱), learn how to spo…

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Breaking Down the New Standards – What RTOs Need to Know with Maciek Fibrich 37:43

4M ago37:43

37:43

In this episode of the RTO Superhero Podcast, host Angela Connell-Richards is joined for the first time by Maciek Fibrich, who will be a regular guest throughout the year as they unpack the Revised Standards for RTOs. Together, they break down what RTOs need to know right now about the compliance changes, including: 📜 What’s changing (and what’s no…

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Episode 46 - Safer fleets with Peter Goldwasser 17:17

4M ago17:17

17:17

Peter Goldwasser is executive director of Together for Safer Roads. In conversation with TTi editor Tom Stone, Peter discusses his international NGO, the use of AI 360 camera technology on large commercial vehicles to reduce blind zones, and the organisation's "truck of the future" pilot. Interview begins 5:15…

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Adapting to New Training Standards: Compliance and Risk Management in RTOs with Lauren Boon-Hollows 50:10

5M ago50:10

50:10

In this power-packed first episode of 2025, host Angela Connell-Richards is joined by industry legend Lauren Hollows to unpack what the Revised Standards for RTOs really mean—and why waiting to prepare could cost you big. 💡 You’ll learn: What’s changing from 1 July 2025—and why it matters The risks of leaving compliance to the last minute How ASQA’…

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Episode 45 - MJ Maynard on the use of AI in Vegas 27:14

5M ago27:14

27:14

MJ Maynard is CEO of the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) for Southern Nevada. In conversation with TTi editor Tom Stone, MJ offers a deep dive into the RTC's use of AI in the Las Vegas area, including technology that can zero in on a weapon. This episode is sponsored by Q-Free Interview begins 5:15…

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Episode 13 | A Year in Review with Vivacity Tech's Eli Maloley 22:11

5M ago22:11

22:11

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo sits down with Eli Maloley, founder of Vivacity Tech, to reflect on the company's incredible journey through 2024. Eli shares milestones, from securing a patent to achieving substantial revenue growth, all while emphasizing the role of the passionate Vivacity team. Diving into challenges, Eli discusses how the te…

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Episode 44 - V2X with Brian Cronin 31:28

6M ago31:28

31:28

Brian Cronin is director of the ITS joint programme office at the US DOT. In conversation with TTi editor Tom Stone, Cronin discusses the V2X deployment program he oversees, pilot projects, OEM buy-in and what the new Trump administration might mean for the DOT. This episode is sponsored by Q-Free.By TrafficTechnologyInternationalPodcast

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Episode 12 44:57

6M ago44:57

44:57

In this episode, host Nicky Acevedo and Drew Sidel dive into the extensive security features of Google Workspace for Education, highlighting their benefits for schools. Drew emphasizes the importance of robust security tools provided even in the free editions, securing schools against threats efficiently without the need for expensive third-party s…

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Episode 43 - Asset management with Jochen Reiss of Hexagon 26:15

7M ago26:15

26:15

Jochen Reiss is part of Hexagon’s asset life cycle intelligence division. In conversation with TTi editor Tom Stone, Jochen will discuss managing transit and infrastructure assets, visualising your assets in real time, what a badly managed asset looks like, and data collection. This episode is sponsored by Hexagon, a global leader in sensor and sof…

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Episode 11 34:22

8M ago34:22

34:22

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo chats with Erick Buenrostro, a digital resource and content specialist with over 12 years of experience in education. Erick shares his insights on integrating AI tools like Google's Gemini for Education into schools, highlighting its responsiveness and security features, which make it an invaluable resource for studen…

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Episode 42 - AI traffic monitoring with VivaCity's Anna Keren 21:29

8M ago21:29

21:29

Anna Keren is chief technology officer with AI traffic monitoring and signal control firm, VivaCity. In conversation with TTi editor Tom Stone, Anna discusses the company’s mission, sharing near miss data with traffic planners and VivaCity’s forthcoming TTi webinar Using AI and Computer Vision to Achieve Vision Zero and Net Zero Goals. To register …

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Episode 10 43:25

8M ago43:25

43:25

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo chats with Kim Zimmer, the co-director of learning and innovation at Aspen School District. They dive into Aspen’s transition from a BYOD policy to adopting Chromebook Plus. Kim highlights how this move addresses equity concerns and enhances device management while providing students with high-performance tools for le…

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Episode 09 33:48

8M ago33:48

33:48

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo sits down with Drew Sidel, the Head of Google Workspace for North America, about the exciting deployment of Gemini AI. Drew discusses how Gemini is integrated within Google Workspace tools like Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and Slides, making AI accessible without significant change management. Teachers, administrators, and IT…

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VIVÁC Winery one of New Mexico's rising stars 31:25

8M ago31:25

31:25

Sip, share, shape our podcast! Join us this episode on a road trip to New Mexico to visit the team at Vivác Winery. Brothers Jesse and Chris Padberg share their journey from college students and European explorers to winemakers. With an adventurous spirit and the perfect location for growing grapes, their story continues with award winning wines an…

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Episode 41 - The future of tolling with Pat Jones, CEO of the IBTTA 29:57

8M ago29:57

29:57

Pat Jones, executive director and CEO of the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA) talks about the challenges of replacing fuel tax with road user charging, the Be Safe Together campaign, the upcoming annual meeting of the IBTTA - and the benefits of being based in Washington DC.…

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Cotes de Bordeaux through the eyes of Chateau Couchebout 40:17

9M ago40:17

40:17

Sip, share, shape our podcast! You may never have heard of the Cotes of Bordeaux. Great, we're here to share this amazing Bordeaux appellation and Bordeaux wine with you through our interview with Bruno Lallemand from Chateau Couchebout in the Cotes de Bourg region. Neither Left Bank nor Right Bank, Couchebout produces amazing red wines in their ow…

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Non Alcoholic Wines: These wine alternatives are on trend and growing! 40:31

9M ago40:31

40:31

Sip, share, shape our podcast! In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of non alcoholic wines, a rapidly growing category with impressive stats. Alcohol free, zero alcohol, alcohol removed, whatever you want to call it, these wine alternatives are claiming a regular space on wine lists at tremendous rates. Beyond grape juice, these wines h…

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Low Sugar Wines: How Madame Zero is changing the game in Champagne 1:06:02

10M ago1:06:02

1:06:02

Sip, share, shape our podcast! Hidden sugar in wine may sound scary or gross, but there are winemakers with 100% focus on low sugar wine!. We host Madame Zero's source of inspiration, Mathew Massey, to share how his vision for low sugar wines, Champagne to be exact, is playing out in fabulous style. Buzz words in wine from sugar free wine, zero sug…

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Podcast #40 - ITS World Congress preview special with Joost Vantomme, CEO, ERTICO 22:43

10M ago22:43

22:43

Joost Vantomme is chief executive of ERTICO, ITS Europe. In this ITS World Congress preview special, he talks in detail with TTi editor Tom Stone about what to expect at this year's 30th anniversary event in Dubai. Plus news and conversation with Tom Stone and editor-at-large Saul Wordsworth.By TrafficTechnologyInternationalPodcast

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Beyond Bottles: Exploring Alternative Packaging for Wine 56:34

10M ago56:34

56:34

Sip, share, shape our podcast! Do you think bottles are the only way to package wine? We're here to change the way you think about alternative packaging for wine! In the world of wine trends, packaging for wine may not be the sexiest, but we think there are some pretty cool things going on! We're not talking about ordinary wine storage boxes or win…

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Episode 08 38:55

10M ago38:55

38:55

In this episode, Nicky Acevedo chats with Anthony Padrnos, the Executive Director of Technology at Osseo Area Schools. Anthony shares insights on how understanding the "why" behind instructional design can transform educational environments. He emphasizes that effective teaching relies on high-quality educators who adapt to students' needs, leverag…