Active Listener, a Lightspeed Podcast

As technology continues to evolve, how can schools ensure innovation serves learning rather than distracting from it? In this episode of Active Listener, Dominique Johnson-Lindsay sits down with Jesse Lubinsky, Principal Education Evangelist at Adobe, former educator, administrator, and author to explore the role of purposeful technology in today's classrooms. Jesse shares practical insights on how educators can embrace emerging tools while keeping students at the center of the learning experience. Together, they discuss the opportunities, challenges, and responsibilities that come with innovation, and why the future of education depends on using technology with intention.Resources: Jesse Lubinsky's Website Connect on LinkedIn Adobe for Education Partial Credit Podcast Learn More About Lightspeed

In this episode of the Active Listener Podcast, host Dominique Johnson-Lindsay speaks with Craig Straw, Director of Safety and Emergency Management at Houston ISD, the eighth-largest school district in the nation. With over 30 years of military and emergency management experience, Craig shares how a “people-first” mindset, mental health awareness, and early intervention form the foundation of effective school safety. Listen in as Craig discusses why readiness is a daily practice, the importance of building trusted relationships, and how technology can serve as a force multiplier when integrated with strong communication systems. From drills that build muscle memory to balancing safety at large-scale events like Friday night football games, Craig offers a holistic view of what it means to keep campuses safe, secure, and nurturing. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or community leader, this conversation underscores that true school safety isn’t about fear - it’s about connection, preparation, and ensuring every student can thrive.

In this inspiring episode of The Active Listener Podcast, host Dominique Johnson-Lindsay sits down with Katy Kollasch, Chief Entrepreneur and Change Agent at the Venture Academy of Leadership and Entrepreneurship (VALE) in Parker, Colorado. With over two decades in education and an international teaching background, Katy shares her remarkable journey from the UK to founding a groundbreaking high school model in the U.S. Katy unpacks the vision behind VALE and its mission to cultivate students with entrepreneurial mindsets, preparing them for both the world that exists today and the one we can’t yet predict. She dives into how the school fosters a culture rooted in curiosity, design thinking, and intentionality - leveraging community partnerships, design sprints, and real-world internships every Friday. Discover how VALE integrates technology, including Lightspeed classroom audio, to create inclusive, accessible, and engaging learning environments. Learn how they intentionally build soft skills like empathy and communication alongside academic excellence, and hear Katy’s candid reflections on parenting, leadership, and what it takes to disrupt the traditional education model. Perfect for educators, school leaders, parents, and anyone passionate about the future of K–12 education, this episode offers a visionary look at what’s possible when we rethink how students learn and thrive.

Physical Education teacher Amber Reynolds shares how she builds an inclusive, supportive environment at Summit View Elementary, turning gym class into a space for every student to shine.

Welcome to Season 2 of the Active Listener Podcast, hosted by Dominique Johnson-Lindsay. In this enlightening session, Dominique welcomes Lisa DeLapo, the Information and Instructional Technology Director at Union School District, San Jose, California. Join us as Lisa shares her journey from the medical field to education, detailing her path to becoming a tech director. Listen in as Lisa discusses her experiences during the pandemic, how technology reshaped educational practices, and which tools are here to stay. Discover the unique makerspaces at Union School District, designed to inspire creativity and critical thinking in students through hands-on learning. See how the district fosters an environment of innovation through the integration of STEAM projects and interactive spaces. Gain insights into the challenges of adopting new technologies in schools, and learn about strategies to engage educators and students alike. From the benefits of instructional audio technology to new safety integrations, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the intersection of technology and education. Perfect for educators, administrators, and anyone passionate about the future of learning!

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