439 The College vs. Career Myth Is Hurting Students

439 The College vs. Career Myth Is Hurting Students

June 17, 2026 · 57 min · Season 12 · Episode 24

About this episode

Chris NeSmith discusses the limitations of the college vs. career mindset in education and explores better pathways for student readiness.

What if the biggest problem in education isn't students but the system we've built around them? In this thought provoking episode, superintendent and education innovator Chris NeSmith challenges the outdated "college vs. career" mindset that continues to limit student opportunities. Chris shares lessons from Germany's apprenticeship system, explains why career pathways should open doors instead of close them, and reveals how schools can better connect academics, workforce readiness, and real world experience. We dive into youth apprenticeships, mastery based learning, AI, durable skills, leadership, and why many schools are rewarded for the perception of success rather than actual student outcomes. If you're an educator, administrator, parent, policymaker, or workforce leader, this conversation will challenge how you think about student readiness and the future of education. Powered by YouScience Brightpath. YouScience Brightpath, the next generation platform helping students make personalized decisions as they move from education to career. If you are serious about connecting students to real opportunities, head to youscience.com/disrupteducation-podcast . Request a…

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Host: Disrupt Education Podcast

Guest: Chris NeSmith

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