The 10 Most Inspiring Education Leaders to Follow in 2025

ducation E xcellence M a g a z ine The 10 Equity-Centered Leadership Most Moving from Intent to Impact Inspiring Leading for Education Wellbeing The New Mandate Leaders for School Leaders to Follow in 2025 Mikhail Brodsky President, Lincoln University Mikhail Mikhail Mikhail Brodsky Brodsky Brodsky The Mathematician Rewriting the Rules of Belonging

Learning is not a race to the finish, but a walk toward understanding.

Editor’s ducation E xcellence M a g a z ine Word Education Vanguards. Spotlighting the Publisher Education Excellence Magazine ducation is no longer just about the transfer of Managing Editor Mia Jones knowledge; it is about transformation. Classrooms are E shifting from chalkboards to chatbots, textbooks to Art and Design Head Stacy Walker tactile experiences, and rigid syllabi to adaptive, personalized learning journeys. The need for reimagination is no longer a Business Development Manager Stacy Jacobs polite invitation — it's an undeniable summons. Students today aren't preparing for a predictable future; they're preparing to Executives Mark Johnson, Sara Ali lead one that hasn't been written yet. For education to remain relevant, it must not simply react — it must reimagine. Michael Smith This edition, The 10 Most Inspiring Education Leaders to Follow in 2025, introduces the individuals who aren't just Marketing Manager Kevin Thompson responding to change, they are creating momentum. These leaders are rethinking structures, rebuilding trust, and placing Technical Head Sarah Lopez human potential at the center of every strategy. They are visionaries, reformers, and quiet disruptors who believe that education can and must do more. Digital Marketing Manager Harry Wood The purpose of this edition is to spotlight those who are daring Circulation Manager Adam Brown enough to challenge convention and compassionate enough to place learners at the heart of every decision. These are leaders who blend insight with action, and theory with impact. By sharing their journeys, we hope to ignite conversations, provoke new thinking, and highlight the transformative power of intentional leadership. As we look toward the classrooms, campuses, and communities For any advertising related information or any feedback please contact of tomorrow, the shape of education will depend on the courage of its leaders today. The future belongs to those who can teach info@educationexcellencemagazine Submissions as well as not just for today's exams, but for tomorrow's unknowns — contributions to the magazine are welcome! with empathy, agility, and purpose. These ten leaders are not just part of the future of education — they are helping to define it. Follow us on Ryan. parker - Managing Editor

Table of Contents Benedek Szilagyi Breaking the Mold of Traditional Education 16 Profiles Mikhail Brodsky The Mathematician Rewriting James Lees the Rules of Belonging Bringing Real Learning to Remote Places 26 06 Russell Cullingworth Transforming Professional Development Through Innovative StoryStyle Audio Learning 38 Equity-Centered Leadership Artilces Cover 22 Moving from Intent to Impact St?y Leading for Wellbeing 34 The New Mandate for School Leaders

Mikhail Brodsky The Mathematician Rewriting the Rules of Belonging Mikhail Brodsky President, Lincoln University Cover Story www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 06 07

The 10 Most Inspiring Education Leaders to Follow in 2025 ome students arrive with His academic success administration as a creative a fire already lit. Others eventually led him to UC pursuit that, much like S come searching for the Berkeley, a significant research, demands spark. But many of them want milestone that marked his discernment between what transition from the Soviet Union truly matters and what simply the same thing: to be seen, not over three decades ago. accompanies the process. As scanned. To be taught, not managed. To be challenged, However, after years dedicated education continues to evolve, not processed. They want to research, Mikhail Mikhail remains focused on lectures that lead to questions, experienced a turning absorbing new information and not just answers. They want to point—what he describes as a refining approaches to ensure sit in rooms where ideas are possible midlife crisis—that the university stays exchanged like currency, where sparked a desire for change. competitive. He credits his the conversation flows both While he remained committed background in mathematics ways, and where who they are to academia, he sought a new for honing the critical thinking matters just as much as what challenge that would allow him and structured problem- they submit. More than to contribute in a different solving skills that support his credentials or credits, they are capacity. Taking on a work today. hunting for something harder leadership role at a small to name, a place where private university became the The President Who Keeps His learning still feels human. ideal path, offering a fresh Door and Mind Open sense of purpose while staying But that search often runs into true to his academic Mikhail describes himself as cold, bureaucratic walls. At background. perhaps the most accessible many universities, students are university president a student shuffled through programs like During his time at UC Berkeley, could meet. At Lincoln boxes on a conveyor belt, their Mikhail immersed himself in University, his door is open to curiosity dulled by research—a discipline that everyone—students, faculty, overcrowded classrooms, continues to shape his and staff—no appointment auto-graded assignments, and leadership style and necessary. From advising faculty too stretched to perspective on higher students to responding to remember a name past week education. He sees university whatever challenges arise two. International students are met with paperwork before people, tuition before trust. That's why Lincoln University feels like an outlier. It doesn't shout, it doesn't trend, but under the quiet leadership of We celebrate diversity not as a Mikhail Brodsky, it has become a place where students feel strategy, but as a strength. It's this visible again. shared value that makes Lincoln University a place where students A Scholar's Leap into Leadership feel heard, valued, and empowered. Mikhail, President of Lincoln University, began his career deeply rooted in mathematics and statistics, with a strong focus on research. www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 08 09

throughout the day, he ability to identify the right Mikhail emphasizes that measures for improvement. embraces a hands-on, inclusion at Lincoln University Yet, finding those measures responsive approach. What he begins with a single word: isn't always straightforward. It finds most fulfilling is his respect. When addressing new requires experimentation, data engagement with graduate students during welcome collection, and a process of students, particularly when sessions, he highlights that refining metrics through real- guiding them in choosing their respecting others, regardless of world learning. At Lincoln, thesis topics, where his passion culture, background, or role—is students are encouraged to think critically about how they for academic growth and a foundational value at the measure performance, mentorship comes alive. university. This includes outcomes, and value—a honoring the cultural richness process that reflects the Honoring a Legacy of of the international student school's commitment to Thoughtful Education body, showing regard for rigorous, practical, and instructors and peers, and forward-looking education. Reflecting on Lincoln embracing the spirit of Adapting to the Digital Shift University's mission, Mikhail California's local culture. In his emphasizes its commitment to view, this shared ethos of Mikhail was once a strong being an affordable, respect fosters a welcoming, advocate for face-to-face independent, nonprofit empowered, and united teaching, valuing the energy institution focused on campus community. and connection it brings to the cultivating critical thinking and classroom. However, when the decision-making skills. The Teaching Business with the pandemic disrupted traditional school's legacy, established in Numbers education models, he acknowledged the need for 1919, continues to resonate adaptation. Lincoln University through its selective academic With a deep background in swiftly transitioned to online programs icluding the doctoral mathematics and statistics, instruction, and despite his level one that prioritize Mikhail brings a strong initial reservations, Mikhail intellectual development over analytical lens to business recognized its necessity. The mere credentialing. education at Lincoln. He often university continues to offer quotes Lord Kelvin's insight, “If online learning options, reflecting a broader shift in Nurturing a Global Campus you can't define it, you can't higher education and an measure it; if you can't openness to evolving modes of Lincoln University's international measure it, you can't improve engagement. character, according to Mikhail, it,” as a guiding principle. Under is a natural extension of its his influence, Lincoln ensures Revitalizing Campus Life location in the diverse and that students don't just study globally connected San business theory—they learn to Historically, Lincoln University define key variables, measure Francisco Bay Area. From its primarily served international graduate students. The outcomes, and apply data- early years, the university combined effects of the driven approaches that reflect attracted students from pandemic and shifts in U.S. today's competitive and abroad, particularly from Asia. immigration policy significantly metrics-focused marketplace. By the time Mikhail joined, this impacted enrollment, global presence was already prompting a strategic pivot. The Art of Measuring What well-established. As someone Mikhail led the institution in Matters with international roots himself, expanding its outreach to domestic students, particularly he sees this multiculturalism undergraduates. This shift For Mikhail, the university's not as a strategy to change, brought a new energy to emphasis on “quantitative but as a strength to be campus life, further enhanced business” is more than a preserved and celebrated. by a growing focus on athletic tagline—it's a mindset. He programs. Sports now play an explains that success in A Culture of Respect at the impotant role in enriching business often depends on the Core www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 010 011

student experience and attracting a broader demographic to the university. However sports are not the goal but just a benewfit of study at Lincoln University. Strengthening Global Roots In response to ongoing international challenges—such as visa limitations and economic pressures—Mikhail is steering Lincoln University toward innovative global strategies. He emphasizes the importance of scaling up the university's online programs and forming international academic partnerships. These collaborations would allow Lincoln to deliver instruction that complements curricula abroad, effectively extending its global presence while adapting to the changing needs of students and partner institutions. A Place Where You're Seen When asked what sets Lincoln University apart, Mikhail describes it as a small institution with a close-knit, family-like atmosphere. Every student is known by name, respected, and supported throughout their journey. The experienced faculty embrace the opportunity to work in smaller classes, offering personalized attention and mentorship. For students who value active participation, visibility, and hands-on engagement, Lincoln offers a learning environment where they can truly thrive. As Mikhail often says, “Practice is the criterion of truth”—a belief reflected in the university's growing network of successful alumni, many of whom are showcased on its LinkedIn page. www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 012

The 10 Most Inspiring Education Leaders to Follow in 2025 time. While he initially balanced both, he eventually saw that clinging to safety meant sacrificing the odds of building something meaningful. So he chose the uncertain—but—purposeful path. Another major challenge came when Benedek Voovo had to pivot. Originally a B2C flashcard app with over 100,000 downloads and 20,000 monthly active users, it struggled with monetization and differentiation. Szilagyi After pitching to over 100 investors and facing a wave of rejections, Benedek kept going. Persistence paid Breaking the Mold of Traditional Education off when Voovo was accepted into Techstars, a turning point in their journey. During the program the team rebuilt the App into Voovo Classroom, or centuries, education has As the Co-founder of Voovo, he and COVID hit, Benedek left traditional a B2B platform for universities, worn the same uniform: rows the Voovo team is turning theory on its schooling behind to finish high school complete with licenses, analytics, and F of desks, chalk on boards, and head and designing a learning privately, diving deep into subjects like research-backed learning models. the assumption that learning happens experience that adapts, responds, and finance, philosophy, and the theory of only when someone teaches. Even as resonates. relativity on his own. the world digitized, education lagged in adapting tools, but not in mindset. A Childhood of Curiosity What keeps him passionate is the idea Students still cram for tests, forget that real learning happens when it what they learn, and rarely discover For Benedek, education was never aligns with curiosity. "School wasn't how their own minds actually work. confined to a classroom. Growing up in the only way to learn," he realized. But something's shifting. a small Hungarian town surrounded by "Maybe not even the best." That belief forests and lakes, he discovered the forms Voovo's mission: to make The old script of standardized content, world through exploration—building learning personalized, empowering, one-size-fits-all pacing, and theory furniture from wood, constructing a and fun. before experience is beginning to fray. staircase at 14, painting, fixing bikes, Learners crave relevance, autonomy, and learning extreme sports like Bold Reimagination of Education mountain biking, surfing and sailing. and systems that recognize their These weren't school assignments; they individuality. Educators are asking new One of Benedek's toughest decisions were life lessons. questions. What if knowledge could was walking away from a stable job at Morgan Stanley to pursue Voovo full- shape itself around the learner? What if Language soon became another memorization wasn't the enemy, but a adventure. He taught himself English misunderstood superpower? What if AI fluently within a year, then moved on didn't just support teachers, but to German, and later Mandarin while evolved into thinking partners for Benedek Szilagyi studying International Business at students? Co-Founder & COO, Corvinus University and Singapore Amid these questions, Benedek Voovo, Forbes 30 Management University. In the first Szilagyi is not just offering under 30 Hungary answers—he's building the future year of university, he was already around them. translating for companies. When www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 016 017

His key takeaway? "Rejection isn't At Voovo, this vision is already in where intelligent tools guide, assess, He also believes that memorization has For Benedek, that's where change reset. Growth isn't always about personal. A 'no' doesn't mean you motion. They personalize learning and adapt in real time. In that future, been unfairly criticized. It's not the act begins: helping students find their why, intensity—it's also about balance. For suck—it just means you asked the based on what students know and don't every learner will follow a unique, of memorizing that's flawed, but how and then showing them how to learn, Benedek, that means breathwork in the wrong question or it wasn't the right know, but the bigger hurdle is optimized path, and passive learning it's done. When tied to understanding not just what to memorize. mornings, quiet learning in the time." engagement. That's where behavioral will become a thing of the past. and reinforced with spaced repetition, evenings, and time in nature on the science meets design. By gamifying memory becomes a powerful thinking Mastering the Self weekends. "Watch a sunset. Hike. Vision for the AI-Empowered study habits, integrating rewards, and Rethinking How We Learn tool. "No search engine can replace Meditate. That's part of growth too." Student syncing with grading systems, that," Benedek explains. "You can only When asked about the most vital skills Benedek and his team make smart "One of the biggest misconceptions think with what's already in your for the future workforce, Benedek But perhaps the most powerful skill, he To Benedek, the future of education is learning methods irresistible. about education is the belief that theory memory." doesn't hesitate: ownership. "You need believes, is reframing failure. To personal, adaptive, and powered by AI. should come first", says Benedek. "It Another systemic flaw he highlights is to take full ownership of your Benedek, failure is not a setback—it's a He envisions a world where software What excites him most isn't just AI doesn't work that way Without real-life the one-size-fits-all approach in higher strengths, your weaknesses, what you forge for confidence and character. understands how each student chatbots—it's agents. Tools that don't experience, the brain has nothing to education. Most universities still teach can control, and what you can't." "You don't become confident by thinks—adapting explanations to their just answer questions, but act, search, attach the theory to—no mental weight as if every student processes winning," he says. "You become mental models, identifying knowledge and think on behalf of learners. It's the to hold the concept in place. That's information the same way. What's He breaks this down into four zones: confident by surviving." gaps, and tailoring paths accordingly. wave of B2A (Business-to-Agent), why cramming often leads to worse, they rarely uncover their forgetting." students' motivations, because most • Good at + controllable Personalization as a Pathway to students haven't discovered their own • Bad at + controllable Inclusion yet. • Good at + uncontrollable • Bad at + uncontrollable For Benedek, fostering inclusivity and diversity in education isn't about Fairness in education isn't Only the first two deserve your energy, treating every student the same—it's about treating everyone the Benedek says. The rest are distractions. about recognizing their differences and Equally important is the ability to meeting them where they are. He same—it's about designing believes the key lies in personalization. systems that flex around who "Every student has a different people actually are. baseline," he explains. "Some arrive with strong foundational skills, others need more time or support. But if we personalize the journey—adapting to their pace and knowledge gaps—success becomes possible for all.” That's exactly what Voovo is designed to do. The platform customizes the learning experience to fit each student's memory, timing, and curriculum. It doesn't expect uniformity; it respects individuality. For the Voovo team, that's true fairness in education—not equality, but equity through customization. The End of Gatekeeping In today's complex, hyperconnected Chris Gyurka Benedek Herman world, Benedek sees a major shift in Co-Founder, Co-Founder, the role of educators. They're no longer Voovo, Forbes 30 Voovo, Forbes 30 the gatekeepers of knowledge—they're facilitators of growth. With endless under 30 Hungary under 30 Hungary www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 018 019

diving into topics like Mandarin, Voovo isn't just a tool—it's a feedback In his ideal future, education is no content available online, students need on what truly matters to you. Learn behavioral shift—more than half the finance, philosophy, or AI. On system for deeper learning. The longer confined to rigid systems or context, not just information. They broadly, but specialize deeply. Find students began using spaced repetition weekends, he disconnects in platform tracks memory curves, single sources of truth. It's open, need mentors, not just lecturers. your niche, master it, and let your as a regular habit, even beyond the nature—hiking or sailing—to gain helping educators and students see not decentralized, and brain-aligned. passion guide the way. app. clarity and perspective. just what was learned, but what stuck. Learners will be empowered to absorb "Each learner has their own path, and Fast forward a year, and Voovo Benedek structures his development Beyond progress, Voovo focuses on knowledge through whichever medium that's a good thing," says Benedek. Benedek believes that true impact Classroom has grown to support through 6-month action plans and 2- retention and behavior shift—on suits them—AI tutors, peer Educators should guide students to doesn't come from chasing trends—it 10,000+ licensed students across year vision goals, giving himself both building sustainable learning habits. collaboration, books, videos—because discover how they learn best, not comes from caring deeply, taking bold multiple universities. But for Benedek, tactical direction and strategic education isn't one-size-fits-all. enforce a singular method. With steps, and building something it's not the scale that excites him perspective. He calls this "interval To Benedek, two core levers drive true "Education is a spectrum," Benedek platforms like Voovo handling meaningful that others can learn from. most—it's the identity shift. "We thinking"—the practice of zooming in learning transformation: incentive and says. "It's colorful." personalized content delivery, teachers helped students build a new learning and out on life like chapters in a book. behavior. Change the mindset, then can focus on building deeper The Impact of Voovo Classroom identity," he explains. The team didn't reinforce the habit. "If we can shift Through Voovo, Benedek and his team connections, offering mentorship, and just deliver a tool—they influenced He also leans heavily on mentorship, both," he says, "we've won." are working to make that future a supporting personal development. In When asked to name a project that's long-term habits that students carried learning from those who challenge his reality. By integrating research-backed Benedek's vision, the educator made a tangible difference in into other subjects and areas of life. perspective and push him beyond his Redesigning the Future of Learning learning science and personalized becomes an ally, not an authority education, Benedek points to the own experience. pathways into institutional systems, figure—an enabler of lifelong curiosity. pivotal moment when Voovo Crafting a Life of Purposeful As Benedek looks toward 2025 and they're helping students form habits transitioned from a flashcard app to Learning Building a Culture of Lasting beyond, his vision for education is that last beyond exams. The goal isn't Benedek's Manifesto for Makers Voovo Classroom. Their first pilot was Learning bold, human-centered, just academic improvement—it's a with Semmelweis University, Personal and professional growth is and deeply transformative. He cultural redefinition of what learning Perfection, in his view, is overrated. involving 200 students. The results deeply intentional for Benedek. His Benedek's definition of success in envisions a world where spaced can be. What matters more is curiosity. "Try, were striking: over 90% used Voovo day begins with 30 minutes of education breaks from tradition. It's not repetition and long-term learning aren't fail, learn. You can read every book, daily, and an equal percentage reported breathwork and meditation, without about grades, degrees, or even content fringe techniques—they're cultural "Smart learning shouldn't be a but it only matters if you've built that it helped them perform better on screens—just pure focus. Evenings are mastery. For him, success is habit norms. Just as cramming became a privilege," he emphasizes. "It should something too." His advice? Go all in exams. Even more impactful was the reserved for self-guided study, often change. "When students stop generational habit, he believes active be the default." And for Benedek, that cramming and start reviewing learning can become the new default. shift starts one student at a time. consistently—that's success," he says. "When active recall becomes normal, not forced, that's real." www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 020 021

Equity-Centered Leadership Moving from Intent to Impact www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 022 023

quity has become a cornerstone • Ongoing professional Policy as a Vehicle for Equity Community Collaboration and accused of being “too political” or “too Turning Intentions into a of modern educational Framework development focused on anti- Shared Power progressive.” Yet the work cannot stop Every policy reflects a set of values. E discourse, yet many institutions racist practices, trauma-informed when discomfort begins. still struggle to translate good Equity-centered leadership is not a approaches, and culturally relevant Equity-centered leaders examine Equity cannot be imposed from the existing policies through a justice- intentions into meaningful change. one-off initiative or a checklist. It must pedagogy. top—it must be built with the Sustainable equity leadership involves Statements about inclusion and fairness be embedded in a school's culture and • Curriculum review and reform focused lens. Are grading systems community. This means forming creating systems that endure beyond are common, but without deliberate penalizing students living in poverty? authentic partnerships with families one leader's tenure. This includes strategic priorities. Leaders should to ensure diverse perspectives and action, they remain symbolic. Equity- establish a concrete framework that content that reflect the students' Are discipline practices and community members. It also investing in leadership pipelines, centered leadership is about bridging guides their efforts, including: lived experiences. disproportionately affecting certain means ensuring that students, setting long-term goals, securing that gap—ensuring that every student, • Equitable hiring and retention groups? Are gifted programs equitably especially those from underrepresented funding, and embedding equity in regardless of background, has genuine efforts to diversify leadership and identifying talent across racial and groups, have a voice in shaping their every aspect of school planning—from • Equity audits to assess where opportunities to thrive. disparities exist across academics, teaching staff. socioeconomic lines? educational experiences. curriculum and instruction to family discipline, staffing, and resources. engagement and resource allocation. From Awareness to Action • Inclusive decision-making that When these strategies are consistently Rather than avoid controversy, these Schools that create space for equity amplifies the voices of students, applied, equity moves from a leaders embrace the challenge of advisory groups, student leadership Conclusion Understanding inequity is only the families, and educators, especially conversation to a commitment—and, policy reform. They advocate for councils, and parent-led initiatives are starting point. True leadership goes those from marginalized eventually, to a set of measurable inclusive policies and build more likely to sustain meaningful Equity-centered leadership is not about further, tackling the systems, policies, communities. outcomes. accountability systems that go beyond progress. Shared leadership fosters grand gestures or headline-worthy and practices that sustain disparities. test scores to reflect student well-being, trust and ensures that policies are not initiatives. It's about doing the quiet, This means looking beyond surface- engagement, and opportunity. only well-intentioned but also consistent work of transforming level indicators and exploring the root grounded in lived realities. systems to serve every causes of issues such as achievement student—especially those who have gaps, unequal discipline, and limited Redefining Success been historically overlooked. access to enrichment programs. Traditional metrics such as Leaders must commit to more than just Equity-centered leaders view data as standardized test scores and graduation statements. They must build structures more than performance metrics—they rates offer only a partial view of that support all learners, cultivate a see it as a tool for uncovering patterns student success. Equity-centered culture of reflection and growth, and of exclusion. They ask critical leaders broaden these definitions to collaborate with communities to questions: Who is benefitting from our include: reimagine what education can be. The current systems? Who is being left transition from intent to impact does behind? How can we remove the • Sense of belonging and safety not happen overnight, but with clarity, barriers we've inherited or, in some • Access to advanced and elective commitment, and courage, it becomes cases, unknowingly maintained? courses a reality. • Culturally affirming classroom The Power of Self-Awareness practices The call for equity in education is • Diversity among staff and clear. The question now is not whether Leading with equity begins with leadership we believe in it—but whether we're personal reflection. Educators and • Reduction in suspension and ready to lead for it. administrators must examine their own expulsion disparities biases, privileges, and assumptions. Self-awareness builds the foundation By changing what is measured, leaders for culturally responsive leadership, also change what is valued. They allowing decision-makers to demonstrate that the goal of education acknowledge the influence of their is not only academic achievement, but identities and experiences on their also inclusion, dignity, and growth for professional choices. all learners. This inner work is not optional—it's The Challenge of Sustainability essential. When leaders model vulnerability, they set the tone for a Equity work is demanding. It requires culture of openness and learning. This courage, patience, and resilience. paves the way for staff and students to Leaders may face pushback from engage in honest conversations about colleagues, community members, or race, identity, ability, and access. political stakeholders. They may be www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 024 025

Africa’s Most Influential EdTech Leaders Pioneering the Future of Learning James Bringing Real Learning to Remote Places mind is not a luxury. It's a doesn't. The contrast hit hardest one digital platforms and strategic birthright. The ability to read a day atop Botha's Hill, standing partnerships, this vision became not A sentence, question an idea, or between two schools: one brimming only achievable—but essential. solve for x shouldn't hinge on where a with resources, the other with child is born or how much their parents potential. From that vantage point, a In 2012, Advantage Learning earn. Education is the first tool we question formed—what if the best Technologies launched its first pilot AP hand someone to carve out their place teaching didn't stay locked in a room, Maths class at Maris Stella. From that in the world. It's what teaches us to but could stretch its arms across foundation, the company began to think critically, to dream responsibly, postcodes, provinces, and possibilities? grow—driven by a steadfast purpose: and to navigate both opportunity and That question became a mission. And to unlock potential through technology, adversity. When someone receives a That mission became Advantage equity, and educational excellence. quality education, it doesn't just change Learning Technologies their path—it expands their sense of Tech that Teaches, Data that what's possible. Denying that access is Learning Beyond the Classroom Understands not just unfair—it's a quiet act of theft, Walls stealing futures before they've even On that hill sits Kearsney College, one James attributes Advantage Learning begun. of South Africa's most prestigious Technologies' ability to stay ahead of private schools, boasting exceptional the curve to its relentless focus on educators and facilities. Just ten learners and unwavering commitment And yet, possibility remains unevenly minutes down the road, however, is to its mission. distributed. Across hills, cities, and Kwantebeni Comprehensive Secondary For James and his team, education isn't borders, the quality of education rises School—a no-fee public school in the simply about broadening access—it's and falls like a patchy radio Inanda Valley, where opportunity and about delivering meaningful outcomes. signal—loud and clear in some places, access are far more limited. The driving question behind every barely audible in others. A talented decision is clear: Are we genuinely child in a rural school might hunger to At Kearsney, a top-tier science teacher helping students learn better, deeper, learn but lack books, teachers, or a might instruct four classes of 30 and with more confidence? stable connection. A driven student in a learners a year, impacting just 120 township may have the spark, but no students annually. In contrast, To ensure this, the company employs system to fan it into flame. The tools of thousands of capable learners at rigorous feedback loops that draw progress—technology, expert schools like Kwantebeni go without insights from students, parents, instruction, tailored support—too often access to expert instruction or high- teachers, and partner schools. These follow power and privilege, leaving quality learning materials. This stark are complemented by robust data those on the margins to make do with imbalance left a lasting impression on analytics across the platform, enabling less. The problem isn't capacity. It's James. the team to identify pain points, refine reach. pedagogical approaches, and enhance It was then that a powerful idea took learner engagement. Every product is This gap became personal for James root: to collaborate with top educators anchored in Advantage Learning's core Lees while teaching mathematics to capture their expertise, amplify their instructional cycle: learn, practice, alongside his family. There was no assess, diagnose, and adapt. reach, and deliver world-class learning single lightning-bolt moment—just a experiences to students far beyond the slow, steady recognition that brilliance walls of traditional classrooms. With exists everywhere, but opportunity www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 026 027

A key differentiator for grounded, impact-first philosophy that often overlooked gap in STEM AdvantageLearn.com lies in its in- keeps AdvantageLearn.com both education: the widespread lack of house technology and content relevant and ahead. conceptual understanding in production capabilities. Unlike many mathematics and science. Far too many competitors who rely on external learners, he explains, are being left vendors, the team builds and maintains A Lesson in Belonging behind—not because they lack ability, its own learning environments and but because the current system doesn't resources. This autonomy allows them James shares that while Advantage give them the opportunity to truly to move quickly, tailor solutions to the Learn has seen countless stories of understand the material. South African context, and ensure success, one in particular has stayed consistently high standards—whether with him—a story that powerfully Traditional instruction frequently it's in video lessons, assessments, or affirmed the platform's mission. assumes comprehension rather than learner support. The story came from a student in a actively building it. As a result, rural area of the Eastern Cape, the first students often memorize procedures While the company stays closely in her family to apply to university. As without grasping the underlying attuned to emerging trends such as part of her application to a top concepts, leading to shaky foundations adaptive learning and artificial institution, she was required to take the and low confidence. The Neo Series intelligence, its approach to innovation National Benchmark Tests (NBTs). She aims to change this narrative. It begins remains deliberate and purposeful. discovered Advantage Learn's NBT with conceptual clarity and progresses James frames it with a simple but Preparation course through one of its toward competence, offering learners a powerful question: “Will this help a NGO distribution partners. structured, engaging, and supportive Grade 10 learner in Limpopo environment where real understanding understand quadratic functions Without access to the academic support can take root. better?” If the answer is yes, the idea often available in well-resourced is pursued. If not, it's set aside. schools, she independently navigated James highlights that Neo is also a the online course—watching video solution to the uneven quality of At the heart of it all is impact. For lessons, completing quizzes, and teaching across South Africa. By James Lees, every feature, course, and joining a live webinar where she asked collaborating with some of the enhancement is measured not by buzz questions and received real-time country's most exceptional educators, or trendiness, but by how effectively it guidance. Advantage Learn has captured best-in- supports a learner's growth. It's this Later, she reached out to share her class instruction and made it accessible success: not only had she passed the to any student with a smartphone or NBTs, but she had scored in the top access through a school partnership. percentiles nationally and secured a This initiative extends the impact of spot in a competitive science program. great teaching far beyond the What resonated most with James was limitations of a single classroom. her message: “You didn't just prepare me for the test—you made me feel like I Importantly, Neo doesn't replace belonged at university.” teachers—it empowers them. The series integrates seamlessly with For James, this moment captured the educators' workflows, offering support heart of Advantage Learn'smission. tools, analytics, and guidance that Equipping learners with knowledge, enhance its use in blended learning belief, and access isn't just about environments. academic performance—it's about unlocking their future and affirming James believes that, over time, the Neo their place in spaces they may have Series has the potential to transform once thought unreachable. STEM education in South Africa. Its goal isn't just to improve academic performance, but to cultivate a new The Blueprint for Better Learning in generation of problem-solvers, STEM innovators, and critical thinkers equipped to thrive in the modern According to James, the Neo Series world. was created to address a critical and www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 028 029

The Human Side of Digital done well, technology becomes an James highlighted that building momentum. For him, that's the true to cultivating a values-driven define the next decade: hyper- Transformation enabler—not the hero. Flowcode meant thinking like both a power of thoughtful, human-centred culture—one that isn't just aspirational, personalisation, human-AI but operational. The company's strategist and a product designer. It digital design. collaboration, and equitable access. James believes that the biggest As James puts it, true digital demanded precision in logic and cultural foundation is built around elegance in user experience. seven core values, captured in the misconception companies have about transformation is never about According to James, hyper- digital growth is thinking it begins with automating what you already do—it's What the project ultimately reinforced Balancing the Big Picture and the acronym HARMONY, reflecting the personalisation will revolutionize the for James was a profound insight: the Daily Grind belief that when these principles work way learning journeys are structured. software. In his experience leading about reimagining what's possible. Salt, he emphasizes that digital most valuable digital tools don't merely in harmony, everything else flows. With the growing power of data transformation doesn't start with automate—they elevate thinking. As CEO of both Advantage Learn and science and adaptive learning tools—it starts with clarity. Flowcode wasn't just a digitized Salt, James understands that balancing Human & Helpful: The team leads technologies, students will increasingly Rewriting the Rules of Real Strategy strategy framework; it became a long-term vision with daily execution with empathy and a commitment to engage with content that is tailored to Organizations often approach Salt vehicle for making strategic clarity is one of leadership's most demanding making a positive impact. their unique pace, knowledge gaps, accessible, repeatable, and scalable. Adventurous & Ambitious: They're interests, and preferred formats. This assuming they need a new system or One of the most challenging and challenges. For him, the key lies in app. However, James asserts that the rewarding projects James and his team For James, that's the essence of digital rhythm, prioritization, and trust. encouraged to take bold steps, embrace individualized approach has the at Salt undertook was the development transformation—empowering better change, and pursue transformative potential to dramatically improve both real work begins by asking foundational questions: What exactly of Flowcode, a strategic operating thinking and more effective action. James makes it a point to regularly step ideas. engagement and outcomes. are you trying to change? Who does it system designed to help businesses back and reflect—through strategic off- Respectful & Responsible: Personal impact? What does success truly look align their vision with execution. sites, journaling, or even quiet walks accountability and mutual respect are James also sees human-AI like? Flowcode enables organizations to Building Human-centred Digital that allow him to reconnect with the cornerstones of team dynamics. collaboration as a key frontier. He is Design move from high-level strategy to broader vision. These moments of Masters of Detail: Excellence is found clear in his belief that AI will not For James, digital growth is first and operational action plans with clarity reflection ensure that the day-to-day in the details, and the team takes pride replace educators—but rather empower foremost a mindset—not just a toolset. and coherence. For James, the most difficult aspect of activities remain aligned with the in getting them right. them. From AI tutors that provide real- It involves rethinking workflows, translating abstract business goals into overarching direction of both Obsessed with Performance: High time feedback to copilots that assist empowering teams, and designing with The core challenge lay in translating a effective digital solutions lies in organizations. standards and data-driven progress with diagnostics and content delivery, the end user in mind. When businesses powerful strategic methodology—one narrowing the focus. Business shape the team's pursuit of impact. these tools will allow teachers to focus leap straight into implementation that previously existed only in objectives are often broad, ambitious, Crucially, he credits the strength of his Net+: There's a shared mission to leave on what they do best: building without establishing this foundation, workshops and slide decks—into a and full of aspiration—which is leadership teams for making this people, systems, and the planet better relationships, inspiring curiosity, and they often find themselves digital platform that was intuitive, essential—but digital products require balance possible. At both Advantage than they were found. creating meaningful learning overwhelmed by complexity instead of scalable, and widely usable across precision and clarity to truly succeed. Learn and Salt, James has built teams Young at Heart: Curiosity, experiences. industries. It required the team to blend playfulness, and a learner's mindset are being liberated by efficiency. deeply aligned with their respective design simplicity with strategic depth, James believes that bridging vision missions and empowered them to lead. embraced at every level. Delegation, for him, isn't just a Most importantly, James emphasizes At Salt, the process always begins with ensuring that users could move step by with execution starts by asking hard, purpose and people. James and his step through defining their vision, grounding questions: What's the single management tactic—it's a strategic For James, these values are not just the need for equitable access. “None of aligning teams, setting measurable most valuable thing we could build words on a wall—they actively shape team co-design solutions that reflect move that allows him to focus more on this innovation matters,” he notes, “if the day-to-day realities of the business, outcomes, and conducting effective first? What real pain are we trying to the future than the immediate. hiring decisions, daily interactions, and it's only available to a few.” For digital performance reviews. relieve? Who will use this solution, and He also emphasizes the importance of how the team navigates challenges. align with leadership's aspirations, and learning to realize its full potential, it serve the end-user's needs. When that's what do they need to succeed? systems thinking. Both businesses They are the lens through which trust must be inclusive—designed with operate with mature, adaptive models is built and maintained. infrastructural challenges in mind and Equally important is communication. that enable smooth day-to-day delivered through strategic One of James' key strengths is serving operations while continuously learning To ensure these values remain partnerships that reach underserved as a bridge between the language of and improving. This operational embedded in the organizational fabric, communities. leadership and the language of foundation creates the space James James has championed rituals and In his view, the future of education is engineering. He translates bold ideas needs to focus on vision and strategy. systems that reinforce them—from not just about smarter tools—it's about into tangible user stories, workflows, onboarding processes to retrospective building a system where every learner and interface designs. This work may Ultimately, James believes leadership practices to recognition frameworks. has the opportunity to thrive. not always be glamorous, but he sees it isn't about doing everything—it's about Culture, in his view, isn't as the heart of impactful product consistently doing the right things. accidental—it's something you design, We stay ahead by development. That's how he maintains momentum nurture, and protect deliberately. without losing sight of the long game. being relentlessly He often describes his role as part learner-focused and Envisioning a More Equitable translator, part architect. When done well, James says, the result is more The Values System Behind Future of Learning mission-driven. than a functional product—it's Advantage Learn something that moves people. It fits When asked about the future of digital learning, James highlighted three seamlessly into their world, addresses At Advantage Learning Technologies, genuine challenges, and generates real James leads with a deep commitment transformative trends he believes will www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 030 031

truly educated A mind listens deeply, questions gently, and acts wisely.

Leading for Wellbeing The New Mandate for School Leaders School Leaders School Leaders or generations, school treated as secondary to academic learning to navigating increasing leadership has been defined by outcomes. In many schools, it is still behavioral and emotional needs among F academic performance, seen as the responsibility of a few students. Burnout and attrition have operational efficiency, and policy counselors or special programs, rather become pressing concerns in many compliance. While these aspects than as a shared institutional priority. education systems. remain important, the events of recent This fragmented approach is no longer years—from the global pandemic to sufficient. Leaders must embed growing concerns about youth mental wellbeing into the DNA of their Leaders must ensure that staff health—have pushed wellbeing to the schools. wellbeing is not left to individual forefront of educational priorities. The initiative or resilience. Instead, it should be supported through systemic message is clear: school leaders must Reframing the Role of the School now lead not just for achievement, but Leader actions such as: • for the holistic wellbeing of students, staff, and their communities. Leading for wellbeing requires a shift • Workload management: in mindset. Traditionally, school Reviewing expectations and This shift represents more than a leaders have been trained to focus on responsibilities to ensure staff are not overburdened. temporary response to crisis. It is a systems, strategy, and standards. While paradigm change. Wellbeing is no these remain essential, today's school • Professional development: Providing training in emotional longer a supplementary goal—it is a leaders must also act as emotional core mandate. School leaders are being architects and wellbeing advocates. regulation, trauma-informed called to build environments where practice, and self-care. emotional, mental, and social health This means understanding that • Open communication: Creating leadership is not just about managing safe spaces for feedback, dialogue, are integral to the learning experience. people—it's about caring for them. It and emotional expression. Why Wellbeing Matters in requires attunement to the emotional • Recognition and support: Education climate of the school, responsiveness Regularly acknowledging contributions and offering to the lived experiences of staff and The connection between wellbeing and students, and a commitment to practical support, such as mental learning is well-established. Students health resources and flexible cultivating a culture of compassion and who feel safe, supported, and psychological safety. working conditions where emotionally balanced are more likely possible. to engage, achieve, and thrive. Prioritizing Staff Wellbeing Likewise, teachers who feel valued and When educators feel emotionally and mentally well are better able to foster One of the most effective ways to professionally supported, their capacity positive classroom climates and sustain support student wellbeing is to start to support students increases high-quality instruction. with staff. Teachers and school staff exponentially. have faced unprecedented Despite this, wellbeing has often been stressors—from adapting to online www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 034 035

Designing Student-Centered communities: Partnering with Wellbeing Frameworks caregivers and local organizations to reinforce wellbeing strategies For students, wellbeing must be more beyond the school walls. than a lesson—it must be a lived • Embedding wellbeing into experience. School leaders can foster strategy: Making wellbeing a core this by creating frameworks that objective in the school's integrate wellbeing into everyday improvement plan, with practice. Key elements may include: measurable goals and regular reflection. • Social-emotional learning (SEL): Embedding SEL into the In doing so, leaders create a ripple curriculum so that students effect—shifting the whole culture of develop self-awareness, empathy, the school toward one that values and coping skills. people as much as performance. • Safe and inclusive environments: Addressing Challenges and Courage bullying, discrimination, and exclusion through clear policies Leading for wellbeing is not without its and a strong sense of community. challenges. It may require rethinking • Access to mental health support: entrenched routines, reallocating Ensuring timely access to school resources, or pushing back against counselors, psychologists, and narrow definitions of success. Leaders external services. may face resistance from those who • Student voice and agency: still view wellbeing as a “soft” or Involving students in decisions peripheral concern. that affect their lives, fostering a sense of autonomy and belonging. But leadership is ultimately about courage—courage to prioritize what Wellbeing initiatives must also be matters, to challenge harmful norms, responsive to diversity. Students' and to build systems that truly serve. experiences are shaped by their The well-being of students and cultural, economic, and social contexts. educators is not a distraction from the Effective leaders consider these mission of education—it is central to dimensions and tailor their approaches it. to ensure equity and inclusivity. Conclusion Building a Culture of Collective Care The well-being of our school communities is no longer a side issue. Sustainable wellbeing leadership is not It is the foundation on which effective the job of a single individual—it's a teaching and learning are built. As we collective responsibility. School move forward in an increasingly leaders can foster a culture of complex world, the leaders who will collective care by: make the most lasting impact are those who lead with empathy, who prioritize • Modeling healthy behaviors: human connection, and who recognize Demonstrating balance, boundary- that flourishing students begin with setting, and openness about mental flourishing schools. health. • Empowering middle leaders: Equipping department heads and team leaders to support the wellbeing of their teams. • Engaging families and www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 036 037

environment and details to life. That's how ProDio guarantees a unique experience for each learner, and that's Russell why learners love and remember their learning. Cullingworth This deep engagement activates critical areas of the brain that enhance longterm memory retention and comprehension. Transforming Professional Development Research shows that exercising the ™ brain's imaginative capacity also Through Innovative StoryStyle Audio Learning nurtures creativity and critical thinking. Moreover, learning involves more than just facts and figures; it also requires emotional engagement. efore Covid, the professional of the industry leaders driving this development industry was StoryStyle™ learning not only teaches transformation. His vision for more B heavily focused on traditional concepts but immerses learners in accessible and engaging professional learning methods, including in-person characters and real-life situations, learning solutions stems from his own workshops and video-based courses. sparking empathy and emotional frustrations with the limitations of Despite the explosion of online intelligence. The emotional connection traditional video-based online courses. learning tools and options, many still to the story improves memory His commitment to delivering high- fall short in providing engagement, retention and increases the likelihood quality audio learning solutions has led affordability, quality, convenience and of applying learned concepts in real- to the development of ProDio's unique flexibility required by busy life situations. approach, which continues to shape the professionals. future of professional education. His innovative mindset and dedication to This has created a growing demand for In addition, StoryStyle™ audio improving the learning experience for more effective and accessible learning learning is faster and less expensive to busy professionals have been solutions, highlighting the need to produce and update, and it is also the rethink how educational content is instrumental in the company's growth only truly mobile way to learn. designed, delivered, and experienced in and success. today's fast-paced world. Revolutionizing Professional Immersive Learning Through Development with Audio Learning ProDio Audio Learning is an industry Engaging Audio Experiences innovator that is actively addressing Russell is the CEO of ProDio Audio this demand. ProDio is reshaping the ProDio's StoryStyle™ audio learning Learning Inc. Along with his wife and professional development experience incorporates nine forms of media, co-founder Christine Cullingworth, by integrating storytelling, acted including narration, acted scenarios, who serves as Head of Production, scenarios, and audio media into a stories, analogies, interviews, and other they established ProDio with the goal unique format. Their innovative media experiences. These elements are of making professional development approach, known as StoryStyle™, designed to stimulate the imagination more engaging, flexible, and combines multiple forms of media to and help learners clearly visualize the accessible. The company stimulate the imagination and enhance successful application of their learning. utilizes storytelling, acted the learning process. This method not This approach aids in making abstract scenarios, interviews, and only offers a more engaging and or intricate concepts more relatable and audio media to enhance the flexible mobile learning alternative to memorable. learning experience. The traditional learning but also helps name ProDio is a blend of learners better retain and apply new As listeners engage with the content, "professional development" information. With a focus on delivering their brains create mental images, and "audio," and it also high-quality, effective courses, ProDio much like watching a movie in their derives from the Latin has carved out a distinct place in the minds. By eliminating distracting word meaning "advance" professional development sector. visual data, learners create their own or "move forward," aligning perfectly imagery, and become co-creators of the with the concept of Russell Cullingworth, the CoFounder content, actively using their and CEO of ProDio, is one imagination to bring characters, www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 038 039

progressive learning. person programs to online formats, further bolstered the company's directly competing with ProDio's credibility. The idea for ProDio originated in 2016 offerings, and some cancelled their when Russell owned a company Effective and Engaging Audio agreements. Acquiring new clients focused on teaching Emotional Learning Strategies became increasingly difficult, and the Intelligence through in-person company faced financial strain. Despite ProDio's strategies for engagement and workshops. Seeking to increase leads, these challenges, ProDio persevered by satisfaction are straightforward, cost- he enrolled in an online marketing cutting expenses and avoiding financial effective, and faster to produce in course. However, he soon became risks. audio format than in video. The frustrated with the experience, finding company transforms traditional it monotonous and uninspiring. He was In 2024, ProDio began exploring the lecture-style scripts from clients into stuck at his computer during the science behind listening and StoryStyle™ content. summer, unable to work outside due to imagination, uncovering the significant poor screen visibility. At the time, benefits these practices offer for The approach incorporates excellent Russell was considering creating learning and brain health. storytelling and acted scenarios, with online courses on Emotional scripts that are well-written and Building Credibility in Professional Intelligence for his own business but performed by professional voice Learning was dissatisfied with the typical online actors. The content is produced with video-based learning approach. This learning is attention to detail, using sound design, After seven years, ProDio continues to not only flexible, address a significant challenge: music, and sound effects. Russell One evening, while Russell and convincing the adult learning personally oversees the scripting and Christine were preparing dinner, truly mobile, and community of the value and content, while Christine manages the Russell shared his thoughts: "You aligned with effectiveness of the importance and voice actors, audio production, and know, most of this course I could just validity of listening and imagination in sound design. listen to. I don't need to sit here staring desired learning professional development. The at this guy talking to me, showing outcomes, but it ProDio focuses on creating engaging, traditional education model, which boring slides. What if we could just varied, and enjoyable content. This focuses on "sitting still and watching make audio courses so people could also offers includes short-form interviews with the teacher," has persisted into adult listen while they're in the car, on the global experts, street interviews, and and professional learning, both in- developmental train, or even while working out? I media clips that reflect real-world person and online. pictured the millions of professionals benefits for the learning outcomes and current news or sitting in traffic, tired of listening to the During COVID-19, the learning social media topics. radio and not gaining much from learner's brain. population began to recognize that To support learning, ProDio provides podcasts." This sparked the realization learning can occur even while high-quality handouts, including that learning need not be confined to a engaging in other tasks, such as written course transcripts, key points, screen—it could be integrated into attending sessions with cameras off, templates, worksheets, and people's lives more seamlessly. That driving, or doing household chores. downloadable PowerPoint slides. moment marked the inception of Russell calls this "the age of distracted ProDio. The courses are structured for micro- learning.” learning, with bite-sized modules of The company saw strong early growth, ProDio's success in building trust and 10-15 minutes in length. These forging partnerships with numerous credibility includes an agreement with modules autoplay, allowing learners to professional associations that offered LinkedIn Learning to host five of its continue listening while driving or ProDio's courses to their members for courses, which now have over 60,000 exercising and easily resume or pause Continuing Professional Development learners. Additionally, ProDio has the content at any time. (CPD) or Continuing Professional strengthened its partnerships with Education (CPE). These partnerships Ensuring Compliance with professional associations through helped fuel ProDio's expansion. CPD/CPE Accreditation Standards revenue-sharing relationships. The However, in 2021, the company began creation of a free ethics course in feeling the effects of the COVID-19 Meeting CPD/CPE accreditation collaboration with the International pandemic on the learning industry. standards primarily involves having Federation of Accountants, the global Between 2021 and 2023, many clearly defined learning outcomes and governing body for accountants, associations transitioned their in- www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 040 041

ensuring these are presented, repeated, and completed it, the module was checked mobile, and aligned with desired Overcoming Industry Challenges tested throughout the learning materials. and moved onto the next. 2) The time learning outcomes, but it also offers and Defining a Unique Approach ProDio has successfully met the strictest the information on the paper material developmental benefits for the learner's accreditation standards in Canada, the was displayed on the material. 3) brain. ProDio is the only company that Russell's first piece of advice is light- USA, the UK, and South Africa. In the There were takeaways, quotes, wisdom can make this claim with its hearted but carries weight: "Don't even USA, ProDio was previously accredited by points, and other people involved. StoryStyle™ audio learning. think about competing with ProDio." the NASBA Registry of CPE Providers for Thank you very much.” While joking, he acknowledges that the CPAs, one of the toughest standards to Partnering with Experts for company has been in the industry for achieve. However, the company decided A further comment read, "I was Accurate Content nearly eight years, making it difficult not to maintain this accreditation due to shocked by how much new information for others to catch up. associated costs. I got out of the time. It was very The team at ProDio does not claim educative and well thought out with expertise in every topic required by He also points out that the learning ProDio follows a clearly defined process to properly laid out references. Such a clients. Instead, they collaborate with industry is generally resistant to ensure that learning outcomes are wonderful course!” subject matter experts to assist with change. The current trend in the consistently represented in the content, storytelling and to ensure that the industry is the use of AI avatar stories, scenarios, and interviews, and are Another participant noted, "Course stories, scenarios, and analogies used teachers, which simply deliver the repeated multiple times. Additionally, there material was interesting and are accurate and reflective of the target traditional "sit and watch the teacher" is a structured approach to link learning informative. I would like to hear even audience's experiences or potential model through an avatar. Russell finds outcomes to quiz questions and handout more real-life scenarios because they future needs and situations. ProDio this approach regressive and believes packages. Each course also includes an help to reinforce concepts. This course often involves multiple experts in each that the industry is investing heavily in optional user evaluation that meets the will help me and my organization.” course to provide a wide range of it, with many entrepreneurs profiting requirements set by accreditation bodies. opinions and perspectives. from the trend. Lastly, a user remarked, "This is a The Benefits of Truly Mobile Learning great course. It covers a broad variety Prioritizing Effective and Simple Lastly, Russell advises innovators to through Audio Courses of topics, all relevant to current Learning Solutions understand the true meaning of an business environments. It also has "out-of-the-box" idea. He learned this Professionals appreciate the convenience of many real-world examples and ProDio's approach is driven by the lesson when attempting to connect what is referred to as #trulymobile learning. scenarios and provides terrific specific needs and requests of its with clients, as they often did not have Listening to audio is the only truly mobile guidance on how to approach these clients, with a primary focus on a category for StoryStyle™ audio way to learn, as it allows individuals to situations. To top it off, there are creating custom learning and learning. ProDio has been categorized engage with content while remaining interviews with individuals in business onboarding content for companies and under "online learning," "podcasts," hands-free and without needing to look at a – I found these particularly insightful. professional associations. The and even "audio webinars" (recorded screen. Unlike visual-based learning, where Thank you for putting this company prioritizes delivering an live webinars). Russell compares this safety can be compromised when walking course/material together so well.” effective learning experience for the to taking a Michelin-star meal and across a room, StoryStyle™ audio provides learner. ProDio has observed that much classifying it as "restaurant food." This the flexibility to listen even with a locked Gaining a Competitive Edge with money is often spent on technology misclassification made it difficult to phone, whether it's in a purse or pocket. Engaging Learning Solutions features and gamification, which clearly define ProDio's branding and professionals typically find distracting. value proposition, and he notes that User feedback highlights the value of this Maintaining a competitive edge in the Instead of relying on badges or stars to establishing a new category in the approach. One participant stated, "This was learning market is difficult, especially motivate course completion, the focus industry requires significant effort. honestly the best PD course I've taken with remains on providing engaging, as large companies continue to capture CPA. The format was excellent – it was so relevant, and high-quality content. large portions of the market. ProDio's ProDio provides detailed information nice to be able to listen to the course while about StoryStyle™ learning on their competitive advantage lies in two key cooking dinner or driving in the car, and While there are plans to integrate new webpage, which includes sound areas: the app made it all seamless. Also, the technologies, these will be introduced samples. presenters were fantastic – kept it really gradually and with careful 1) Focusing on a niche of clients who interesting, and I really enjoyed the require effective, high-quality learning consideration, as such features often Additionally, research articles related content.” for their busy professionals, and 2) lead to additional problems and to imaginative learning. leveraging seven years of experience in frustrations for learners. The goal is to Another user shared, "This may well have transforming typically dull content, maintain simplicity in the learning been the best course of any kind that I have such as compliance, ethics, and safety, experience. taken because: 1) Everything flowed: click into engaging and memorable learning. on Chap 1, module 1, and when I This learning is not only flexible, truly www.educationexcellencemagazine.com www.educationexcellencemagazine.com 042 043

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The 10 Most Inspiring Education Leaders to Follow in 2025

The 10 Most Inspiring Education Leaders to Follow in 2025

Presentation Transcript

FOLLOW THE LEADERS

The 10 Most Inspiring CEOs to Watch

The 10 Most Inspiring Educational Leaders in Australia.2020

The 10 Most Inspiring Businesswomen to Watch in 2020

Top 10 Pioneering Business Leaders to Follow in 2023

The 10 Most Influential Leaders to Follow in 2022

Most Inspiring Business Leaders To Follow In 2023

World’s 10 Most Admired Women Leaders in Business to Follow, 2023

Top 10 Inspiring Women Leaders to Follow in April 2023

The 10 Most Influential HR Leaders To Follow, 2023

The 10 Most Inspiring Women Leaders in Business, 2023

The Most Influential Leaders In Tech To Follow,2024

The 10 Most Dynamic Business Leaders to Follow in 2024

Top 10 OUTstanding LGBTQIA Leaders to Follow