In this episode of Learning Can’t Wait, host Hayley Spira-Bauer sits down with Bryan Hassel and Kendall King of Public Impact to explore how innovative staffing models—like the Opportunity Culture initiative—are transforming schools across the country. They dive into the power of multi-classroom leadership, sustainable funding strategies for foundations and policymakers, and how digital learning can expand the reach of excellent teachers. With compelling research results and a bold vision for scale, Bryan and Kendall share how Public Impact is working to ensure every student has access to high-quality teaching—every year, in every classroom. Whether you're a teacher, policymaker, funder, or advocate, this episode will leave you inspired by what’s possible when we reimagine how schools are staffed and supported.

Join Hayley Spira-Bauer, host of the Learning Can’t Wait podcast, as she sits down with Scott Anderberg, Chief Operating Officer at Moodle, to discuss the future of learning management systems. Scott shares how Moodle is integrating AI while staying true to its open-source philosophy and commitment to equity. From AI-powered tools to small but impactful educator-driven features, Moodle continues to evolve while ensuring accessibility for learners worldwide.
This conversation highlights the power of user-driven innovation in education and the importance of curiosity in teaching and learning. Tune in for an engaging discussion on technology, accessibility, and the future of education with one of the leaders shaping the field.

In this episode of Learning Can’t Wait, we sit down with Mary Jo Fairhead, Founder and Director of Onward Learning, to explore the unique strengths of rural education and the importance of redefining student success. Mary Jo shares how small, tight-knit communities foster deep collaboration and resourcefulness, creating learning environments where students can thrive at their own pace. She challenges the overreliance on standardized testing, offering real-world examples of students excelling when given the freedom to progress based on their individual needs rather than rigid benchmarks.
Host Hayley Spira-Bauer and Mary Jo discuss the broader implications of rethinking traditional educational norms, from the role of homework to the fear-based mindset that often dictates student progress. With a refreshing perspective on what truly matters in learning, Mary Jo encourages educators to be courageous in advocating for student-centered approaches. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that challenges assumptions and highlights the power of community-driven education.

In this impactful episode of The Learning Can’t Wait Podcast, host Hayley Spira-Bauer speaks with education thought leader Jeff Livingston about the urgent challenges shaping the future of learning. From the looming threat to the E-Rate program, which ensures broadband access for schools and libraries, to the broader funding uncertainties that could reshape K-12 education, Jeff offers a passionate and thought-provoking perspective on what’s at stake.
Drawing from his personal experience growing up in rural South Carolina, Jeff highlights how digital equity, school funding structures, and policy decisions impact students—particularly those in underserved communities. He and Hayley also explore the resilience of rural America, the importance of advocacy, and the critical need for educators, parents, and policymakers to take action before it's too late.
As education faces a potential crisis of access and stability, this conversation serves as a call to action for anyone invested in the future of our schools.

What happens if schools lose access to critical funding for internet and network infrastructure? In this timely episode of Learning Can’t Wait, host Hayley Spira-Bauer is joined by Jodie Buenning, a communications and policy expert, to break down what the E-Rate program is, why it’s vital to public education, and what’s at stake as a Supreme Court case looms that could reshape how E-Rate funds are used.
Jodie shares a historical look at how E-Rate came to be and how it has supported everything from secure student access to online learning to equitable connectivity in rural schools. She emphasizes the importance of advocacy—encouraging superintendents, principals, and educators to raise their voices, share success stories, and reach out to local legislators.
Jodie also offers advice for rural school leaders facing uncertainty: build strong community partnerships, stay connected with broadband providers, and prepare local contingency plans. With deep insight and a call to action, this episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of school connectivity and digital equity.
Resources & Mentions:
Education Week article: Schools Fear Funding Loss as Supreme Court Weighs E-Rate Case (March 20, 2025)
CoSN, SETDA, ASCD: Education advocacy groups supporting E-Rate

Superintendent PJ Caposey returns to The Learning Can't Wait podcast for a fast-paced, eye-opening mini series episode about the complex—and often misunderstood—realities of school funding. In this episode, PJ and host Hayley Spira-Bauer dive into how districts are creatively generating revenue, the lasting impacts (and limitations) of ESSER spending, and what really delivered ROI during the pandemic.
PJ also sounds the alarm on a looming superintendent shortage and breaks down why top district leaders may see a surge in salaries—even as schools face painful budget cuts. From rural education challenges to the political and financial pressures shaping public schools today, this episode is packed with insight, candor, and practical wisdom from a nationally recognized education leader.

In this funding mini series episode of Learning Can’t Wait, Hayley Spira-Bauer sits down with Rita Ferrandino—founder of Arc Capital Development, education investor, and innovation consultant at the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education. Rita shares her insights on how research, funding, and innovation intersect in today’s EdTech landscape. From navigating federal grants to building meaningful university partnerships, she offers a behind-the-scenes look at how high-growth edtech companies can scale responsibly and effectively—while keeping student outcomes front and center.
Rita also opens up about the power of coalitions, especially among women in edtech and investing. She discusses her role in founding DOLS (Dirty Old Ladies of Software), supporting international education networks, and the importance of mentorship—for both new educators and aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you’re launching a startup, teaching in the classroom, or just passionate about the future of learning, this conversation is packed with wisdom, warmth, and actionable advice.

In this episode of Learning Can’t Wait, host Hayley Spira-Bauer sits down with Peter Relan, chairman of MathGPT, to explore how AI-powered tools are transforming math education. Peter discusses how AI can alleviate the burden on educators by automating course management, generating assignments and quizzes, and providing Socratic-style tutoring that encourages critical thinking—without giving away answers.
They also dive into the broader impact of AI in the classroom, including its role in addressing equity gaps in community college math courses, improving student engagement, and supporting instructors with trustworthy, guardrail-protected AI. Peter shares insights on the importance of making math relevant to students’ lives and previews an upcoming Stanford research study on MathGPT’s outcomes.
Tune in to hear how AI is shaping the future of math education, why trust and efficacy matter, and how teachers can leverage technology to improve student success. Plus, a promise—Peter will be back to share real-world data on MathGPT’s effectiveness!