Best IDOC Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 234 - What happens when a student account is compromised? 40:54

Play Pause

7m ago40:54

40:54

Join us for Episode 234 of the K-12 Tech Talk Podcast as we dive into the latest in educational technology and policy. This episode covers significant developments including the confirmed merger of Chrome and Android, the FCC's proposed changes to the E-rate program affecting school bus Wi-Fi and hotspots, and a critical discussion on controlling s…

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What Top ODs Revealed About Contact Lens Success—and What’s Holding Them Back 33:44

3h ago33:44

33:44

In this episode, you’ll hear what happens when a group of forward-thinking ODs come together, not just to share clinical tips, but to challenge the way we think about contact lenses. We didn’t sit around talking about products. We dug into something bigger—the opportunities hiding in plain sight. The moments when patients walk out the door because …

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321. Blain Wood- National Reentry Advocate 27:00

3d ago27:00

27:00

Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ https://www.imsihopecommunityphaseii.com/ IMSI HO…

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Episode 233 - Teenagers Using AI Companions? 1:07:59

5d ago1:07:59

1:07:59

Episode 233 discusses the newest tensions between AI and schools: teenagers using AI companions and alarming incidents tied to platforms like Character.ai that have drawn federal attention. Josh talks about his student MFA pilot using Clever, how onboarding works (and how MFA can be network-aware to reduce classroom friction), and using student-led…

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Innovation, AI, and the Patient Experience: A Conversation with Newton’s CEO 21:06

7d ago21:06

21:06

In this episode, you’ll discover what reinvention really looks like when innovation isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a mindset. Davis Corley, CEO of Newton (formerly Neurolens), didn’t just announce a rebrand. He revealed a bold new vision for the future of eyecare—one that challenges us to rethink how we lead, how we innovate, and how we meet the expect…

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320. Doug Austin and Mark Geraty- Holy Family House 27:00

11d ago27:00

27:00

Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ https://www.imsihopecommunityphaseii.com/ IMSI HO…

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Episode 232 - Killer Drones, Google Outages & AI Whack‑A‑Mole 49:00

12d ago49:00

49:00

On Episode 222, we unpack a busy week in school tech: a nationwide Google outage that disrupted Chromebook logins, new Sophos data showing improving ransomware recovery and falling ransom payments, and CETA’s annual report putting AI at the top of state priorities. The conversation dives into the controversial campus drone pilot approved in Florida…

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The Myopia Growth Engine: How Two ODs Turned a Niche into a Practice Driver 35:43

14d ago35:43

35:43

In this episode, you step into the exam room with two ODs who turned “maybe someday” into a thriving myopia management program—without waiting to have it all figured out. Dr. Alecia Barnes and Dr. Jenn Lyerly share how they moved from dabbling to discipline: simple scripts that spark parent buy-in, a clean consult flow that saves time, pricing buil…

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319. Douglas Smith- Path of rocks in Austin Texas 26:30

17d ago26:30

26:30

Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ https://www.imsihopecommunityphaseii.com/ IMSI HO…

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Episode 231 - Our Top 5 Trending Back-to-School Topics 56:03

19d ago56:03

56:03

On this episode, Josh, Chris, and Mark unpack their top five back-to-school trends shaping K-12 technology in 2025. Topics include shifting budgets and funding pressures, rising costs for materials and software, widespread school cell phone policies and bell-to-bell enforcement, the rapid expansion of AI tools in classrooms (including Notebook LM a…

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Reimagining Eyecare: The Impact of AI on Optometry’s Next Decade 52:11

21d ago52:11

52:11

In this episode, you step into a future that’s already knocking on your door—and learn how to meet it with confidence. Dr. Scot Morris doesn’t talk about artificial intelligence; he tells the story of a profession on the edge of reinvention. If you’ve ever felt buried by admin, boxed in by EHRs, or frustrated by 3rd-party red tape, this conversatio…

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318. Beth Bishop Development Director St. Vincent de Paul SW Idaho 26:00

24d ago26:00

26:00

Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ https://www.imsihopecommunityphaseii.com/ IMSI HO…

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Episode 230 - Office 365 or Google Workspace or BOTH? 44:49

25d ago44:49

44:49

On this episode, the guys are back together with Mark sharing a story about a tech emergency during his recent Alaskan cruise vacation. This episode covers current events, including a potential cut in federal Title 1 funding and the elimination of all Title 2, 3, and 4 funding in a proposed House of Representatives budget. Chris, Josh, and Mark cel…

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From Amazon to Eye Exams: Preparing Your Practice for Tomorrow’s Patients 27:02

29d ago27:02

27:02

In this episode, you’ll step into the shoes of tomorrow’s patient—and see how their expectations are already reshaping the way you need to run your practice today. The healthcare world isn’t changing slowly anymore. It’s being redefined by the same forces that transformed shopping, travel, and entertainment. Amazon taught us convenience. Netflix ta…

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317. Randi Radosevich- St Vincent de Paul Des Moines Iowa 26:45

1M ago26:45

26:45

Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ https://www.imsihopecommunityphaseii.com/ IMSI HO…

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Episode 229 - MagicSchool, Esports, and Update Issues 59:26

1M ago59:26

59:26

Josh and Chris recap the hectic second week of school, covering Chromebook rollouts, Clever headaches, cell‑phone bans, and a recent ChromeOS update rollback. They also ask the question "Is Esports a sport?" The episode highlight? A candid interview with Adeel Khan, founder and CEO of MagicSchool. Adeel shares MagicSchool's origin story, how MagicS…

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Proven Strategies from the Top 5 Downloaded Episodes 52:50

1M ago52:50

52:50

To celebrate 100 episodes, we're bringing you the best insights from our top 5 most downloaded shows. From team building and leadership to optical strategy and staff training, this episode pulls the key takeaways that have helped practices scale fast and smart. You'll hear highlights from: Sharon Carter on leadership development and executing what …

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316. Eddie B- Conviction for Christ Ministries- New Mexico 27:00

1M ago27:00

27:00

Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ https://www.imsihopecommunityphaseii.com/ IMSI HO…

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Episode 228 - The First Week Back 47:12

1M ago47:12

47:12

Josh and Chris talk about the first week back to school - Smartboard repairs, missing classroom printers, tech tickets, moving equipment, and more. They also share anecdotes about Mark’s Alaska trip (send pics for prizes). They also discuss vendor DPAs, the fallout from bell‑to‑bell cell phone bans, and creative MFA options. -------------------- Li…

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The Secret to Sales—Just Shut Up! 27:33

1M ago27:33

27:33

In this episode, you’ll discover why the most powerful thing you can say to a patient might be nothing at all. It started with one piece of advice from a seasoned VP of sales: “Ask a question, and then just shut up.” Simple, but transformational. We explore how this counterintuitive approach can change everything—from the way patients perceive your…

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315. Doug Starr-Mentor/sponsor IDOC Case Manager (retired) 27:00

2M ago27:00

27:00

Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ https://www.imsihopecommunityphaseii.com/ IMSI HO…

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Episode 227 - State‑Mandated AI, Back‑to‑School Mayhem & the Birth of "Grumpy Josh" 46:23

2M ago46:23

46:23

Josh, Chris and Mark dive into the chaos of the back‑to‑school rush and the latest K‑12 tech headlines. Topics include Ohio’s new requirement that districts adopt AI policies, the pros and cons of writing evergreen AI regulations, and how that mandate could interact with existing tech agreements. The trio also covers recent news like ChatGPT‑5’s la…

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Small Changes, Big Growth: How Dr. Smith Built a Thriving Practice One Step at a Time 39:16

2M ago39:16

39:16

In this episode, you’ll discover how small, steady changes can quietly transform a practice—and your future. Dr. Mariah Smith didn’t make one big leap. Over the past decade, she built a thriving, six-times-more-profitable practice by making intentional improvements—one at a time. No shortcuts. No flash. Just smart systems, better leadership, and th…

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Episode 226 - Back to School with Gemini... or Not? 47:18

2M ago47:18

47:18

In this episode, we talk about AI (and other things)! We discuss the growing concerns surrounding school surveillance tools, examining case studies where innocent student jokes have led to harsh outcomes due to automated threat detection. Shifting gears, we look at the availability of AI tools like Gemini Pro and ChatGPT for college students, inclu…

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Pricing Mistakes That Sink Your Optical Profit—and How to Fix Them 43:03

2M ago43:03

43:03

You didn’t become an optometrist to feel like a discount retailer. But somewhere along the way, insurance plans took over, patients started price-shopping, and the optical—once the heart of your business—started to feel like a race to the bottom. In this conversation, we step back and ask: What if the problem isn’t the patients? What if it’s how we…

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From Gen A to Gen B(oomers): Customizing Eye Care by Generation 40:19

2M ago40:19

40:19

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo welcomes Dr. Juawana Hall to discuss the importance of understanding generational differences in patient care. They explore how different generations, from Boomers to Gen Z, have distinct expectations and behaviors regarding eye care. Dr. Hall shares her journey and the methods she uses to tailor communication and r…

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314. Richard Englehart- Stand with Conviction 26:30

2M ago26:30

26:30

Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ https://www.imsihopecommunityphaseii.com/ IMSI HO…

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Episode 225 - How Are Districts Handling State Cell Phone Bans? 43:21

2M ago43:21

43:21

This week, we're covering some hot topics making headlines, including the recent unfreezing of billions in education funds, new disability policies being considered in Louisiana that involve cameras in classrooms, and the rise of AI-powered instruction in a Texas private school. Beyond the news, our main topic is a deep dive into how states and sch…

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Episode 224 - Vendor Support in Small Districts 39:09

2M ago39:09

39:09

Join us this week as we welcome our new AI co-host and delve into the unique challenges and opportunities of vendor support in small districts. From the highlights of the MidwestTechTalk conference to the intricacies of tech support for small schools, we cover it all. Hear about the latest AI updates in education with Canvas integrating ChatGPT and…

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Beyond the Photo: How Wide Field Retinal Imaging Drives Patient Compliance & Profit 39:52

2M ago39:52

39:52

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo chats with Dr. James Wood to discuss the underutilized potential of retinal imaging in eye care practices. They explore how retinal imaging, particularly widefield and ultra-widefield imaging, can significantly enhance patient education, boost compliance, and improve financial outcomes for practices. Dr. Wood shares…

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Episode 223 - Everything You Need To Know About Google's Summer Updates! 58:41

2M ago58:41

58:41

Josh, Chris, and Mark dive deep into the latest product and licensing changes announced by Google this summer. The trio discusses how Google's updates could impact schools, highlighting essential decisions IT Directors and educators need to make regarding AI tools like Gemini and NotebookLM. Special emphasis is placed on Google's move to enhance th…

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Episode 222 - Live from the GAMEIS Conference! 57:30

3M ago57:30

57:30

Join us for an exciting episode recorded live at the GAMEIS Conference in beautiful Savannah, Georgia. Our hosts dive into the world of education technology and cybersecurity with insights from key players in the field. Listeners will hear from prominent figures in the Georgia ed-tech scene, including Rusty Boone from McIntosh County, who shares in…

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Where's the Money? Fixing the Cracks in Your Billing 37:06

3M ago37:06

37:06

In this episode of Eye Own a Business, Dr. Steve Vargo sits down with Cindy Braden, Vice President of Sales at OneSpot, to uncover the hidden breakdowns in the billing process that are costing eye care practices serious money. From aging A/R to the risks of relying on a single biller, Cindy shares eye-opening insights on how to protect your revenue…

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313. Jason Bright-Advocate/Parole District 2- Returning Citizen 27:30

3M ago27:30

27:30

Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ https://www.imsihopecommunityphaseii.com/ IMSI HO…

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Episode 221 - Supreme Court Decisions and Google Updates 34:31

3M ago34:31

34:31

Join Josh and Mark on the K-12 Tech Talk Podcast as they tackle pressing issues impacting the education sector. This week, they delve into the Supreme Court's decision to preserve E-Rate funding, celebrating a 6-3 vote victory that aligns with predictions. Listen in as they break down the implications of dissenting voices seeking stricter non-deleg…

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The Most Valuable Day of the Year: How Annual Retreats Are Transforming Practice Culture 38:16

3M ago38:16

38:16

In this episode, Dr. Vargo sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Roush, a practice owner from Northeast Indiana, to discuss the transformative impact of annual retreats on leadership, teamwork, and business growth. Dr. Roche explains the logistics, planning, and execution of successful annual retreats, sharing how they have become her staff's favorite day o…

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312. Jessica Zarling-Author-Christian-Advocate 26:30

3M ago26:30

26:30

https://jlusa.org/leader/jessica-zarling/ Jessica Zarling Jessica Zarling is founding “The Great I Am” Foundation in Milwaukee where she provides Biblical guidance, support, and knowledge in how to heal in spite of the many broken systems, oppressed people encounter. She volunteers with the youth, teaching them their lives have purpose in Christ. S…

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Episode 220 - ISTE Preview and Summer Staff Transitions 39:48

3M ago39:48

39:48

Welcome to this week's episode with Chris and Mark (Josh is on vacation!). We give a sneak peek of ISTE and its EdTech index and the five quality indicators that are setting new standards for EdTech vendors. This episode also examines the timely topic of staff transitions over the summer, unpacking the challenges associated with tech handovers, acc…

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The CLEAR Leadership Model: 5 Simple Shifts that Transform Team Performance 35:08

3M ago35:08

35:08

In this episode, host Dr. Steve Vargo turns the focus to leadership, presenting the CLEAR Leadership Model. Dr. Vargo outlines a five-step framework designed to build trust, boost accountability, and foster engagement within an eyecare practice. The model, which stands for Coach with Curiosity, Lead by Listening, Equip with Skills, Align Around Pur…

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311. Christine Starr- Executive Director- Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole 27:00

3M ago27:00

27:00

Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ https://www.imsihopecommunityphaseii.com/ IMSI HO…

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Episode 219 - Do you enable GenAI tools for all age levels? 46:12

3M ago46:12

46:12

Join Josh, Chris, and Mark for Episode 219! We dive into the latest news, including the State of Maine's Yubikey deployment, the reintroduction of KOSA, and Google's Gemini and NotebookLM now available for K12. Plus, we'll cover the ongoing E-rate decision. Our main topic for this episode: How are you deploying AI in your district now that major LL…

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You Can’t Be the Doctor and the Manager: Why EOS Might Be the System You Need 45:40

4M ago45:40

45:40

In this episode, Steve interviews Dr. Garrett Whitmore, an OD who has successfully implemented the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to manage his thriving, multi-location practice. Dr. Whitmore explains the six core components of EOS—vision, people, data, issues, processes, and traction—and how these practical tools help run a business effici…

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Episode 218 - Rethinking Guest WiFi (Without Mark) 43:53

4M ago43:53

43:53

On this week's episode, Chris and Josh discuss guest WiFi, in particular whether or not to offer it to students during the school day, new employees (training, accounts, and more), and tech dept vacation days. https://www.the74million.org/article/school-districts-unaware-boarddocs-software-published-their-private-files/ https://www.bleepingcomputer…

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The Future Is Clear: Game-Changing Lens Tech Every OD Should Know 27:11

4M ago27:11

27:11

In this episode, the focus is on the integral yet often overlooked area of lens technologies, including progressive lenses, task lenses, and digital enhancements. The guest, Phil Cummins, Director of Sales at Three Rivers Optical, shares insights into the latest advancements in lens technology, particularly around filters for headaches, myopia cont…

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310. Michael Scherer- St. Dismas ministry to prisoners 27:00

4M ago27:00

27:00

Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org/advocacy-systemicchangeofid/ https://www.imsihopecommunityphaseii.com/ IMSI HO…

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Episode 217 - How to Write a Better RFP 43:07

4M ago43:07

43:07

On this week's episode, hosts Josh, Chris, and Mark discuss the Dept of Education's proposed budget and what the cuts could mean for K-12 education. Many of the programs may seem distant from our world but the trickle-down effects could be felt immediately for many districts. We also dive into some additional changes at the FCC as well as MS-ISAC, …

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Using AI for Smarter Hiring, Training and Efficiency 37:24

4M ago37:24

37:24

In this episode, we welcome back Ankit Patel to discuss the innovative use of AI in his business, My Business Care Team, which provides virtual staffing solutions for eyecare practices. Ankit explains how AI can address staffing challenges, create effective job descriptions, facilitate behavioral-based interviews, and streamline the hiring process.…

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309. Michael King- Director & Creator of The Communities Project 27:00

4M ago27:00

27:00

Learn more about The Communities Project here: https://communitiesproject.org/ Victory Over Sin is a show hosted by Mark Renick that addresses issues pertaining to returning citizens and the challenges they face coming out of incarceration. Victory Over Sin airs Saturdays at 12:30 pm. On 94.5 FM and 790 AM KSPD Boise's Solid Talk https://svdpid.org…

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Episode 216 - How do you handle a curious or mischievous tech student? 50:40

4M ago50:40

50:40

Tune in for an engaging chat about the latest educational AI updates from Microsoft, which include new tools and changes, such as Microsoft co-pilot chat features for students aged 13 and up. The discussion also touches on the dynamics of summer school technology mishaps. The hosts also discuss how to handle students' tech misadventures, exploring …

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Built for Kids: How Dr. Jeremy Ciano Created a Pediatric Powerhouse in Optometry 31:50

4M ago31:50

31:50

In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Ciano shares insights into his journey in pediatric optometry. Dr. Ciano moved to Indiana and started an adult clinic 18 years ago, expanding into pediatric care 12 years ago. Now with four practices, he discusses the unique challenges and rewards of pediatric eye care. Highlights include essential qualities for pediatri…