Episode 49 - Edtech Series | Matt Monjan: Building Edtech That Actually Works in Classrooms

Описание: In this inaugural episode of our new sub-series on Education Technology, host Jason Buccheri is joined by seasoned EdTech veteran Matt Monjan, founder of Infuse Ed. With decades of experience on the front lines—including 14 years at Discovery Education—Matt offers a rare, unvarnished look at the realities of the K-12 market.

This conversation is a must-listen for EdTech founders, startups, and investors who want to bridge the gap between building a great tool and achieving successful, long-term implementation in a school district. Matt emphasizes the importance of co-building with district leaders rather than trying to shoehorn finished products into existing systems. He shares critical insights on understanding the "family trees" of district leadership and the "lighthouse approach" for strategic, localized growth. Whether you are a newcomer or a veteran, Matt's practical advice provides a roadmap for navigating procurement and implementation effectively.

Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ educationmatters.media

About: Each week, we bring you candid and personal interviews with educators and edtech leaders.

New episodes: Every Tuesday & Thursday—don’t miss next week’s conversation!

Join the convo: What’s your take on today’s discussion? Feedback is good! Comment below.

Timestamps:
[00:00:00] Advice For Co-Building With School Leaders
[00:00:38] Introduction To Education Matters New Tech Sub-Series
[00:01:21] Bridging The Gap Between Founders And Districts
[00:01:42] Introducing EdTech Seasoned Leader Matt Monjan
[00:02:44] Welcome To The Show From Maryland
[00:03:42] Matt Monjan’s Professional Background And EdTech Journey
[00:04:42] Starting At Discovery Education During The Streaming Media Shift
[00:06:16] Reflections On Educational Background And Early Learning
[00:08:43] Understanding Shifts In Learning And Digital Device Use
[00:10:04] Transitioning From Career Resistance To Education Calling
[00:11:48] Working With Administrators To Help Kids
[00:12:15] Inspiring Experiences From Miami-Dade Turnaround Schools
[00:14:15] The One Constant For Successful Educational Leaders
[00:15:45] Advice For Startups On Engaging With School Leaders
[00:16:53] Overview Of Infuse Ed And Scaling Outreach
[00:18:47] Common Traits Of The Best EdTech Companies
[00:20:23] Common Mistakes Founders Make With AI And Product Impact
[00:22:35] Why Building EdTech With Intent Is Key To Success
[00:24:19] Building Trust And Navigating District Procurement Realities
[00:25:23] The Lighthouse Approach For Early EdTech Growth
[00:27:52] Understanding The Family Trees Of District Leaders
[00:29:24] Challenges In School District Tech Adoption And Awareness
[00:30:50] Strategies For Successful Long-Term Product Implementation
[00:33:05] Future Trends In EdTech: Innovation In AI And Content
[00:39:51] Social Impact Lens: Focusing On What Is Good For Kids
[00:42:30] Podcast Credits