From Arcades to Education: Brent Bushnell of Two Bit Circus on a STEAM-Powered Learning Revolution

Send us Fan MailBrent Bushnell is an entrepreneur and engineer focused on experiences for entertainment and learning. He's the founder of Two Bit Circus, a live entertainment company that builds and exhibits all-ages, social attractions. He’s chairman of the non-profit Two Bit Foundation which uses games and play to inspire students about invention. Brent is a Sir Edmund Hillary Fellow, a supporter of Clowns Without Borders and publishes on social media @brentbushnell.💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Brent’s journey from arcade builder to education innovator unfolded.The origin and impact of the STEAM Carnival and how it helped reframe STEM learning through art and play.Why clean waste is a powerful, untapped resource for hands-on learning in schools.How DIY arcade cabinets are empowering students to learn CAD, electronics, business—and earn income.The exciting future of immersive learning with escape rooms, virtual reality, and AI-guided experiences.✨ Episode Highlights:[00:03:33] How a viral OK Go music video accidentally sparked an education movement[00:04:49] “STEAM not STEM”: Why art is essential to innovation[00:08:45] Inside the Two Bit Foundation’s clean waste model and its success in LAUSD[00:13:10] The Open Source Arcade Project: A full-spectrum STEAM learning experience[00:21:26] The evolution of the maker and open-source movements[00:27:58] How AI can bridge the gap for students lacking tech or coding skills[00:34:25] New venue in Santa Monica: Turning entertainment spaces into learning spaces😎 Stay updated with Edtech Insiders! Follow our Podcast on:Apple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicSign up for the Edtech Insiders newsletter.Follow Edtech Insiders on LinkedIn!🎉 Presenting Sponsor:Innovation in preK to gray learning is powered by exceptional people. For over 15 years, EdTech companies of all sizes and stages have trusted HireEducation to find the talent that drives impact. When specific skills and experiences are mission-critical, HireEducation is a partner that delivers. Offering permanent, fractional, and executive recruitment, HireEducation knows the go-to-market talent you need. Learn more at HireEdu.com. This season of Edtech Insiders is brought to you by Cooley LLP. Cooley is the go-to law firm for education and edtech innovators, offering industry-informed counsel across the 'pre-K to gray' spectrum. With a multidisciplinary approach and a powerful edtech ecosystem, Cooley helps shape the future of education. Tuck Advisors was founded by entrepreneurs who built and sold their own companies, frustrated by other m and a firms, they created the one they wished they could have hired but couldn't find. One who understands what matters to founders and whose North Star KPI is the percentage of deals closed. If you're thinking of selling your ed tech company or buying one contact Tuck advisors now. Every year, K-12 districts and higher ed institutions spend over half a trillion dollars—but most sales teams miss the signals. Starbridge tracks early signs like board minutes, budget drafts, and strategic plans, then helps you turn them into personalized outreach—fast. Win the deal before it hits the RFP stage. That’s how top edtech teams stay ahead.