The App That Turns Lightbulb Moments Into Lifelong Skills

In today’s episode, I sit down with Gary Surdam, CEO of Bright Start Ed-Tech, whose new mobile app “Illuminate” uses AI to personalize learning for students while empowering parents to become active educators at home. Gary shares how a single “lightbulb moment” in an online class inspired a ten-year journey toward creating a tool that blends emotional intelligence with STEAM education. We talk about his unique approach to building the app with student interns, the global mission behind Funding Hope, and why true learning lasts forever when both children and parents are supported in their growth.