PODCAST · education
The Next Class 2.0
Education veterans Rob Birdsell and Tom Burnford interview industry leaders about a wide range of topics related to the future of K-12 education. Sponsored by Catholic Virtual.
Episodes
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Season 7 - Episode 1 (Part 2) - Sucession Planning
In Part 2 of Succession Planning in The Next Class, Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey join governance expert Rich Barth to unpack how proactive succession planning strengthens Catholic school leadership and preserves mission continuity. Drawing on experience across military, tech, nonprofit, and...
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Season 7 - Episode 1 (Part 1) - Succession Planning
In Part 1 of Succession Planning, hosts Rob Birdsell and Dr. Erin Barisano welcome Amanda Livermore, Founding President of Cristo Rey Orlando, and Dave Mason, President of San Miguel Cristo Rey Tucson, to discuss why succession planning is vital to the long-term health of Catholic schools. The...
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Season 6 - Episode 9 - End of the year
This season‑ending episode brings together reflections on Catholic education’s future, the rise of school choice, and the urgent need for mission‑driven leadership. The hosts revisit standout conversations—from higher‑ed fragility to thriving models and succession planning—offering school leaders...
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Season 6 - Episode 8 - Fabrice Gautrat
This inspiring episode highlights leadership lessons relevant to school leaders: add outrageous value, build unparalleled environments, and meet people where they are. Coach Gautrat emphasizes clear vision, extreme ownership, communication, and culture-building. He champions self-awareness, joy,...
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Season 6 - Episode 7 - Peter Stokes
The Future of Higher Education: What Catholic School Leaders Need to Know Higher education is confronting major demographic and financial challenges. This is essential information for Catholic school leaders advising students on higher education. Join President Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey in a...
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Season 6 - Episode 6- Steve Cheeseman
Join Rob Birdsell and Erin Barisano in an inspiring dialogue with Dr. Steve Cheeseman, President of NCEA. Dr. Cheeseman shares encouraging insights on the future of Catholic education, noting renewed hope and mission‑driven energy across schools nationwide. School communities are strengthening...
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Season 6 - Episode 5 - School Board best practices
Join this thought-provoking podcast as Erin Barisano talks with Catholic Education Services President Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey on the transformative power of Catholic school boards. They explore why today’s governance challenges demand spiritual grounding, intentional culture‑building, and…
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Season 6 - Episode 4 - John Reyes & Angela Mitchell
Join Rob Birdsell and Erin Barisano in this episode as they engage in a thought-provoking dialogue with John Reyes, Director of Research and Program Evaluation, and Angela Mitchell, Director of Leadership Formation Programs, both representing the Roche Center for Catholic Education. This...
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Season 6 - Episode 3 - Brandon Jacobs
Join Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey as they dive into a thought-provoking episode with Brandon Jacobs, Search Consultant at Carney, Sandoe & Associates, as they explore the ever-evolving landscape of leadership in private and Catholic schools. From rethinking traditional roles and expectations to...
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Season 6 - Episode 2 - Marco Clark
In this episode, Dr. Erin Barisano and Rob Birdsell connect with Marco Clark to kick things off. The conversation explores what excites Marco most about college life and how he’s navigating this new chapter. Erin reflects on this transition from high school student body president to leadership in...
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Season 6 - Pilot
Kicking off season 6 of The Next Class 2.0, host Robert Birdsell is joined by returning co-hosts Dr. Erin Barisano and Kent Hickey, along with new producer Carlos Cárdenas. This season introduces a refreshed format—each episode will start with a preview of the guest and topic, and wrap up with a...
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Episode 11 - Ashling Preston
In this special unedited edition of The Next Class, hosts Rob Birdsell and Erin Barisano welcome Ashling Kelly Preston, Associate Director of Government Relations for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Recorded just days after the House passed historic federal school choice legislation,...
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Episode 10 - Kirsten Oates
In this episode of The Next Class, Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey sit down with spiritual leadership coach Kirsten Oates. With a background spanning law, consulting, and executive strategy at the Center for Action and Contemplation, Kirsten brings a unique blend of intellect and introspection. She...
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Episode 9 - Kerry Robinson
In this powerful episode, hosts Rob Birdsell and Erin Barisano sit down with Kerry Alys Robinson, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, to explore the vital role of faith, leadership, and service in today’s world. Kerry shares her personal journey—from growing up in a legacy Catholic...
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Episode 8 - Jeff Thielman
In this episode of Next Class 2.0, hosts Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey welcomes Jeff Thielman, President and CEO of the International Institute of New England. Jeff shares his unique journey from his Jesuit volunteer experience in Peru to leading one of the nation’s oldest immigration and refugee...
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Episode 7 - Ed Jennings
In this episode, hosts Rob Birdsell, and Kent Hickey sit down with Ed Jennings, CEO of Quick Base, for an insightful conversation about leadership, adaptability, and lifelong learning. The discussion covers the mindset and habits that fuel long-term success, leadership lessons from Ed’s personal...
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Episode 6 - Lannie Davis
In this enlightening episode of The Next Class, hosts Rob Birdsell and Erin Barisano sit down with Lannie Davis, a trailblazer in inclusive education, to discuss her transformative work at the Julie Billiart Schools. From their humble beginnings as a single campus to their current multi-campus...
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Episode 5 - Lori Stanley
Join Rob Birdsell, Erin Barisano, and Lori Stanley in a thought-provoking discussion on faith and leadership in today’s world. From exploring Ignatian spirituality to leveraging technology for deeper connections, they share personal stories and insights that inspire and empower Catholic school...
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Episode 4 - Kelby Woodard
In this episode of The Next Class, hosts Rob Birdsell and Kent Hickey chat with Kelby Woodard, CEO of The Cristo Rey Network. From his start in corporate security to his unexpected pivot into politics and education, Kelby shares how his diverse background fuels his vision for Cristo Rey’s…
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Episode 3 - Fr. Belmonte & Dr. Rigg
In this insightful episode, host Rob Birdsell and co-host Dr. Erin Barisano engage with Dr. Jim Rigg and Fr. John Belmonte, superintendents from Miami and Sarasota. They explore Florida’s universal school choice and its benefits for Catholic education amid Miami’s cultural diversity. Fr. Belmonte...
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Episode 2 - Dan Porterfield
In this episode, Rob Birdsell, Kent Hickey, and Dan Porterfield explore the transformative power of education, diving into how mentorship and growth mindsets shape student success. They discuss Dan's new book, "Mindset Matters", and how Catholic schools and higher ed can foster lifelong growth. A...
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Season 5 - Pilot
Kicking off season 5 of "The Next Class 2.0," host Robert Birdsell is joined by Dr. Erin Barisano and Kent Hickey to discuss the latest trends and innovations in education. The conversation dives into the importance of relationships in Catholic schools, the impact of school choice on enrollment,...
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Episode 9 - Casey Carter and Dan O'Keefe
Rob Birdsell hosts Casey Carter and Dan O'Keefe to discuss the transformative potential of generative AI in education. They explore how AI can shift focus from memorization to critical thinking and address concerns about AI biases and risks. The episode highlights the importance of educators...
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Episode 8 - Rick Hess and Mike McShane
In this podcast episode, host Rob Birdsell talks with Mike McShane and Rick Hess about their new book, "Getting Education Right." They discuss conservative perspectives on education reform, the importance of personal responsibility, and thoughtful policy changes. They focus on early childhood...
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Episode 7 - Fr. James Martin
In this new podcast episode, Rob Birdsell is joined by Father James Martin. Fr. Martin explores the significance of Lazarus' resurrection, touching on art, literature, and the delay before his raising. He also shares personal insights, linking the biblical story to daily life and spirituality....
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Episode 6 - Josh Hale and Chis Chandler (Part 2)
Tune in for the continuation of Rob Birdsell, Josh Hale, and Chis Chandler's discussion on fundraising strategies and the teacher shortage crisis. Discover the power of authentic relationships with donors and alumni. Explore innovative tactics to retain school leaders and combat teacher turnover,...
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Episode 6 - Josh Hale and Chis Chandler (Part 1)
Join host Rob Birdsell in this exciting podcast episode as he welcomes guests Josh Hale and Chris Chandler to discuss the dynamic world of school leadership, with a special focus on fundraising for Catholic schools. Dive into their insightful conversation where they emphasize the vital role of...
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Episode 5 - Katie Everett
In this episode, Rob Birdsell, the host, welcomes Katie Everett, executive director of the Lynch Foundation. They discuss the foundation's focus on five areas, including Catholic education. Katie highlights the foundation's commitment to supporting Catholic schools and mentions the diverse...
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Episode 4 - Sr. Vickie Perkins
In this podcast episode, hosts Rob and Niko welcome Sister Vickie Perkins as their special guest. Sister Vickie, the founding president of Crystal Ray Kansas City, shares her inspiring journey. She discusses the inception of the school, breaking the cycle of poverty through education, and her...
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Episode 3 - Fr. Jeffery Sullivan
In this week's new episode, meet Fr. Jeff Sullivan, serving as the assistant director of Campus Ministry at Creighton University. Join Rob as he delves into Fr. Jeff's insights on spiritual leadership within educational settings, the significance of prayer, and the avenues to discover and…
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Episode 2 - Lincoln Snyder
Lincoln Snyder is the President/CEO of the National Catholic Educational Association. In this episode, we explore Lincoln's thoughts on Catholic education in the US, new strategies for NCEA, and what he thinks about class choice. Tune in for the full episode!
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Episode 1- Tim Uhl & Rob Birdsell
In this special episode of the "The Next Class" podcast, Rob Birdsell is joined by his guest Dr. Tim Uhl, a multifaceted education leader. Rob, the host of The Next Class podcast, holds the titles of Executive Vice-President at Amerigo Education, President of Catholic Virtual, and is the…
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Episode 10 - BJ Cassin
In this episode, Rob and Tom get together with venture capitalist B.J. Cassin. B.J. founded and chaired the Cassin Educational Initiative Foundation, providing start-up funds for 25 Cristo Rey high schools nationwide!
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Episode 9 - John Rey
In this episode, Rob gets together with John Rey for a live podcast. John is currently the Principal Consultant at Capa Pro, which provides training and infrastructure support to help education and nonprofit organizations.
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Episode 8 - Kim Smith
Rob and Tom host a special guest named Kim Smith. Kim is an innovator and serial social entrepreneur. Kim has founded and had involvement with multiple companies including the Pahara Institute, Teach for America, New Schools Venture Fund and more!
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Episode 7- Melodie Wyttenbach
Join Rob and Tom as they welcome Melodie Wyttenbach, executive director of the Barbara and Patrick Roche Center for Catholic Education at the Lynch School of Education and Human Development.
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Episode 6 - Josh Hale
In this episode, Rob and Tom welcome a special guest by the name of Josh Hale. Josh is the President and CEO of Big Shoulders Fund.
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Episode 5 - Don Shalvey
Rob and Tom welcome Don Shalvey to the Next Class. Don is the founder of Aspire Public Schools, one of the first charter schools in America, and former Deputy Director of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
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Episode 4 - Rob Schnieders
Rob and Tom welcome Rob Schnieders – the Vice President for Online Strategy and Innovation at Fairfield University and the former Co-Host of the Next Class!
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Episode 3 - Brent Maddin
Rob and Tom welcome Bren Madden – the Executive Director, Next Education Workforce at Arizona State University. Brent shares his work around developing the next generation teacher work force.
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Episode 2 - Jeanne Allen
Rob and Tom welcome Jeanne Allen – the founder and CEO of the Center for Education Reform. They dive deep into the NAEP scores and what it means for the students. Sponsored by Catholic Virtual.
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Episode 1 - Jeb Bush
Rob and Tom start the new season off with Jeb Bush, 43rd governor of the state of Florida, about the current state of education, online vs remote learning, and much more.
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Episode 12 - Bishop Hying
For the first time Rob and Tom have an episcopal guest…the Most Reverend Donald Hying, Bishop of Madison, Wisconsin. Come hear about his new Catholic school, a web developer who has been beatified, what parents want from Catholic education, and snowmobiling.
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Episode 11 - Jose Mesa
Rob and Tom talk with Fr. Mesa, Secretary of Secondary and Pre-Secondary Education for the Society of Jesus (Jesuit), about what makes Jesuit education unique and about their interests in opening new Jesuit schools around the world.
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Episode 10 - Rick Hess
Rob and Tom talk with leading educational policy expert – Rick Hess – about what education will look like after the pandemic. Rick is the Director of Education Policy at the American Enterprise Institute.
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Episode 9: Beginnings and Endings: A New Vision for Education
Something different – Rob and Tom are the guests on The Next Class as they discuss the article “Beginnings and Endings: A New Vision for Education” and how online education can enhance traditional schools in six practical ways.
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Episode 8 - Lincoln Snyder
Lincoln Snyder is the President/CEO of the National Catholic Educational Association and talks to Rob and Tom about Catholic education in the US, enrollment increases, and what he learned working for beverage companies in Europe.
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Episode 7 - Fr. Steve Katsouros
Join Rob and Tom as they learn about another creative and growing education model from Fr. Katsouros, founder of Arrupe College in Chicago and current President/CEO of the Come to Believe Network.
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Episode 6 - Dr. Philippe Richard
Rob and Tom go global with Dr. Philippe Richard, Secretary General of the International Office of Catholic Education from Rome. Learn what’s happening outside the US, next year’s World Congress, and why Philippe works with the UN and UNESCO.
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Episode 5 - Fr. John Foley
Fr. Foley founded the Cristo Rey Network, a new model of high school. But where did the inspiration come from? Join Rob and Tom as they hear from Fr. John about his work and thoughts on the future.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Education veterans Rob Birdsell and Tom Burnford interview industry leaders about a wide range of topics related to the future of K-12 education. Sponsored by Catholic Virtual.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Next Class 2.0 have?
The Next Class 2.0 currently has 55 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Next Class 2.0 about?
Education veterans Rob Birdsell and Tom Burnford interview industry leaders about a wide range of topics related to the future of K-12 education. Sponsored by Catholic Virtual.
How often does The Next Class 2.0 release new episodes?
The Next Class 2.0 has 55 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The Next Class 2.0?
You can listen to The Next Class 2.0 on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Next Class 2.0?
The Next Class 2.0 is created and hosted by [email protected].
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