In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we dive into the transformative power of data in education with Chris Hull, former educator and co-founder of Otus. Otus is a K-12 assessment and data insights platform designed to centralize the many fragmented tools educators use and provide actionable data to drive student success. Chris brings a deep understanding of the classroom and a passion for leveraging technology to empower teachers, students, and families.

We talk about the overwhelming nature of data in schools today and how Otus helps educators move from being "data rich but information poor" to truly data-informed. Chris explains how the platform supports intentional instruction, fosters collaboration across stakeholders, and simplifies the daily workflow through AI-powered insights. Instead of adding more to teachers' plates, Otus is designed to save time and enhance student outcomes.

From the value of asking better questions to the magic of those “aha” moments in the classroom, this conversation offers practical insight into using data not just as numbers on a page, but as a tool for deeper connection and more effective teaching. If you've ever felt lost in the sea of edtech tools or unsure how to make data work for you, this episode is for you.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• How Otus simplifies and centralizes educational data for teachers
• The importance of data literacy and asking better questions
• How AI assists in interpreting student performance
• Turning instinctual insights into actionable strategies
• Reducing teacher workload while increasing impact

Resources:

• Learn more about Otus
• Connect with Chris on LinkedIn

Produced by NOVA

In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we're joined by Nick Salmon, Mar Cano Mesa, and Erin O’Reilly, co-authors of TeamEd, a transformative guide to collaboration in education. Together, they share the story behind their international partnership and their deeply rooted belief that teaming—at every level of the education ecosystem—is essential to building a more learner-centered, sustainable, and joyful system.

We dig into what makes a true team (not just a group), how ecosystem thinking influences team development, and how teacher preparation programs can intentionally plant the seeds of collaboration. Erin shares how she integrates team-based principles into her work training future educators, while Mar explores how visiting schools like Green School Bali and High Tech High shaped her approach. Nick reminds us that education needs diverse voices—especially non-traditional ones—and that the power of team teaching can unlock possibilities we never imagined.

Tune in to hear how this trio models the very work they advocate for—blending ideas, supporting one another’s growth, and pushing education toward a more equitable, connected, and empowered future.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• Why true collaboration means more than just working in groups
• The role of ecosystems in transforming education
• Practical strategies for building trust and psychological safety in teams
• How teacher prep programs can use teaming to support retention
• The power of including non-traditional voices in education
• Using teaming as a model for both staff and students

Resources:

• Read TeamEd
• Green School Bali – A model of holistic, sustainability-focused education
• High Tech High
• Connect with Nick on LinkedIn
• Connect with Mar Cano on LinkedIn
• Connect with Erin on LinkedIn

Produced by NOVA

Math anxiety holds many students back, but what if we could change the way they experience mathematics? In this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Dr. Aditya Nagrath, founder of Elephant Learning Mathematics Academy, to explore how his innovative approach helps students master years of math in just a few months—using only 10 minutes a day, three days a week.

Dr. Nagrath shares the science behind teaching math as a language, explaining why early exposure to mathematical thinking strengthens all forms of literacy. He also dives into the root causes of math anxiety, how belief systems shape student confidence, and why meeting children at their level of understanding is critical for success. His research-backed methodology focuses on experiential learning, ensuring students grasp math concepts rather than just memorizing formulas.

With a mission to transform math education, Elephant Learning is now expanding into public schools, making these powerful tools accessible to more students. Join us as we discuss how we can change the narrative around math, boost confidence, and ensure every child has the foundation they need to thrive in a world that’s becoming increasingly mathematical.

To learn more, visit: pastfoundation.org

We unbox:

• How math anxiety develops and how to overcome it
• Why learning math early enhances overall literacy
• The power of experiential learning in math education
• How Elephant Learning personalizes math instruction in just 10 minutes a day
• The importance of belief and confidence in student success
• Bringing research-backed math tools into public education

Resources:

• Learn more: Elephant Learning Mathematics Academy
• Read: Treating Mathematics Anxiety by Dr. Aditya Nagrath

Produced by NOVA