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Tony Wan is Head of Platform at Reach Capital and co-founder and former managing editor of EdSurge. Betsy Corcoran is a writer, speaker, serial entrepreneur, and co-founder of EdSurge who explores AI and learning through her work and podcast, Future Fluent.

💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How EdSurge helped shape the early edtech ecosystem.
Why edtech needs more honest and nuanced storytelling.
What the tech backlash gets right and where it misses the bigger picture.
Why teacher-turned-founders and school leaders are critical voices in edtech.
How AI can support education without becoming the focus itself.

✨ Episode Highlights:
[00:03:48] The origins of EdSurge and the need for an edtech “water cooler.”
[00:13:49] Why teacher-turned-founders deserve a bigger voice in the tech backlash.
[00:18:04] Starting with the “why” instead of treating technology as the solution.
[00:23:58] Tony on the legitimate concerns around screen time and edtech.
[00:26:23] Betsy on why edtech needs more honesty about what doesn’t work.
[00:34:01] Why humility and learning from failure matter in edtech.
[00:35:50] Tony on where AI can genuinely add value in education.
[00:47:51] Betsy on the questions edtech should keep asking: Why, when, and when not to use technology.

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🎉 Presenting Sponsor/s:

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.

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Why Edtech Needs Less Hype and More Honesty with Tony Wan & Betsy Corcoran

Edtech Insiders

Why Edtech Needs Less Hype and More Honesty with Tony Wan & Betsy Corcoran