The Learning Experience: What Utah is Building with AI & Why it Matters

The Learning Experience: What Utah is Building with AI & Why it Matters

Author: Jethro Jones March 24, 2026 Duration: 40:09

This week, we're sharing a special episode from The Learning Experience powered by CAST, part of the Be Podcast Network. 

You'll hear from Matt Winters, a leader from the Utah State Board of Education, discussing how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of teaching and learning. The conversation explores Utah’s statewide approach to AI, what it means for educators and students, and how schools can balance innovation with responsibility. The episode offers practical insights and big-picture thinking for anyone curious about the role of AI in education. This episode is brought to you by ReadSpeaker. Learn more about how ReadSpeaker aligns with UDL.

Transcript

Resources:


Listen and subscribe to The Learning Experience powered by CAST: https://www.cast.org/connect/learning-experience-podcast 


Hosted by educator and researcher Eli Davis, Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk cuts through the hype to explore how these tools are actually being used in schools. This isn't a theoretical discussion about the future; it's grounded in the present reality of classrooms. Each episode features conversations with the teachers, specialists, and leaders who are integrating AI into their daily practice. You'll hear honest stories about what works, what doesn't, and the nuanced challenges that come with new technology. The focus is on practical application-how AI can serve as a collaborative thought partner to enhance teaching, not replace it. Davis guides discussions toward critical questions of equity, bias, and accessibility, ensuring the dialogue centers on improving outcomes for every student. This podcast provides a necessary space for educators to share their on-the-ground experiences, offering listeners a clearer understanding of both the potential and the pitfalls. It’s for anyone in the field of education who wants to move beyond fear or fascination toward a more informed and intentional use of artificial intelligence. You'll gain actionable insights and a more balanced perspective from people who are navigating this landscape right now.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 41

Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk
Podcast Episodes
Bridging the AI Gap with Zach Kinzler [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:05
In this episode, Eli Davis talks with Zach Kinzler, an AI educator and advocate. They discuss Kinzler's background, his work in integrating AI into education, and his experiences working with students globally, including…
The Evolution of Conversational AI with Peter Swimm [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:17
In this episode, Eli Davis speaks with Peter Swimm, a conversational AI technologist. Peter, the founder of Toilville, LLC, discusses his work in designing AI tools, the balance between automation and human touch, ethics…
The Two-Hour Learning Model with McKenzie Price [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:20
In this episode of Artificial Intelligence, Real Talk (AI with Eli), host Eli Davis sits down with McKenzie Price, Stanford grad, mom of two, and co-founder of the Two Hour Learning platform. McKenzie shares her journey…
Integrating AI into Our Lives with Dr. Teaira McMurty [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:58
In this episode, host Eli Davis welcomes his wife, Dr. Teaira McMurtry, to discuss the impact and use of artificial intelligence in education, personal life, and beyond. They delve into personal stories, professional ins…
Innovations in Dyslexia Education with AI with Annette Teasdell [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:09
In this episode, Eli Davis speaks with Dr. Annette Teasdell, a nationally recognized scholar of urban education and an acclaimed author. Dr. Teasdell shares her journey, experiences, and insights on dyslexia, the transfo…
Equity & Inclusion with Delquan Dorsey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:42
In this episode, Eli Davis welcomes Delquan Dorsey. They delve into their professional journeys, particularly focusing on Delquan's role in Jefferson County Public Schools, where he works on diversity, equity, and povert…
Navigating AI Bias and Access with Dr. Marlena Ward Dodds [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:51
In this episode, host Eli Davis welcomes his longtime friend Dr. Marlena Ward Dodds. They explore artificial intelligence, particularly its impact on education and inclusivity, the challenges of online learning, and the…
Introducing AI in Education: Real Talk [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:36
In this first episode of 'Artificial Intelligence: Real Talk,' host Jethro D. Jones introduces Eli Davis, an educator and AI enthusiast, who will be taking over the podcast. The episode delves into the transformative pow…