Quantum Leap

Hosted by Kiran Kodithala

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Oct 2026

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The Age of AI is upon us - higher education's approach will author a new and vibrant path forward for students, faculty, administrations, thought leaders, solution providers, and innovators. The Quantum Leap podcast brings together the brightest minds to unpack the opportunity before us.

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October 26, 202642 min

To What End? Camille Stewart Gloster on Staying in Control of AI Agents

You lock your front door and set the alarm. Then you skip two-factor authentication and take your digital life as it comes. On Quantum Leap, brought to you by LightLeapAI®, Dr. Rod Berger sits down with Camille Stewart Gloster, CEO of CAS Strategies, former Deputy National Cyber Director for Technology and Ecosystem Security at the White House, and author of "The Insider You Built: How Organizations Stay in Control of Autonomous AI Agents" (Wiley). She wrote the book after leaving the White House and watching organizations sort themselves into two camps. One bought the hype without understanding it. The other refused to touch it. Both camps worried her. Her response is the ACE Framework, Authority-Centered Enforcement, which asks leaders to manage an AI agent the way they already manage any insider: decide what it can do on your behalf, keep human judgment where it matters, and know what happened when something goes wrong. Camille and Rod cover her account of AI agents that worked together to hide their cheating from a grader, a communications professor who now has students justify every line of an AI-assisted press release, and what students face when automation takes the bottom rung of the career ladder. Camille also talks about growing up with Jamaican immigrant parents and a computer scientist father, a college process her family had to figure out from scratch, and why she treats every job description as the start of a negotiation. And when the talk turns to the day AI outsmarts us, she answers with a question of her own: to what end? Quantum Leap is brought to you by LightLeapAI®. Build your enterprise from a prompt. Meridian by LightLeapAI® is the application platform for higher education: describe what you need in plain language and get a governed, multi-tenant app you own. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4hZOqmO Get "The Insider You Built": https://bit.ly/3VXlqUd CHAPTERS 0:00 The Quantum Leap open 1:02 Welcome, and meet Camille Stewart Gloster 3:48 Hype on one side, fear on the other 6:22 What hit the kitchen floor 9:53 Comfortable with not knowing 12:28 A lock on the front door 13:51 Can institutions keep pace? 16:45 Agents that covered their tracks 18:57 A history test and better questions 24:11 Fear, curiosity, and a job that keeps changing 25:40 The bottom rung goes away 26:24 Immigrant parents and the start of a negotiation 28:51 A word from LightLeapAI® 29:07 Why "stay in control" 30:38 What higher education should do now 33:41 When AI passes us, and to what end 36:57 The acknowledgments, read aloud 38:41 What writing the book taught her 41:00 Where to find the book 41:23 The Quantum Leap close ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Learn more about Camille and "The Insider You Built": https://bit.ly/3VXlqUd Learn more about CAS Strategies: https://bit.ly/3UJ5VPk Learn more about LightLeapAI®: https://bit.ly/4hZOqmO Connect with Rod on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodbergerpsyd/ KEY TAKEAWAYS Buying the hype and refusing to touch AI carry the same risk: neither does the work of understanding it. Treat an AI agent like any insider. Decide its authority, set its boundaries, and keep a way to see what it did. Today's answer may change tomorrow, so build in a way that shows you exactly where to make the change. Most of us lock the front door. Few of us bring the same care to our digital lives. If automation takes the bottom rung of the career ladder, new graduates will need to arrive already managing agents. A job description is the start of a negotiation. #QuantumLeap #AIGovernance #AIAgents #Cybersecurity #HigherEducation

October 6, 202645 min

A College Degree to Get a College Degree

Derek Bierman got his first job in a Metallica T-shirt and torn jeans, with no resume, no portfolio, and no experience on a computer. He got it because the man giving the tour recognized his last name, pulled a family tree out of a drawer, and found the branch where the two families met. Bierman now serves as Vice President for Technology Services and Chief Information Officer at Doane University. He had wanted to be an artist. In high school, airbrushing paid him better than the job he actually held. A few years into the work, he built an internal tool he was proud of and received straight zeros on his review. The explanation he still repeats: "You built it for you, not for me." He describes user experience as the thing that eventually became his art form, and a career built less on talent than on refusing to stop trying. He joins our Storyteller in Residence, Dr. Rod Berger, on Quantum Leap. What would change on your campus if the person running technology had trained as an artist first? #HigherEducation #CIO #Leadership #AIinEducation

July 7, 202634 min

Embracing Change in Higher Education: Insights from Nate Tucker of Lee University

Embracing Change in Higher Education: Insights from Nate Tucker In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, educational institutions often find themselves at a crossroads, faced with the challenge of adapting to new paradigms. In this blog post, we’ll explore the insights shared by Nate Tucker, Vice President for Information Technology at Lee University, during his conversation with Dr. Rod Berger. This discussion delves into the intersection of technology and education, highlighting the importance of human connection, effective communication, and the need for adaptability in the face of change. The Impact of In-Person Experiences Nate Tucker reflects on his experience attending a talk by Bill Nye, the Science Guy, emphasizing how live interactions enhance the effectiveness of communication. Watching Nye engage with the audience reinforced the idea that communication transcends words; it encompasses body language, facial expressions, and the energy in the room. This experience serves as a reminder that the essence of communication is not just in the delivery but in how it resonates with the audience. Understanding this dynamic is crucial in the educational sector, where fostering a positive learning environment relies on effective communication. Educators and technologists alike must focus on creating experiences that are engaging and relatable, making tough subjects more accessible. Navigating the Overload of Information In an era characterized by an overwhelming influx of information, Tucker addresses the notion of a modern obsession with content. With technology advancing at an unprecedented pace, individuals often find themselves inundated with choices and opportunities, leading to anxiety and confusion. Tucker suggests that leaders in education must guide their communities through this noise. By building relationships and demonstrating the tangible benefits of technological changes, educators can alleviate fears and encourage acceptance of new tools and systems. This is particularly vital in a landscape where decisions about technology must be made swiftly, often without the luxury of extensive deliberation. Building Relationships to Foster Change One of the key themes in Tucker’s approach is the importance of relationship-building. He notes that fostering connections within the institution can significantly ease the transition to new technologies. By prioritizing relationships, educators can create an environment where change is not only accepted but embraced. Tucker emphasizes the role of empathy in leadership, suggesting that understanding the concerns of faculty and staff is essential. When people see how a change will benefit them, they are more likely to support it. This perspective aligns with the idea that effective leadership is rooted in the ability to connect with others and convey a shared vision. The Puzzle of Technology in Education Tucker likens the process of integrating technology in education to solving a never-ending puzzle. Each piece represents a different aspect of technology, and as new tools emerge, the picture continuously evolves. Education leaders must remain agile, adapting their strategies to fit the changing landscape. The shift from traditional methods to agile approaches in project management reflects this need for adaptability. By embracing iterative processes, educators can respond to feedback and make necessary adjustments more rapidly, ultimately enhancing the educational experience. The Importance of Community Support Tucker highlights the value of community in navigating the challenges faced by educational institutions. He mentions various organizations and forums that provide a safe space for educators to share ideas, seek advice, and learn from one another's experiences. This collaborative approach fosters a culture of support and encourages innovation. In a world where competition is fierce, the higher education community can thrive by sharing best practices and insights. When institutions work together, they can collectively uplift the standards of education and ensure that all students receive the best possible experience. Key Takeaways - **Communication Matters**: Effective communication involves more than just words; it’s about engaging with the audience on multiple levels. - **Build Relationships**: Fostering connections can ease the anxieties associated with technological changes and encourage acceptance. - **Adaptability Is Key**: The landscape of education is ever-evolving, and leaders must be prepared to pivot and adjust their strategies accordingly. - **Community Support**: Collaborating with other institutions can lead to shared success and innovation in the field of education. As technology continues to reshape the educational landscape, the insights shared by Nate Tucker remind us of the importance of human connection, effective communication, and adaptability. By focusing on building relationships and fostering a supportive community, educators can navigate the challenges of change and create a positive learning environment for all. Want to dive deeper into this topic? Explore more conversations on technology in education! Check out Nate's website www.thenatetucker.com To learn more about LightLeapAI visit us!

June 1, 202647 min

Exploring AI's Impact on Education, Workforce, and Personal Growth with Ben Tasker

Exploring AI's Impact on Education, Workforce, and Personal Growth with Ben Tasker Join Dr. Rod Berger in this insightful episode of Quantum Leap as he speaks with Ben Tasker, a leader in AI education and workforce transformation, about the rapid evolution of AI and its profound implications across industries. Discover how AI can amplify human potential, reshape education, and drive personal and organizational adaptation. In this episode: The personal journey of Ben Tasker from healthcare data science to AI education The emotional and practical impacts of AI on jobs and skill development How AI is changing higher education, including microcredentials and personalized learning Strategies for preparing for perpetual change in skills and career paths The concept of "panic to pivot" in upskilling and lifelong learning The importance of mindset and agility in navigating AI-driven transformation Generational differences in attitudes toward AI and education reforms How continuous learning and adaptability are key to future success Practical advice for young people and parents on navigating career uncertainty The role of literacy—AI and human skills—in shaping a resilient future Timestamps: (00:00) - Welcome and overview of AI's expanding potential (01:56) - Ben Tasker's background and journey into AI (04:23) - The human-centric origins of AI and data science (07:22) - AI's threat and opportunity in the workplace (09:06) - The rapid evolution of generative AI models (11:22) - Personal anecdotes on learning and experimentation (14:08) - The generational divide in AI understanding at graduation ceremonies (16:07) - Challenges of keeping education current with AI advancements (18:56) - How AI shifts thinking and professional skills (22:32) - The importance of human versus AI skills (26:18) - Redesigning education systems for speed and competency (29:21) - From panic to pivot—upskilling success stories (33:48) - Navigating unpredictable career paths (36:57) - Fostering adaptability in the next generation (40:36) - The importance of mindset in AI integration (44:44) - Connecting with Ben Tasker for ongoing learning and collaboration Connect with Ben Tasker: LinkedIn Website Supporters: End to End Services Light Leap AI About the hosts and further episodes: Stay tuned for more thought-provoking conversations on how AI shapes our future. Follow Dr. Rod Berger for updates and insights.

May 13, 202645 min

The Philosophy of Education in the Age of AI

Summary In this engaging interview, Priten Soundar-Shah shares his insights on the intersection of education, technology, and ethics. He discusses the importance of philosophical thinking in education reform, the role of AI, and how educators can approach these challenges with intentionality and humanity. Keywords Education, ethics, AI, philosophy, educational reform, technology, human-centered learning, adaptive education, ethical ed tech, societal impact Key Topics The role of philosophy in education reform Ethical considerations in AI and ed tech The importance of slowing down and intentionality in decision-making Guest Name Pritten Soundar-Shah CEO, Pedagogy Ventures Ed.M. Education Policy | Harvard University A.B. Philosophy | Harvard College Faculty Instructor, College Unbound Founder, Academy 4 Social Civics Chapters 00:00Introduction to the Conversation 02:45The Motivation Behind Writing 05:58The Human Element in Education 09:49Philosophy and Education 14:57The Need for Slowing Down in Education 22:38Exploring Ethical Questions in Education 29:48The Role of Technology in Education 35:44Philosophical Perspectives on Education Reform 43:17Connecting with Priten Soundar-Shah 44:39QLPodcastOpen copy.wav

May 8, 202632 min

The Future of Workforce Development & Manufacturing with PJ McGrew

The Future of Workforce Development & Talent with PJ McGrew Brought to you by N2N Services and Lightleap AI (lightleapai.com) Guest: PJ McGrew, SVP of Talent Strategy and Programming, Conexus Indiana Episode Summary Host Dr. Rod Berger sits down with PJ McGrew to explore how Indiana is rethinking workforce development for the modern manufacturing era. PJ shares his journey from state government to Conexus Indiana, and how a network of 130+ manufacturing companies is co-designing education pipelines that prepare students for an AI- and automation-driven future. Key Topics Covered PJ's Background – From the Center for Education and Career Innovation under Governor Pence, to Chief of Staff at the State Board of Education, to Education Policy Advisor under Governors Pence and Holcomb, to the Governor's Workforce Cabinet — PJ's career traces the evolution of Indiana's education-workforce alignment efforts. Conexus Indiana & the Industry Talent Association – How Conexus, part of the CEOs of Indiana Corporate Partnership, brings together 130+ manufacturers to identify workforce needs and influence the education system accordingly. Skills-First, Not Job-First – Manufacturers pushed for building broad, foundational skills over narrow occupational training — recognizing that integrated, cross-functional roles are becoming the norm on the modern factory floor. The Retirement Cliff – 30%+ of Indiana's manufacturing workforce is over 55. Recruiting the next generation through exciting, technology-forward programming is critical. New Indiana Diploma Seals – Approved in December 2024, six new diploma seals include three that require work-based learning (75–650 hours), creating formal pathways for apprenticeships and internships. The Modern Apprenticeship Model – Inspired by Switzerland and Germany's employer-led vocational systems, Indiana's apprenticeship pilot (launched 2020) has served ~600 students. A new occupational standard is being ratified with 6 employers hosting ~10 apprentices in an upcoming pilot phase. Earn Indiana Program – A work-study-style program offsetting ~50% of intern/apprentice wages, lowering the barrier for employers to engage students early. Blind Spots in the System – Fragmented funding streams, transportation barriers, lack of local intermediaries, and siloed program design are key challenges that need system-level solutions. Cross-State Learning – Indiana was an early mover on industry talent associations; now states like Colorado are adopting the model. Cross-state knowledge sharing is active but nuanced, given regional differences. Pathway Consolidation – Plans to consolidate Indiana's 10 manufacturing CTE pathways into fewer, competency-aligned tracks to reduce confusion and better match employer needs. Quotes to Remember "If we're gonna design this new system, we need to show students that they can have a career in manufacturing." "Listening to employers earlier in the process means students are better prepared — and employers save on retraining costs." "We need local intermediaries to translate what employers need into what schools and students can actually access." Resources Mentioned Lightleap AI – lightleapai.com Conexus Indiana – conexusindiana.com Earn Indiana Program Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation *Host: Dr. Rod Berger | Quantum Leap in Higher Education Podcast*

May 5, 202640 min

Unlocking the Future of Quantum: Insights from Dr. Katrina Rosseini

Unlocking the Future of Quantum: Insights from Dr. Katrina Rosseini. Join us as Dr. Rod Berger converses with cybersecurity expert and emerging tech innovator, Dr. Katrina Rosseini, about the impact of AI, quantum computing, and the evolving technology landscape on society, security, and education. Discover how curiosity and diverse experiences shape the pioneers of tomorrow and what we need to do today to prepare. Main Topics Covered: Dr. Rosseini's journey into emerging technologies and the role of curiosity The influence of immigrant background and family stories on her career Critical infrastructure security and the importance of cybersecurity in hospitals The evolution and potential of quantum computing and its connection to AI The impact of emerging tech on global security, including encryption and cyber warfare How continuous updates and AI training sharpen skills and prepare us for technological advances The disruptive potential of quantum and AI in industries like drug discovery and logistics Challenges and opportunities in redefining higher education for a digital future The importance of early STEM education and creative approaches to tech training for future generations Insights into the pace of innovation in China and the necessity for a proactive educational system Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the podcast and Dr. Katrina Rosseini's background 00:56 - The importance of broad, deep approaches in emerging tech 01:50 - Dr. Rosseini's career path from hospitals to critical infrastructure 02:20 - Curiosity as the key driver into emerging technologies 03:28 - Behavioral science, tech, and education 04:07 - Growing up in an immigrant household and early questions about economics and technology 05:06 - Ransomware attacks on hospitals and their implications 05:49 - Dr. Rosseini's doctoral research on critical infrastructure vulnerabilities 06:28 - The rapid evolution of AI and its societal impact 07:04 - Overcoming obstacles as a woman in tech 08:26 - Her parents' immigrant story and their influence 09:26 - The legacy of courage and sacrifice in family history 11:07 - The necessity of engaging with emerging tech in education 12:25 - Opportunities for young people in the emerging tech landscape 13:22 - The value of diverse experiences and internal fulfillment 14:22 - Reinventing oneself in the era of AI and emerging tech 15:42 - The importance of perspective in technological change 16:16 - Using curiosity to stay sharp and adaptable 17:02 - Changing perceptions of aging and personal growth 17:42 - The synergy between AI and quantum computing 18:57 - Demystifying quantum computing and its future impact 21:34 - Quantum's role in medicine, physics, and logistics 22:38 - Quantum as a bridge to future innovations 23:26 - Misinformation and realistic timelines for quantum advancements 24:58 - The security challenges of quantum and AI convergence 26:12 - Quantum encryption and post-quantum cryptography 28:48 - How AI supercharges quantum potential and its risks 30:34 - Preparing your brain for rapid technological evolution 31:21 - Disruption in transportation and security through emerging tech 33:43 - The future of continuous authentication and biometric security 34:57 - The fascinating neural networks of octopuses as a metaphor 35:59 - Educating the next generation for the quantum era 36:14 - Rethinking higher education in an accelerated, technology-driven world 38:44 - The global race in quantum education and innovation 39:43 - The need for creative, practical tech training from early education 40:12 - Overcoming societal and institutional barriers to innovation 41:09 - Final thoughts on embracing curiosity and human potential Resources & Links: Light Leap AI Dr. Katrina Rosseini's LinkedIn (if available) Quantum Computing Explained (example book on Amazon) Connect with Dr. Katrina Rosseini: LinkedIn Twitter Special Thanks: N2N Services | Light Leap AI

April 28, 202645 min

Finding the AI Flip For An Upside Down World with Monica Marquez

How to Leverage AI for Career Growth: 5 Essential Insights Learn how to navigate AI in your career with insights from industry leader Monica Marquez. Discover practical tips for maximizing your potential in the evolving job market. In a world where AI is rapidly changing our work environments, many professionals find themselves grappling with how to adapt. This blog post will provide you with essential insights from Monica Marquez, a leader in workforce reinvention, on how to effectively leverage AI for career advancement. You'll learn about the evolving landscape and how to position yourself for success in this new era. About Monica Marquez Monica Marquez is the co-founder and workforce reinvention leader at Flipwork . With an impressive background that includes roles at Goldman Sachs and Texas Tech University, she is committed to helping individuals maximize their potential in the ever-evolving workplace. Her work focuses on demystifying AI and empowering professionals to embrace technology as a tool for growth. Understanding the Current AI Landscape AI is no longer just a buzzword; it's a reality that is reshaping industries and job roles. In a conversation with Rod Berger, Monica emphasized that while the advent of AI has created fear and uncertainty, it also presents unprecedented opportunities. The Fear of AI: Many people fear that AI will replace their jobs or diminish their value in the workplace. This apprehension is understandable given the rapid pace of AI technology's evolution. AI as a Tool: Instead of viewing AI as a threat, it's essential to see it as a powerful tool that can enhance human capabilities. Monica notes that AI is akin to other tools we've used throughout history, but it's evolving at an unprecedented pace. How to Embrace AI in Your Career To leverage AI effectively, it’s crucial to shift your mindset and approach. Here are five actionable strategies: 1. Cultivate Curiosity: Stay informed about AI trends and developments. Monica suggests that curiosity is key; by continually seeking knowledge, you can better understand how to apply AI in your work. Common Mistake: Many professionals avoid AI out of fear or misunderstanding. Embrace a learning mindset instead. 2. Reinvent Your Playbook: The traditional success playbook has changed. Post-AI, focus on how to use AI to augment your strengths rather than viewing it as a replacement for your skills. 3. Access Information: AI democratizes access to information. Utilize AI tools to gain insights and knowledge that were previously only available to a select few. This is particularly beneficial for underrepresented groups in tech. Cultural Insight: Many people still believe that AI is only for tech-savvy individuals, but this is a myth. Anyone can learn to use AI tools with the right guidance. 4. Focus on Impact: Shift your focus from effort to impact. The goal should be to create more value in your work, not just to put in more hours. Mindset Shift: Understand that using AI to produce faster results can lead to greater overall impact, which is now the new measure of success. 5. Educate Others: As you learn to leverage AI, share your knowledge with colleagues and peers. This not only reinforces your own understanding but also helps build a more AI-literate workforce. Community Building: Create or join groups that focus on AI education and collaboration, fostering an environment of shared learning. Key Takeaways - AI is not a threat but a tool that can enhance your career. - Curiosity and continuous learning are essential. - Reinvent your approach to success by focusing on impact rather than effort. - Educate yourself and others about AI to foster a collaborative learning environment. Navigating the world of AI can be daunting, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can not only survive but thrive in this new landscape. Embrace the changes, leverage AI to your advantage, and focus on the impact you can create in your career.

March 18, 202615 min

Rick Torres - Enrollment Data’s Relationship to Workforce Trends

Rick Torres Fireside Chat Guest: Rick Torres — Former CEO of the National Student Clearinghouse; career spanning PepsiCo, Kraft, and Capital One Overview: A fireside chat exploring data-driven decision-making in higher education, the evolving role of credentials, and how institutions can better serve students and adult learners in a rapidly changing landscape. Key Topics Discussed: Short-Form Credentials & the Student Perspective — How students view the value proposition of short-term credentials vs. traditional degrees, and the expectation of immediate economic return. Upskilling Adult Learners — The opportunity for community colleges and technical schools to serve the 37 million Americans with some college but no degree, helping them convert prior experience into new opportunities. Real-Time Institutional Responsiveness — The imperative for schools to have the technology and agility to respond to adult learners quickly and in real time. Regional Workforce Data & Heat Maps — Using Department of Labor data, Burning Glass, and other sources to create regional skill and job demand maps, and aligning institutional offerings accordingly. AI in Vocational & Technical Fields — A Wall Street Journal survey found ~900 of ~1,000 HVAC and technical companies are using AI (pulling schematics, automating billing), highlighting the need for AI literacy in vocational training. Data Privacy & Actionable Insights — How FERPA- and HIPAA-protected data can be used responsibly to benefit learners and educators without trampling privacy. The Future of the National Student Clearinghouse — Its continuing role as a federal intermediary, its relationships with ~90% of U.S. high schools, and its work on tracking socioeconomic lift from credentials. Defining Success with Data — Torres' "Moneyball" analogy for community colleges: institutions should define their own success through data rather than be defined by traditional metrics (e.g., the Austin Community College graduation rate story). A Personal Relationship with Data — Torres' lifelong love of numbers and cross-referencing experiences across fields. Key Quotes: "You can either use data to define who you are, or you will be defined by it — and maybe not in the ways that you like." "The power to show who you are is in the data, and the data is right there in front of you. Don't be defined by traditional metrics." "Is there a way to make use of data without trampling the privacy of individuals? I'm finding that the answer is yes."

March 13, 202628 min

The Accidental Leader: Emad Rahim Live at Quantum Leap 2026

Episode Summary: Emad Rahim — born in a concentration camp during the Khmer Rouge Genocide in Cambodia, raised as a stateless refugee in Brooklyn, and now a three-time doctorate holder, Fulbright Scholar, TEDx speaker, and award-winning educator — sits down for a fireside chat with N2N's Storyteller in Residence, Dr. Rod Berger, about the intersection of technology, education, and the power of human storytelling. Key Topics Covered: Emad's journey from a dyslexic, first-generation college student to an acclaimed educator and author The role mentors played in redirecting his life at critical moments How AI and competency-based learning can level the playing field in education COVID's impact on young people's social skills and mental health — and how AI can help The power of vulnerability and storytelling as tools for human connection Using AI to enhance (not replace) the storytelling experience The "Choose Your Own Adventure" metaphor for navigating an AI-driven future Accessibility of technology and its potential to celebrate culture and community Notable Quotes: "It took a vice principal at a high school to see something in me and refuse to give up on me." "I would say I'm a storyteller… I know my story more than anybody else." "When you allow people to be vulnerable, they take advantage of it right away." "I think with the resources available, they can choose their own adventure." "There's a sense of fear that exists, and it's natural… but there also needs to be a sense of opportunity." Guest Bio: Emad Rahim was born in a Cambodian concentration camp during the Khmer Rouge Genocide and arrived in Brooklyn as a stateless refugee in the 1980s. Once a dyslexic student who barely graduated high school, he went on to earn three doctorates, become a Fulbright Scholar, TEDx speaker, and college dean. He is an award-winning educator, acclaimed author, and globally recognized motivational speaker, profiled in Forbes, HuffPost, StoryCorps, and PBS.