Quantum Leap

Hosted by Kiran Kodithala

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143

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Jun 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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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.

March 9, 202623 min

Dr. Jeannie Kim - Leadership, Life & Lessons for the Future

This fireside chat podcast features Dr. Jeannie Kim, a community college leader, discussing the intersection of artificial intelligence, humanity, and leadership in higher education. The conversation explores how educational institutions can navigate rapid technological change while maintaining human connection and addressing the emotional toll on faculty, staff, and students. Themes discussed between N2N's Storyteller in Residence and host of Quantum Leap 2026, Dr. Rod Berger, and Dr. Jeannie Kim. 1. Humanity in an AI-Driven World Dr. Kim and the host bond over being cancer survivors, using this as a lens to discuss facing finality while living in a world of endless possibility Emphasis on maintaining hope and resilience when confronting technological transformation AI should handle mundane tasks so humans can focus on meaningful connections 2. Leadership Challenges in Higher Education Leaders must carefully navigate AI adoption across three groups: early adopters (20%), middle adopters (60%), and resistant "clay layer" (20%) Fear pervades all levels of the organization Success requires vulnerability, storytelling, and emotional connection rather than having all the answers Must move away from "sage on the stage" mentality toward creating organic connections 3. Behind-the-Scenes Struggles Dr. Kim reveals challenges not widely discussed in the popular press: Mental health crisis among administrators, faculty, staff, and students Overwhelming combination of political/social chaos, rapid AI changes, and curriculum redesign Faculty capacity limitations when asked to defend content and completely revise teaching methods Outdated technology (still using 2000s-era tools during COVID in 2020) 4. Practical AI Integration California community colleges provide Google Gemini access to all students and employees Dr. Kim uses AI daily for iterative learning, crafting detailed prompts (sometimes over a page long) Uses paid, encapsulated version for privacy Encourages exploring AI for both professional and personal questions Most popular ChatGPT use: relationship advice/personal therapy 5. Education's Path Forward Must acknowledge "we don't know what we don't know." Avoid one-size-fits-all solutions that plagued previous technology implementations Focus on student-centered values that everyone can rally around Create space for failure and learning while respecting diverse perspectives Regular and substantive faculty-student interaction remains critical 6. New Leadership Skills Needed Spend less time on mundane tasks, more on human connection Create moments where people connect organically Be open to uncomfortable conversations and challenging perspectives Learn something new every day Provide diverse perspectives (example: hosting NYT bestselling author Karen Howe) Notable Quotes: "AI can take care of those things that, quite frankly, I didn't wanna do in the first place." "We don't know what we don't know, and we don't take the time to figure out what we don't know." "It's not a one-size-fits-all" "We need to figure out how to stop being the sage on the stage." This conversation took place at the Quantum Leap 2026 conference, brought to you by End to End and Lightleap AI, focusing on innovation in higher education.

March 3, 202632 min

Behind The Data of Higher Education with Lee Lambert

Lee Lambert is the Chancellor at Foothill-De Anza Community College District and a visionary leader who has served as a senior-level community college executive for more than two decades. Prior to Foothill-De Anza, Lambert served as chancellor of Pima Community College in Tucson, Arizona, where he led a transformation of the college into Centers of Excellence in applied technology, health care, hospitality, information technology and cybersecurity, public safety, and the arts. Lambert is a dynamic advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, student success, and community engagement. He also believes and invests in employee professional development and growth to better serve students and the community. Among Lambert’s many achievements and recognitions, he was the recipient of the Humanitarian Award from the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) awarded him with the Marie Y. Martin CEO of the Year Award, and the National Guard and Reserves of the U.S. named him a Patriotic Employer. Earlier this year, Lee was named Tucson Man of the Year. He currently serves on several committees and boards, including the Advisory Committee of Presidents for ACCT and the National Association of Workforce Boards’ executive committee. He previously served on the American Association of Community Colleges board. In addition to his published writings, Lee is an international and nationally recognized speaker on the future of work and learning. Lee was born in Seoul, South Korea, grew up on three continents, and served in the U.S Army. He received a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts from The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington, and a Juris Doctor degree from Seattle University School of Law.

January 15, 202644 min

AI's Role In Safe Guarding Higher Education with Kiran Kodithala

N2N's founder and CEO, Kiran Kodithala, stops by to level-set the challenges and opportunities AI presents across the higher education landscape.

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