Podcast

Open Insights: An education podcast where innovation meets pragmatism. With interviews that open up the learning community to helpful and humorous insights.

• Innovative AI Strategies in K12 Education with Ryan Smith (Ep. 10)

  Innovative AI Strategies in K12 Education with Ryan Smith Read the full article

  • March 26, 2026

• North Carolina Superintendent Discusses Education Challenges and Opportunities (Ep. 9)

  North Carolina Superintendent Discusses Education Challenges and Opportunities Read the full article

  • March 12, 2026

• Building Strong School Communities Through Open Communication (Ep. 8)

  Building Strong School Communities Through Open Communication Read the full article

  • March 2, 2026

• How Dallas ISD is Changing Education with Data (Ep. 7)

  How Dallas ISD is Changing Education with Data Read the full article

  • October 20, 2025

• Beyond the Diploma: Creating Opportunities for Students (Ep. 6)

  Join us for another episode of the Abre Open Insights podcast! Today, host Zach Vander Veen, Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Abre sits down with David Ritchey, Superintendent of Lamesa ISD, to discuss the challenges and opportunities of educational leadership. David shares his perspective on using data to drive student success, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively, and staying connected with teachers to create a strong school culture. Throughout the conversation, David emphasizes the importance of seeing students as individuals, not just members, and how Lamesa ISD is working to provide opportunities beyond graduation night. He also reflects on the role of leadership in shaping the future of public education and why staying engaged in the classroom is critical to making a lasting impact. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on how data, leadership, and vision can come together to create better outcomes for students. Be sure to like,… Read the full article

  • August 1, 2025

• Empowering Latino Leaders in Education (Ep. 5)

  In this powerful episode of the Abre Podcast, host Zach Vander Veen sits down with Dr. Celina Estrada Thomas, Executive Director of TALAS (Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents). Drawing from her 41 years in education, Dr. Thomas shares her inspiring journey from being the daughter of a migrant worker to becoming a superintendent and now leading TALAS. Dr. Thomas discusses the vital role of TALAS in supporting Latino administrators and addressing the unique needs of Latino students, who now represent 53% of Texas's student population. She offers insights into cultural attitudes toward education, the importance of understanding second language learners, and TALAS's expanding network of regional affiliates. The conversation culminates with a powerful reflection on traditional education structures and the need for more flexible, student-centered approaches. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe! To learn more about Abre: https://abre.com/ About the Guest: Dr. Celina Estrada Thomas is an… Read the full article

  • July 30, 2025

• Unlocking Success Through Strategic School Communication (Ep. 4)

  Tune in for another episode of the Open Insights Podcast! Today, host Zach Vander Veen, Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Abre, sits down with Kristyn Cathey, Chief of Communication & Public Relations at Alief ISD. Kristyn shares insights into the successes and challenges her district faces and the vital role communication plays in managing them. From navigating difficult messages to fostering a strong sense of community, Kristyn offers valuable tips on effective school district communication. Plus, don’t miss an inspiring story to close out the episode—and a delicious dream sponsor you’ll definitely want to hear about. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe! To learn more about Abre: https://abre.com/ About the Guest: Kristyn Cathey is the Chief of Communications for Alief Independent School District (ISD), boasting an impressive track record in educational communications. A native of Port Arthur, Texas, she began her career as the Media Communications Specialist at… Read the full article

  • July 28, 2025

• MTSS and Early Warning: The Importance of Good Data (Ep. 3)

  Education leaders discuss the transformative role of early warning systems and data integration in supporting students, emphasizing the importance of actionable data for targeted interventions and addressing chronic absenteeism to enhance educational outcomes. Read the full article

  • April 10, 2025

• Saving Time, Saving Money, & Enhancing Focus: The Abre Advantage with Loveland City Schools (Ep. 2)

  In this episode we sit down with Dr. Stace Puerta and Adam Samuels of Loveland Schools to discuss how Abre has transformed their district by integrating and replacing multiple platforms into one system. By completing this integration, Loveland has saved time and money while increasing engagement with their families. Read the full article

  • March 15, 2025

• Preparing Del Valle ISD for Growth (Ep. 1)

  In this episode of Open Insights, host Zach Vander Veen sits down with Dr. Matthew Gutierrez to discuss the challenges and strategies involved in transitioning as a superintendent and executive leader. Read the full article

  • February 27, 2025