Marketing and Education

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education [https://www.leoniconsultinggroup.com/all-things-marketing-education-podcast], Elana Leoni sits down with Keith Krueger, CEO of CoSN [https://www.cosn.org/] (Consortium for School Networking), to unpack the biggest takeaways from CoSN’s 2025 State of EdTech District Leadership report [https://www.cosn.org/edtech-topics/state-of-edtech-leadership/]. With over three decades of experience leading conversations around technology in education, Keith offers a grounded, systems-level view of where K–12 technology leadership is headed. From the rise of AI to the persistent gaps in cybersecurity readiness, Keith shares what’s keeping CTOs up at night—and where they see real opportunity for change. Together, Elana and Keith explore: * Why 91% of EdTech leaders now sit at the decision-making table and what that means for vendors * The dramatic rise of generative AI as the #1 tech priority, even as 27% of districts still lack a defined approach [https://www.cosn.org/edtech-topics/state-of-edtech-leadership/] * Why most districts are underestimating major cybersecurity threats, despite being the #1 target for ransomware * How workforce shifts are changing the makeup of EdTech leadership (and how still to communicate with buyers) * What it really looks like to be a trusted thought partner, not just a vendor on the exhibit floor This episode offers essential context for anyone working to align technology solutions with the real-world needs of school and district leaders. Keith shares not only what the data says, but how it feels on the ground, with honest insights about policy, pressure, and the practical realities of K–12 tech leadership in 2025. 🎧 Plus: Keith shares his favorite way to reset after a long day (spoiler: it involves an e-bike and a good podcast). Mentioned in this episode: Level Up Your Education Brand on LinkedIn— in Less Than 5 Hours a Week A self-paced course built for busy education leaders, marketers, and EdTech entrepreneurs who want real results for their LinkedIn Company Page, without overwhelm.

Jacob Kantor (aka the Chief DODO) joins Elana to share how EdTech teams can earn trust—not just attention—by leading with empathy, listening well, and following up without selling. Packed with honest advice for anyone trying to build real relationships with school districts. Check out the LinkedIn course [https://www.leoniconsultinggroup.com/level-up-on-linkedin]. Read the episode show notes [https://www.leoniconsultinggroup.com/podcasts/what-it-takes-to-build-district-relationships-that-last]. Mentioned in this episode: Level Up Your Education Brand on LinkedIn— in Less Than 5 Hours a Week A self-paced course built for busy education leaders, marketers, and EdTech entrepreneurs who want real results for their LinkedIn Company Page, without overwhelm.

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana sits down with Jeremy Dulle, Founder and President of Spring Rock Partners. With over 25 years of experience as a growth strategist, go-to-market advisor, and business developer, Jeremy brings a rare blend of EdTech expertise and Fortune 500 perspective to the table. As funding tightens and districts face mounting pressure to streamline their tech stacks, EdTech companies must prove their value—fast. Jeremy shares practical, hard-earned insights on what sustainable growth looks like in today’s education landscape. Together, Elana and Jeremy explore: * The unique complexities of selling to school districts—and how to navigate them * Why implementation is just as important as product innovation * Common missteps EdTech companies make (especially when entering the space) * What educators really care about—and how to earn their trust * How to align business goals with district outcomes, not just flashy features This conversation is a must-listen for EdTech leaders who want to build not just a product—but a true partnership with schools. > “If you're not tracking usage and providing impact, you're making it easy for districts to cut you.” – Jeremy Dulle Here’s the full episode Show notes [https://www.leoniconsultinggroup.com/podcasts/what-districts-actually-want-from-edtech-partners].

In this episode of All Things Marketing and Education, Elana Leoni sits down with Hallie Smith [http://linkedin.com/in/hallie-smith-68a5052/], a seasoned EdTech leader, former educator, and now fractional marketing advisor. Hallie brings her full-circle journey—from early EdTech roles to speech pathology in public schools, and back into EdTech—to unpack the evolving challenges and opportunities in education marketing today. Together, Elana and Hallie explore: * The surprising trajectory from EdTech to the classroom—and back again * Why it's getting harder to market to educators, and what to do about it * The crucial difference between marketing to educators and with them * How AI and funding shifts are disrupting the EdTech landscape * Common marketing mistakes EdTech companies make (and how to fix them) * Tactical advice on crafting a marketing plan that actually aligns with your business goals This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to make meaningful, measurable impact in education—whether you’re new to the space or a seasoned pro. 🎧 Plus: Hallie’s refreshingly honest answer to what really helps her recharge in the face of industry burnout. Here’s the rest of Hallie's show notes [https://www.leoniconsultinggroup.com/podcasts/edtech-marketing-plans-in-a-changing-landscape].

Q2 is here—and it’s a whirlwind. In this timely episode, Elana Leoni, CEO of Leoni Consulting Group, and Senior Social Media Manager Hillary Trussell break down everything education marketers need to know right now: from federal budget cuts and district layoffs to the impact of AI, shifting conversations in education’s key phrases, and tightening sales cycles. They also dig into key Q2 events like ASU+GSV, NSBA, and ISTE, plus can’t-miss opportunities like Teacher Appreciation Month and graduation season. Whether you're planning campaigns or prepping your booth, this is your go-to guide for staying relevant, building trust, and getting results. Read the rest of the show notes here [https://www.leoniconsultinggroup.com/podcasts/q2-2025-edtech-marketing].