The Talent Lab Podcast

Breaking Opportunity Embargoes in EdTech w/ Camelback Ventures CEO, Shawna Young

In this inspiring episode of the Talent Lab Solutions EdTech Insights Series, we sit down with Shawna Young, CEO of Camelback Ventures, to explore her remarkable 25-year journey from science teacher in North Carolina to leading one of the most impactful organizations supporting entrepreneurs of color in education. With over 200 entrepreneurs supported, $9 million in early capital deployed, and $365 million in follow-on funding generated, Camelback Ventures is proving that when you invest in entrepreneurs closest to the problems, transformative solutions emerge. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or ecosystem builder, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and inspire you to think differently about who should be empowered to build the future of education. Get full access to The Talent Lab at talentlabsolutions.substack.com/subscribe [https://talentlabsolutions.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Micro Schools, Mega Questions: AI and The Future of Education

From Central Park’s North Meadow, join Michael and Chris as they explore how AI will transform classrooms. Topics include the promise and limitations of micro schools like Alpha School, why in-person learning still beats remote instruction, the brewing battles over school choice and vouchers, and their wildest predictions for education’s future. Get full access to The Talent Lab at talentlabsolutions.substack.com/subscribe [https://talentlabsolutions.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

The Power of Partnerships in EdTech

In this episode of the Talent Labs Podcast EdTech Insights Series, we’re joined by Sach Siriwardane, former Associate Director of Strategic Partnerships at Guild Education, who helped lead Guild’s groundbreaking collaboration with Team USA to support Olympic and Paralympic athletes in their education and career transitions. Sach shares an insider perspective on what makes partnerships truly work — from aligning missions to navigating challenges in a rapidly shifting EdTech landscape. We unpack how Guild built partnerships that scaled access, improved learner outcomes, and shaped the future of upskilling. You’ll hear about: * The story behind Guild’s partnership with the U.S. Olympic team * Why education benefits often fail — and how Guild reimagined them * What defines a “true” partnership in the EdTech ecosystem * The future of upskilling, workforce learning, and cross-sector collaboration Whether you work in higher ed, workforce development, or EdTech strategy, this conversation offers practical lessons on building impactful, mission-driven partnerships. Guest: Sach Siriwardane began his career in consulting, before joining Guild, a (now) Series-F EdTech unicorn, where he worked across go-to-market and strategic partnerships teams. During that time, he helped secure enterprise clients, shape commercial strategy, and support impact-oriented growth. Most recently, he completed his MBA at Oxford and will be joining an early-stage AI startup to help lead their GTM work in EMEA. Get full access to The Talent Lab at talentlabsolutions.substack.com/subscribe [https://talentlabsolutions.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

The Rise and Fall of 2U — Insights from an Insider with Poonam Ribadia

In this episode, we sit down with Poonam Ribadia, who spent nearly eight years at 2U, most recently as a Partnerships and Customer Success Manager. Poonam offers a candid, insider’s perspective on 2U’s journey — from its early strengths and value proposition to the challenges that came with scale, shifting strategy, and the high-profile edX acquisition. We explore what 2U did well, where it struggled, and what lessons other EdTech companies can take away. Whether you’re an EdTech professional, a university partner, or simply curious about the dynamics of scaling education companies, this episode offers valuable insights into the opportunities and pitfalls of the industry. Edited by: Glyvolner Gabriel Get full access to The Talent Lab at talentlabsolutions.substack.com/subscribe [https://talentlabsolutions.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Meet the Founders w/ Michael Oppong and Chris Blackett

Join hosts Michael and Chris as they kick off The Talent Labs Podcast by sharing their personal journeys into education. They talk about their transformative time as Teach for America corps members, their first jobs after teaching, and navigating tech layoffs. Edited by: Glyvolner Gabriel Get full access to The Talent Lab at talentlabsolutions.substack.com/subscribe [https://talentlabsolutions.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]