That's the IDEA!
A podcast with Don Sturm & Stefanie Crawford
ABOUT
That’s the IDEA! is the official podcast of the Illinois Digital Educators Alliance. In each episode, we dive into fresh perspectives and innovative ideas with guests who challenge conventional thinking. Whether you're an educator, leader, or lifelong learner, our conversations will inspire you to explore new approaches and take bold steps in your practice. Tune in, get curious, and discover the next great idea that could transform the way you think and work!
Recent Episodes
Sitting Down with Kunal Dalal
Join Don and Stefanie as they sit down with Kunal Dalal, Monday’s IDEAcon keynote speaker. Kunal is a former teacher and principal turned AI thinker and builder. Kunal shares how his work with AI began through parenting, grew through student and district partnerships, and continues to challenge how we think about learning, creativity, and responsibility in a rapidly changing world. This conversation is reflective, practical, and future focused, and like always, there is curiosity, honesty, and plenty of laughter along the way.
January 21, 2026 50 min 38 sec
Sitting Down with Wunneanatsu Lamb-Cason
In this episode of That’s the Idea, Don and Stefanie sit down with Wunneanatsu Lamb-Cason, the first Indigenous educator named Gilder Lehrman National History Teacher of the Year. Wunneanatsu shares her journey from the high school history classroom to Brown University, reflects on the power of local and inclusive history, and challenges us to rethink whose stories get told and how. This conversation is thoughtful, honest, and energizing, with practical ideas for teaching complex history in ways that help every student feel seen, heard, and curious, and like always, there’s no shortage of laughter.
January 14, 2026 | 42 min 28 sec
Sitting Down with Dr. Matt Farber
Join Don and Stefanie as they sit down with Matt Farber, associate professor at the University of Northern Colorado and longtime voice in game-based learning. Matt shares how his path from middle school social studies teacher to researcher led him deeper into play, games, and social emotional learning; explores connections between films, podcasts, books, and student literacy; and gives listeners a preview of what IDEAcon 2026 attendees can expect to learn with him in February.
January 7, 2026 | 46 min 57 sec
