Episode 12 - 2Gen Learning Podcast - Then and Now? Looking Back to Look Forward

2Gen Learning Podcast

In this insightful episode of the 2Gen Learning Podcast, our two hosts, Mike Cobb (Gen Xer) and Logan Birgenheier (Millennial)—reconnect to reflect on their shared journey in education that began in Saudi Arabia and continues to evolve in dynamic ways around the world.

They explore how their generational differences often sparked new perspectives, especially when confronting the shifting landscape of learning, leadership, and technology. One host now works across U.S. campuses as a strategic consultant, while the other leads international project development and market analysis for global schools.

🎯 Key Themes Explored:

• 🧭 The Shift from School-Based Leadership to System-Level Strategy
  How stepping away from daily school life brings new insights—and challenges.
• 🤝 What We Miss Most
  The joy, chaos, and community of being on campus full-time, and how that fuels the passion for impact.
• ⚙️ The Beauty of Decision-Making
  Reflections on the fast-paced nature of leadership in schools vs. the slower, strategic tempo of consultancy.
• 🤖 Honoring the Proven While Embracing the New
  Balancing foundational educational practices with the rise of emerging technologies like AI.
• 🌍 Global Perspectives on Innovation
  What international schools are doing differently—and what we can learn from them.
• 🕰️ Then and Now: A Cross-Generational Look at Education & Culture
  In a lighthearted and nostalgic segment, the hosts compare life in the classroom and beyond—from the 1970s and 1990s to today—highlighting how generational experiences have shaped their views on learning and leadership.

  Technology in School:
  📽️ Gen X had film strips and overhead projectors
  💾 Millennials had computer labs and floppy disks
  🤖 Today’s learners are exploring AI tools, VR, and personalized apps

  Communication:
  ☎️ From landlines and handwritten notes
  💻 To instant messaging and early email
  🌍 To global collaboration on WhatsApp, Slack, and Teams

  Student Life:
  🧢 Walkmans and chalkboards
  📟 MP3 players and themed binders
  🎧 Streaming playlists and mindfulness zones

  This segment brings humor, heart, and perspective—reminding us how much has changed, and how much still connects us across generations.

Whether you're a lifelong educator, a curious futurist, or someone navigating the education sector in transition, this conversation offers inspiration, wisdom, and some well-earned laughter between friends dedicated to the future of learning.