In this episode of the Boys of EdTech, the crew unpacks what’s actually happening on the ground—from AI overload and vendor noise to what truly cuts through when selling to school districts.

The group breaks down why AI isn’t the differentiator anymore, how districts are thinking about build vs. buy decisions, and what vendors are getting wrong in their outreach. From cold email strategies that actually work to the importance of relationship-building over transactions, this episode is packed with real, tactical advice for edtech founders, sales teams, and anyone trying to navigate the K-12 space.

They also explore what meaningful relationships look like in practice, how to stand out in a crowded market, and why understanding district priorities (down to contracts and funding plans) can make or break your success.

If you're in edtech, business development, or district leadership, this episode delivers unfiltered perspectives from operators who are in the trenches every day.

Connect with the Boyz
Rick Fernandez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rick-fernandez-40692434/
Matthew Millstein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-millstein/
Jacob Kantor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejacobkantor/
Ryan Patenaude: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanpatenaude/
Jeff Piontek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffpiontek/

Key Moments

04:03 Reflecting on conference interactions

07:54 Importance of Learning Efficacy Data

10:07 Casual networking event insights

15:56 Building authentic professional relationships

20:07 Networking strategies at events

22:20 Balancing work and family time

25:16 Tailoring pitches for different personas

30:45 Understanding school funding transparency

33:20 Evaluating client relationships

37:58 Choosing the right business partner

41:28 Allocating education funding strategically

Interested in joining the show? Fill out the form: https://forms.gle/SRVhzpXikBombee38

Join us for our inagruarl episode where the Boyz break down the ASU+GSV Summit, one of the most influential conferences in education technology in the world.

The conversation covers everything from the wild networking opportunities and practical strategies for making the most of your conference experience, to the importance of genuine relationships and being intentional in connecting with leaders, founders, investors, and non-profits. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned pro, you’ll get actionable advice on how to navigate the overwhelming environment, maximize your ROI, avoid “party pipeline,” and focus on lasting connections.

Tune in as the Boyz share their personal stories, pro tips, and what they're excited about for this year’s event, all while keeping it real, relatable, and fun. If you care about the future of edtech, building meaningful relationships, and learning from those who are shaping the space, this episode is for you.

Connect with the Boyz
Rick Fernandez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rick-fernandez-40692434/
Matthew Millstein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-millstein/
Jacob Kantor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejacobkantor/
Ryan Patenaude: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanpatenaude/
Jeff Piontek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffpiontek/

Key Moments
00:00 Big education conference this weekend

03:43 Networking at a unique conference

08:01 ASU conference energy and connections

10:49 Surviving long event days

14:31 Prioritizing key meetings and goals

17:21 Planning for conference success

22:49 Building genuine, deeper connections

26:01 Networking and event strategy

30:09 Balancing a packed schedule

31:04 Navigating events and networking

37:14 Helping startups and sharing advice

38:48 Connecting with AI and LinkedIn network

42:34 Upcoming changes with ASU and BET

45:34 Networking and career opportunities

50:06 Attending conferences for career growth

Interested in joining the show? Let us know: https://forms.gle/SRVhzpXikBombee38