In this episode, host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with Brandon Cardet-Hernandez, Founder and CEO of Medley Learning, to explore how thoughtful technology can expand access for multilingual learners while keeping human connection at the center of learning.
Brandon shares how his own experience as a multilingual learner shaped his career as a special education teacher, principal, district leader, education advisor, and eventually founder. He also explains why years of research on literacy and multilingual learning haven't always translated into classroom practice--and how Medley is working to help close that gap.
Mindy and Brandon also dig into student agency, scaffolding without lowering expectations, the role of assistive technology, and why educators need tools that build their capacity rather than replace their relationships with students.
Key Moments
01:05 Brandon's journey from educator to founder
04:01 Lessons from his first years teaching
08:33 Closing the research-to-practice gap
11:43 How Medley supports multilingual learners
14:42 Giving students more agency
18:00 Creating space for human connection
22:00 Rethinking technology and screen time
24:54 Making grade-level text accessible
27:11 Why all screen time isn't equal
31:40 Brandon's vision for Medley's future
Why You'll Love This Episode
Brandon challenges the idea that supporting multilingual learners means lowering the level of the work. Instead, he shares how the right scaffolds can help students access challenging, grade-level content while building greater independence over time.
For educators and school leaders navigating questions about AI, screen time, multilingual learning, and student support, this episode offers a practical reminder: technology is most powerful when it creates more opportunities for students to learn, connect, and take meaningful risks.
Connect with Brandon Cardet-Hernandez
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandoncardethernandez
Medley Learning: https://www.medleylearning.com/
Follow Us:
Mindy Sjoblom LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sjoblom
OnYourMarkWebsite: https://www.onyourmarkeducation.org/
OnYourMark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyourmark-education
About OnYourMark Podcast
The OnYourMark Podcast is where host Mindy Sjoblom sits down with school system leaders shaping what's possible for early readers. From high-impact tutoring to building trust with families, each episode dives deep into what it really takes to make early literacy work for every child.
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