Optimizing Tech Teams and Strategy in EdTech with Leigh Newsome

In this episode of EdTech Elevated, Lisa March, President and Founder of Partner in Publishing, sits down with Leigh Newsome, Partner at Hoola Hoop and adjunct professor at NYU. They discuss how EdTech companies can navigate the complexities of technology leadership and scale successfully. Leigh shares his journey from Silicon Valley engineer to CEO and advisor, offering valuable insights on optimizing tech teams, managing technical debt, and making strategic decisions that align with a company’s mission and vision.

The conversation explores challenges in outsourcing, the growing role of AI in EdTech, and how to assess and integrate new technologies during mergers and acquisitions. Leigh also highlights the importance of transparent communication between CEOs and CTOs and shares how Hoola Hoop’s multidisciplinary team supports C-level leaders through coaching, due diligence, and tailored advisory services.

Sponsored by Partner in Publishing:

https://partnerinpublishing.com/ 

Bookmarks:

00:06 - Introduction to EdTech Elevated

00:22 - Leigh Newsome's Background and Role

01:31 - Leigh’s journey to Hoola Hoop and CTO Leadership

05:09 - Challenges in Technology Leadership

07:42 - AI’s Impact on EdTech

10:18 - Supporting Pre-Revenue Companies

13:03 - Due Diligence for Investors and M&A

16:45 - Outsourcing and Tech Team Management

19:20 - CEO and CTO Collaboration

25:10 - Hoola Hoop Team Overview

27:12 - Closing Remarks

Resources: 

Leigh Newsome

Lisa March

Hoola Hoop

Partner in Publishing