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Hi, I'm John Spencer.

I’m a former middle school teacher and a current full-time professor who is passionate about seeing teachers transform their classrooms into bastions of creativity and wonder. Over the last twenty years, I have written articles, recorded podcast episodes, crafted sketch videos, and designed free resources to help teachers empower students with voice and choice. I’m excited to share what I have learned through my journey of deeper learning!

Let's Connect

Free Resources

As a professor, I regularly interview experts, deconstruct systems, and test out new strategies with current K-12 teachers. My goal is to share what I am learning in my podcast, weekly newsletter, and YouTube channel. I also offer free out-of-the-box downloads for all my subscribers.

Live Sessions

Ready to empower your educators with learning that sticks? Whether you’re looking for engaging keynotes to equip your entire staff, a hands-on workshop to build new skills, or ongoing coaching, I would love to meet with your team to design a customized plan.

On-Demand Learning

Want to take a deeper dive into deeper learning? I’ve written multiple books and crafted on-demand courses to walk you through how to make this a reality. You might also want to join a cohort in the spring.

My Background

I’m a former middle school teacher and current college professor who is passionate about seeing students reach their creative potential. I believe that teachers play a profound role in making this a daily reality. In 2013, I spoke at the White House, sharing a vision for how to empower students to be future-ready in a changing world.

To my core, I believe that deep challenges require deeper learning. This is why I regularly explore research, interviews educators, deconstructs systems, and studies real-world examples of deeper learning. I share these insights in books, blog posts, free resources, animated videos, and podcast episodes.

I am the author of the bestselling books Launch, Empower, and Vintage Innovation, and The A.I. Roadmap, and The Depth Advantage. As a frequent keynote speaker and workshop facilitator, I have delivered professional development in all 50 states (thank you, Delaware, for making that a reality this year) and in Australia, Brazil, Colombia, China, Hong Kong, Ireland, and The Netherlands.

I live in Oregon with my wife and our three teenagers / young adult children and our 2 enormous Great Danes.

Contact Me