May 5, 2026

Navigating Kids, AI & Digital Learning with Merve Lapus: A Tech Reset

Navigating Kids, AI & Digital Learning with Merve Lapus: A Tech Reset
Navigating Kids, AI & Digital Learning with Merve Lapus: A Tech Reset
The Balancing Act
Navigating Kids, AI & Digital Learning with Merve Lapus: A Tech Reset
Apple Podcasts podcast player iconSpotify podcast player iconRSS Feed podcast player iconYouTube podcast player iconiHeartRadio podcast player iconPocketCasts podcast player iconCastbox podcast player iconAmazon Music podcast player iconPandora podcast player iconAudible podcast player iconPodcast Addict podcast player iconGoodpods podcast player iconAudacy podcast player iconDeezer podcast player iconPodchaser podcast player iconCastro podcast player iconOvercast podcast player iconPlayerFM podcast player icon

In this lively episode of The Balancing Act Podcast, Jamie Wanko and Joe Vitale welcome back tech-in-education expert Merve Lapus for a timely “tech reset” conversation that feels equal parts honest, hopeful, and real-life relatable. Together, they unpack how the post-pandemic rush to integrate technology in classrooms didn’t always come with the training or intention needed to make it truly effective—and why it’s time to rethink when tech actually adds value versus when it just adds noise. Merve brings a refreshingly balanced perspective, pushing back on the idea that technology is either all good or all bad, and instead encourages a thoughtful, “scalpel-not-sledgehammer” approach—especially when it comes to student well-being and social media. The conversation also dives into the very real pressures parents feel, with Merve sharing his own experiences navigating his kids’ digital lives and emphasizing the power of open, judgment-free communication. From gaps in everyday life skills to the growing divide between kids and adults in understanding AI, this episode keeps things grounded while looking ahead, reminding listeners that the goal isn’t to fear technology—but to raise humans who know how to use it wisely, creatively, and with confidence.

Season 3 is brought to you by our principal sponsor, Teachers' Insurance Plan. Check out their website below for more information and to get a quote.

http://bit.ly/4mQC27G⁠

Teachers' Insurance Plan: auto insurance that brings exclusive educator savings and exceptional customer care to New Jersey and Pennsylvania educational employees.

Select Episodes from Season 3 sponsored by:

For more information about NJSchoolJobs.com check out their website for up-to-date job postings for teaching, admin, support staff and coaching opportunities.

We want to hear from you! Shoot over an email and say hi: podthebalancingact@gmail.com

Don’t forget to subscribe! Leave us a comment!

Follow

Facebook - podbalact JoeandJamie

Instagram - @podthebalancingact

TikTok - @thebalancingactpodcast

Twitter - @podbalact

Youtube Channel - The Balancing Act - YouTube

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices