In this episode of Capital Class, Strategos Partner Adam Giery sits down with Julia Rafal-Baer, CEO and Co-Founder of ILO Group, for a grounded conversation about leadership, systems change, and the future of education in an era defined by complexity. Drawing on two decades of experience spanning the classroom, state government, philanthropy, and national policy, Julia offers a rare, inside look at what it truly takes to lead education systems today.

The conversation begins with a bold and hopeful premise. While headlines often focus on the crisis, Julia makes the case that the real story is the strength of today’s education leaders. As power shifts toward states and districts, the demand has moved beyond vision and communication to execution, operations, and community trust. Julia explains why this moment requires a new kind of leader, one who can navigate politics, technology, finance, and human relationships simultaneously.

Adam and Julia explore the rise of artificial intelligence in education and why leadership, not technology, must be in the driver’s seat. Julia shares how ILO Group anticipated this shift, convening system leaders early to move past hype and toward ethical, operationally sound AI adoption that reduces administrative burden while preserving what matters most: human connection and judgment.

The episode also traces Julia’s personal journey, from a pivotal moment as a special education teacher in the Bronx to founding organizations that now shape national leadership pipelines, particularly for women. Throughout, Julia returns to a central theme: sustainable change happens when leaders are supported, not isolated, and when systems are built to endure beyond any one individual.

Timestamps:

04:55 "Leadership Challenges in AI Era"

09:19 "Broadening Leadership Frameworks Through AI"

12:15 AI Leadership and Strategic Vision

13:55 AI Streamlining Education Processes

19:45 AI Accountability and Oversight Intensifies

23:59 Passion for Education and Leadership

27:36 Building Frameworks for Leadership Communities

30:52 Scaling While Maintaining Quality Culture

33:09 "Leadership, Pressure, and Partnerships"

35:13 "Family, Skiing, and Vermont Adventures"

38:21 "Building Durable, Scalable System Change"

Connect with Julia Rafal-Baer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrafal

Website: https://www.ilogroup.com/