Our goal is to foster a generation of independent thinkers.

We do this by providing unbiased, media rich content and dynamic teaching methods to help educators connect with and motivate digitally-savvy students. In other words, we help teachers teach students how to think–not what to think. The result is self-governing students who make up their own minds about complex issues.

Funding

Poptential™ is a subsidiary of Certell, Inc. and is funded by donors who believe all teachers and students should have access to quality curriculum. Our donors do not influence or control the content that we produce and distribute.

Leadership

  • Fred Franson, Co-founder and CEO

    Fred Fransen, Co-founder and CEO

    Fred’s career has been dedicated to improving the ability of people around the world to live prosperous and free lives by increasing their educational opportunities. Fred earned a Ph.D. in Social Thought from University of Chicago.

  • Mike Lindell, Chief Operating Officer

    Mike Lindell, Chief Operating Officer

    Mike has spent nearly two decades helping educational and nonprofit organizations grow. Mike earned a bachelor’s degree from the Indiana University School of Business.

  • Lisa Roberts, Senior Vice President of Initiatives

    Lisa Roberts, Senior Vice President of Initiatives

    Lisa has spent her career guiding fundraising and development for nonprofits. An adjunct professor at Indian River State College, Lisa earned an MBA from Jacksonville University and a bachelor’s degree from University of North Florida.

  • Esteban Gonzalez, Economist, Curriculum, Outreach

    Esteban Gonzalez, Economist, Curriculum, Outreach

    Esteban serves as Certell’s economics curriculum expert. Based in Indiana and Mexico City, Esteban earned a master’s degree in political economy from King’s College, London.

  • Julie Smitherman, Director of Content Management

    Julie Smitherman, Director of Content Management

    Julie was a high school social studies teacher for eight years before joining Certell to help craft its social studies curriculum. Julie earned a master’s degree in economics from George Mason University, and a bachelor’s degree in social studies teacher education from Purdue University.