In the first episode of The Education Equation, host Dan Cox sits down with Jesper Mårtensson, Founder and CEO of Mathleaks360, to explore the personal experiences, entrepreneurial journey, and long-term vision behind one of the world's leading mathematics learning platforms. Jesper reflects on how his own struggles with math instruction inspired him to create a solution that helps students move beyond simply finding the correct answer to truly understanding mathematical concepts. What began as a simple idea to support Swedish students has grown into a platform used by millions of learners across the globe.
Jesper shares the evolution of Mathleaks360 over the past 14 years, from its early consumer-focused mobile app to a comprehensive platform that now partners with schools and districts. The conversation examines the differences between math education in Sweden and the United States, the importance of student motivation, and why helping learners understand the purpose behind mathematics is just as important as mastering the content itself. Along the way, Jesper explains how authentic learning experiences, consistency in instruction, and high-quality educational resources can build both confidence and deeper mathematical thinking.
The episode also takes a thoughtful look at artificial intelligence in education. Rather than viewing AI as something to fear, Jesper encourages educators to understand how it is built and how different approaches can dramatically impact classroom outcomes. He explains why Mathleaks360 invested years into developing its own AI models instead of relying on existing large language models, and why he believes technology should strengthen great teaching rather than replace it. For school leaders navigating an increasingly complex educational landscape, this conversation offers valuable insights into innovation, leadership, and the future of mathematics education.
Key Moments
01:40 Why Mathleaks360 Exists Beyond Finding the Right Answer
05:26 Turning Personal Frustration into an Education Company
08:32 Growing to Reach Nearly Half of Sweden's High School Students
10:28 Building the First Version of the Mathleaks360 Platform
17:34 Helping Students Understand Why Math Matters
19:16 What Jesper Learned from the U.S. EdTech Market
22:39 Building AI from the Ground Up Over Fourteen Years
26:37 Why Schools Shouldn't Fear Artificial Intelligence
30:43 Partnering with Schools Instead of Selling to Them
37:44 The AI Question Every Superintendent Should Be Asking
Why You'll Love This Episode
This opening episode introduces the vision behind The Education Equation through the story of a founder who transformed his own educational struggles into a platform serving millions of students worldwide. Jesper Mårtensson offers an honest look at entrepreneurship, innovation, and the patience required to build technology that genuinely improves learning rather than simply following industry trends.
Connect with Jesper Mårtensson, Founder and CEO of Mathleaks
Website: https://mathleaks.com/study
LinkedIn: https://se.linkedin.com/in/jesper-m%C3%A5rtensson-76519b50
Connect with Dan Cox
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-w-cox-32266892
Connect with Mathleaks
Website: https://mathleaks.com/study
About The Education Equation
The Education Equation explores the ideas, innovations, and leadership shaping the future of mathematics education. The podcast brings together education leaders, district decision makers, researchers, and innovators to discuss how schools can strengthen math instruction, better support teachers, and help every student build confidence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
Subscribe & Listen
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to The Education Equation for more conversations with education leaders and innovators who are rethinking what's possible in mathematics education.
