The past few years in education have been quite eventful. From the shift to virtual learning during the pandemic and the brief yet disruptive trend of "devious licks" to the rise of AI-assisted cheating, teachers have shown a lot of resilience in these challenging times. One thing is for certain: as education evolves, it is crucial for educators to have access to resources that help them adapt and thrive in the classroom. Luckily, a new medium for sharing information and resources and providing entertainment has emerged… Podcasts!
Considering that close to 70 million people listened to podcasts in 2023, it is no surprise that podcasts have become a great tool for teachers looking for professional development. They provide fresh perspectives on improving teaching methods, integrating the latest educational technologies, and dealing with everyday challenges in education. Whether you're exploring effective classroom strategies, the latest research, or how to align education with industry needs, podcasts provide a flexible and easy-to-access platform for growth. Check out our top 7 podcast picks for 2024 that every teacher should tune into to stay informed and inspired.
Best Podcasts for K12 Education and Pedagogy
Cult of Pedagogy
The Cult of Pedagogy Podcast, hosted by Jennifer Gonzalez, is a fantastic resource for teachers looking to make a difference in the classroom and improve their teaching practices with innovative teaching strategies. This podcast for teachers blends research-backed insights with practical tips that can be used in various educational settings. Gonzalez, who has been both a middle school teacher and a college instructor, aims to give teachers the tools to engage students and create a positive learning environment.
Topics Covered
- Teaching Strategies: Creative ways to engage students and improve learning outcomes.
- Classroom Management: Tips for keeping things orderly and promoting a productive classroom environment.
- Technology in Education: How to effectively integrate technology into your teaching.
- Social Issues in Education: Talks on equity, inclusion, and the social dynamics that impact classrooms.
Notable Guests
The podcast features a range of guests, including seasoned educators, authors, and education experts, who share their insights and experiences, adding diverse perspectives to the discussions.
- Sarah Fine, co-author of "In Search of Deeper Learning," discusses deeper learning and how teachers can implement it in their classrooms.
- Sarah Zerwin, author of "Point-Less," talks about moving away from traditional grading.
- Zaretta Hammond, author of "Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain," shares insights on creating a culturally responsive classroom.
Who Would Benefit
This podcast is especially great for:
- New Teachers: Those just starting out can get practical advice and insights to tackle teaching challenges.
- Experienced Educators: Veteran teachers who want to refresh their strategies and stay up-to-date with current trends.
- School Leaders: Looking to enhance professional development for teachers and foster a culture of innovation.
The Creative Classroom with John Spencer
The Creative Classroom with John Spencer is a podcast that explores new teaching practices that boost creativity and design thinking in education. Hosted by John Spencer, a passionate educator and creative learning advocate, the podcast covers different teaching methods that get students thinking critically and creatively. Each episode offers conversations designed to inspire teachers to turn their classrooms into lively spaces where creativity thrives.
Topics Covered
- Creativity in Education: Tips for weaving creativity into lesson plans and classroom fun.
- Design Thinking: How design thinking can supercharge students' problem-solving skills.
- Project-Based Learning: Hands-on ways to bring project-based learning into various subjects.
- Social-Emotional Learning: Techniques to nurture students' social and emotional growth through creative activities.
- Neurodiversity: Embracing learning differences to build inclusive classrooms.
Notable Guests
- Samantha Marsden shares how drama and improv can boost students' creative confidence and communication.
- Dr. Katie Novak, a UDL expert, offers advice on making learning accessible for everyone.
- Carl Azuz discusses media literacy and teaching students to critically engage with current events in today's tech-savvy world.
Who Would Benefit
The Creative Classroom podcast is perfect for:
- K-12 Teachers: Searching for fun ways to spark creativity and engagement using innovative teaching strategies.
- Education Leaders: Aiming to adopt creative teaching practices across their schools.
- Teacher Educators: Looking to inspire future educators with fresh and exciting teaching ideas.
- Those interested in student psychology: Exploring how creativity and diverse teaching methods can influence student learning and development.
Best Podcast for Career and Technical Education (CTE)
The TechEd Podcast
The TechEd Podcast, hosted by Matt Kirchner, focuses on bridging the gap between technical education and the modern workforce. It provides educators with insights into how to prepare students for high-demand careers in technology and skilled trades. Each episode features interviews with leaders from education, industry, and government, offering a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of career and technical education and workforce development.
Topics Covered
- Industry Trends: Discussions on the latest technological advancements and their implications for education and workforce training.
- Skills Development: Insights into the competencies and skills that employers are seeking from graduates in STEM and technical fields.
- Career Pathways: Exploring various career opportunities in technical education and how schools can better prepare students for these paths.
- Collaboration Between Education and Industry: Strategies for creating effective partnerships that benefit both students and employers.
Notable Guests
- Alan Sitomer, founder and CEO of Mastery Coding, talked about how esports can help students build valuable skills for future careers.
- Dr. Rich Barnhouse, president of Waukesha County Technical College, talked about harnessing artificial intelligence in education to empower students for the workforce.
- Cynthia Hutchison, CEO of the US Center for Advanced Manufacturing, shared insights on manufacturing, technology adoption, and inclusivity in the workforce
Who Would Benefit
The TechEd Podcast is particularly beneficial for:
- Educators: Teachers and administrators looking to enhance their technical education programs and align them with industry needs.
- Career Advisors: Professionals guiding students in their career paths, especially in STEM and skilled trades.
- Industry Leaders: Employers seeking to understand the educational landscape and how to better collaborate with schools to develop a skilled workforce.
Best Short-Form Podcasts for Busy Educators
The 10-Minute Teacher Podcast
The 10-Minute Teacher Podcast, hosted by Vicki Davis (also known as the Cool Cat Teacher), is a fast-paced show designed to provide busy educators with quick bursts of inspiration and practical ideas they can implement right away. Each episode features interviews with amazing teachers and education experts from around the world, sharing their insights and strategies on a variety of topics.
Topics Covered
- Innovative Teaching Strategies: Discover new ways to engage students and make learning fun.
- Edtech Tools: Learn about the latest educational technology tools and how to use them effectively.
- Thought Leadership: Hear from top researchers and authors on the latest trends and best practices in education.
- Practical Ideas: Gain 5 quick, actionable ideas you can use in your classroom immediately.
Notable Guests
- Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson discussed strategies for differentiating math instruction in the elementary classroom.
- Dr. Liz Kolb explained how to use the Triple E Framework for evaluating educational technology.
Who Would Benefit
The 10-Minute Teacher Podcast is ideal for:
- K-12 Teachers: Looking for quick, practical ideas to improve their teaching practice.
- Administrators and Leaders: Interested in learning about innovative strategies and best practices to share with their teams.
EdTech Bites
EdTech Bites is a unique podcast that combines two seemingly unrelated topics: educational technology (EdTech) and food. Hosted by Gabriel Carrillo, this show offers a fresh perspective on the latest trends and innovations in educational technology while incorporating a culinary twist. As a teacher, you'll find valuable insights into how technology can enhance your classroom experience, coupled with engaging discussions about food that add a fun and relatable element to the content.
Topics Covered
- EdTech Tools: Practical applications and innovative teaching strategies using technology.
- Curriculum Integration: Using digital resources effectively in educational programs.
- Educator Insights: Personal experiences and success stories related to food and education.
Notable Guests and Topics
While specific guest information is not provided in the search results, based on the podcast's description, you might expect to hear from:
- Destiny Wagner and Kristofer Thurston, co-founders of The EdTech Nerds, discuss their book "The Daily Planner For The Mindful Teacher." Recorded live at ISTE 2024, they share strategies for educators to manage their time effectively while promoting mindfulness and well-being in the teaching profession. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of teacher well-being and combating burnout.
- Dr. Matthew Joseph talks about X-Factor EDU, a platform he founded to share voices and stories in education. He discusses his passion for helping others publish their stories and the impact of storytelling in educational contexts. This episode highlights the significance of sharing experiences to inspire and empower educators
Who Would Benefit Most
This podcast would be particularly beneficial for:
- K-12 teachers looking to enhance their tech skills
- School administrators seeking to implement new technologies
- EdTech enthusiasts interested in the latest trends
Podcasts for Teacher Well-being and Professional Growth
Truth for Teachers Podcast
The Truth for Teachers Podcast, hosted by Angela Watson, is here to support and encourage educators with practical advice. Focusing on both personal and professional growth, it helps teachers tackle the challenges of their job while keeping a positive mindset. Each episode offers up actionable tips and insights to inspire teachers to enhance their teaching practices and well-being.
Topics Covered
- Work-Life Balance: Strategies for managing time and energy to prevent burnout.
- Classroom Management: Tips for creating a positive classroom environment and engaging students effectively.
- Mindset and Motivation: Encouragement and techniques to maintain a positive outlook and motivation throughout the school year.
- Teaching Strategies: Innovative methods and best practices for enhancing student learning and engagement.
- Social-Emotional Learning: Insights into supporting students' social and emotional needs in the classroom.
Notable Guests
- Dr. Jennifer Gonzalez discussed the importance of culturally responsive teaching and how to implement it effectively in classrooms.
Who Would Benefit
The Truth for Teachers Podcast is particularly beneficial for:
- K-12 Teachers: Looking for practical advice and support to enhance their teaching practices and personal well-being.
- New Educators: Seeking guidance and encouragement as they navigate the early stages of their teaching careers.
- Education Leaders: Interested in understanding the challenges teachers face and how to support them effectively.
Best Podcasts for STEM Education
Mr Barton Maths Podcast
The Mr Barton Maths Podcast, hosted by Craig Barton, is an excellent resource for math teachers. Through chats with a variety of guests including educators and researchers, the podcast covers new teaching methods, educational research, and practical strategies for improving math instruction.
Topics Covered
- Teaching Strategies: Effective methods for teaching mathematics, including the use of worked examples and formative assessment techniques.
- Educational Research: Discussions on the latest findings in cognitive science and how they can be applied to math teaching.
- Curriculum Development: Insights into designing and implementing a comprehensive math curriculum.
- Classroom Management: Techniques for creating a positive learning environment that encourages student engagement.
Notable Guests
- Tom Sherrington, an experienced educator and author of The Learning Rainforest, discusses his insights from different school environments, effective teaching strategies, lesson observation, and the importance of developing student independence, offering practical takeaways for educators at all levels.
- Bruno Reddy, former Head of Maths at King Solomon Academy and creator of Times Table Rockstars, discusses his approaches to lesson planning, the importance of school culture in behavior management, and his views on mastery and mixed attainment classes.
Who Would Benefit
The Mr Barton Maths Podcast is particularly beneficial for:
- Math Teachers: Looking for practical tips and innovative strategies to enhance their teaching practices.
- Educational Leaders: Seeking insights into effective math instruction and curriculum development.
Best Podcast about Education Technology
The Edtech Podcast
The Edtech Podcast, hosted by Professor Rose Luckin, focuses on building a connection between education and technology through storytelling, aiming for better innovation and impact. It includes chats with a variety of guests, including education leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and edtech experts. By diving into the promise and potential of edtech, the podcast offers valuable insights and strategies for educators wanting to integrate technology effectively into their teaching.
Topics Covered
- AI in Education: Examining how AI can be used to enhance learning outcomes and prepare students for the future.
- Digital Transformation in Schools: Exploring the evolving demands of the classroom and strategies for implementing digital tools and professional development for teachers.
- Staying Curious About Science: Discussing ways to retain and reengage students' curiosity about science throughout their lives.
Notable Guests
The podcast hosts a variety of guests from different sectors of the education and technology landscape. Some notable guests include:
- Rajeshwari Iyer, an expert in educational technology and innovation, discussed the practical applications of technology in learning environments.
- Abby Gilbert, a leader in educational development, shared insights on curriculum design and technology integration.
- Rachel Romer Carlson, CEO of Guild Education, discussed the future of work and the role of education in workforce development.
Who Would Benefit
The Edtech Podcast is particularly beneficial for:
- Education Leaders: Gain insights into the latest trends and best practices in educational technology.
- Teachers: Learn how to effectively integrate technology into their teaching practices and stay up-to-date with the evolving demands of the classroom.
- Entrepreneurs and Investors: Understand the needs and perspectives of educators to develop more effective and impactful edtech solutions.
Best Podcast for Esports Educators and Coaches
Careers in Esports Webinar/Podcast
The Careers in Esports podcast, also available in webinar format, is made for educators and students alike. Featuring interviews with guests from a wide range of esports related careers, from pro players and game developers to marketing experts and educators, this podcast is perfect for esports teachers and coaches looking to connect student passion for esports with diverse career pathways.
Topics Covered
- Career progression: How each guest reached their current job, including educational and professional background
- Benefits of esports: How experience in gaming and esports contributed to the development of skills needed for the interviewee's career
- Day in the life: A look at some of the job responsibilities of each guest
Notable Guests
- James Shilkret, Director of Esports at Ubisoft, offers a deep dive into the skills and knowledge that have shaped his career, providing valuable guidance for aspiring esports professionals.
- Sky Kauweloa and Jay Deshong, collegiate directors at University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and Grand Canyon University, provide a unique perspective on the expanding realm of esports careers at the collegiate level and what skills and qualities college esports directors are looking for in their players
- Jake Lyon, former Overwatch League (OWL) player and current OWL analyst for Activision Blizzard, shares his experiences and expertise on how to pursue a career in esports, including career pathways outside of being a pro player, the roles of coaches and analysts, and how esports can be used as a tool for learning and personal growth.
Who Would Benefit
The Careers in Esports podcast is particularly beneficial for:
- Esports Coaches: Learn how to connect students' passion for video games to a diverse range of careers.
- Education Leaders: Learn about the benefits that esports has to offer to K12 students and how it can be leveraged to encourage career exploration in the classroom.
Conclusion
In today's fast-paced educational environment, teachers face challenges that require constant adaptation and growth. We recognize the dedication and hard work that teachers pour into shaping the minds of future generations. With all the lesson planning, grading, and administrative tasks, squeezing in time for personal growth and professional development can feel overwhelming.
Podcasts for teachers offer a practical solution to these challenges, letting educators engage in professional development on their own schedule. By tuning into insightful discussions and curated interviews, teachers can pick up innovative strategies and practical tips that they can integrate into their own teaching practices. Whether it’s during a morning commute or while tackling everyday tasks, podcasts provide a flexible and convenient way to stay updated with the latest research and methodologies in education.
Embracing podcasts as a tool for professional growth doesn’t just boost teachers’ skills—it also builds a sense of community. By connecting with other educators through shared experiences and challenges, teachers can feel supported and inspired. Teachers play a crucial role in our society, and investing time in professional development through podcasts empowers them to keep making a big impact.
