E78 — Training the Trainers: Building the Next Generation of Teacher Educators (with Tabitha Kidwell)

In this episode of The Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast, Shé and Anna interview Tabitha Kidwell, an esteemed teacher educator, about her research on the preparation and professional development of teacher trainers. The conversation explores various models and approaches for teacher training, the need for formalized support, and the essential skill sets for effective teacher training. The episode also emphasizes the importance of ongoing professional development and the role of professional learning communities in supporting teacher trainers.This episode is a must-listen for anyone leading—or aspiring to lead—professional learning in ELT. Gain insight into how intentional mentorship, structured preparation, and reflective networks can transform teacher development for the better.💡 Reflect with us:What skills or mindsets do new teacher trainers need most?How can institutions better prepare and mentor those who facilitate PD?What forms of teacher learning—beyond workshops—have most influenced your own practice?Contribute to our 2026 Friends of the Podcast episode!🧰 Resources & Tools:I Shouldn’t Have to Fumble My Way Around: Supporting TESOL Teacher Educators Kidwell, T. (2021). Train-the-Trainer Course by TESOL International AssociationThe benefits of formal TESOL training🎙 This episode is sponsored by Ellii: Use code THINKALOUD for 15% off your first membership term. Admins can also request a two-month free trial to pilot Ellii for your program.📚 Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message01:13 Welcome to the Teacher Think Aloud Podcast01:26 Today's Topic: Training Teachers02:43 Meet Tabitha Kidwell03:35 Tabitha's Academic Pet Peeves05:33 Discussing Tabitha's Study08:21 Study Design and Methodology10:43 Central Findings and Reflections13:55 The Importance of Structured Support in TESOL14:38 Essential Skills for Teacher Trainers16:22 Formal Preparation and Induction Programs20:58 Alternative Forms of Teacher Training27:33 Institutional Support for Teacher Educators31:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts#TeacherTraining #TrainingOfTrainers #ELTPodcast #TESOL #TeacherEducators #ProfessionalDevelopment #ReflectivePractice #TeacherThinkAloud #TeacherGrowth #ELTcommunity #EdChat #TeacherPD #MentorshipInELT #TESOLTraining #GlobalEd #TeacherAgency #EFLteachers #ESLteachers