Episode 317: Amber Ivey

Episode 317: Why Ethics Must Lead Our AI Conversations with Amber IveyIn this powerful episode of My EdTech Life, I sit down with Amber Ivey—data expert and host of the AI for Kids podcast—to unpack one of the most urgent topics in the world of AI: ethics.Amber shares how her journey in government data and policy led her to become a passionate advocate for AI literacy among kids. From her edutainment platform AiDigiTales to her bestselling children's book AI Meets AI, Amber is on a mission to simplify AI and empower the next generation to become creators, not just consumers.We get real about bias in AI, how large language models fall short for diverse populations, and why representation—and ethical design—matters now more than ever. Amber doesn’t just talk tech—she breaks it down in a way that’s simple, accessible, and human-centered.🎧 Whether you're a parent, teacher, tech leader, or cautious advocate like me, this episode will challenge and inspire you to think more critically about the tools we’re putting in front of our kids—and who’s building them.👇 Timestamps 00:00 – Intro and shoutout to our sponsor, Book Creator 01:45 – Welcoming Amber Ivey to the show 03:00 – Amber’s journey: From government data to AI for kids 06:24 – Helping kids become AI-literate in a tech-first world 09:00 – How data work shaped Amber’s approach to simplifying AI 12:00 – Using the KISS philosophy: Keep it simple and human 15:35 – The fear-based messaging around AI adoption 17:00 – Why kids need to understand AI through their passions 20:00 – How AiDigiTales was born and the power of edutainment 23:30 – Access, equity, and designing AI literacy for all zip codes 25:50 – Breaking down LLMs and algorithms for kids 28:00 – Building podcast episodes for kids and teachers 31:30 – Keeping learners engaged with sound and storytelling 33:00 – Addressing the ethics of AI—early and often 35:00 – Real talk about bias, language, and who AI is leaving out 38:20 – Empowering kids to be at the table 41:00 – Amber’s AI kryptonite and why it’s okay to not know every tool 42:20 – The billboard message she’d share with the world 43:14 – Who Amber would trade places with for a day (you’ll love it) 45:00 – Final reflections and gratitude💡 Key Topics CoveredAI literacy for kidsEthics in AI developmentData-driven storytellingSimplifying complex techEdTech equityThe importance of diverAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myedtechlife.substack.com