The TechEd Clubhouse

What happens when schools become more focused on answers than thinking?In this episode of The TechEd Clubhouse Podcast, I sit down with educator, nonprofit leader, and author Katie Trowbridge to unpack one of the biggest challenges facing education today: the slow loss of curiosity, creativity, and human connection in classrooms.From AP students trapped in compliance culture to reluctant learners who thrive when given ownership, we explore what deeper thinking actually looks like in real classrooms—not just in theory.Katie shares insights from her work with Curiosity to Create and explains how curiosity, creative thinking, critical thinking, and connection work together to create meaningful learning experiences.We also dive into:Why “right answer culture” is hurting learningThe danger of over-standardized teachingProductive struggle and the fear of failureWhy teams matter more than groupsWhat educators can learn from coaches, band directors, and shop teachersHow relationship-building changes classroom cultureWhy AI-resistant assignments start with better designThe importance of process over productThis episode is packed with practical ideas for teachers, leaders, and anyone trying to create classrooms where students think, connect, and take risks.Key TakeawaysCuriosity must be nurtured intentionally as students get olderCompliance-driven classrooms often suppress creativity and risk-takingProductive struggle is essential for deeper learningReflection is the missing piece in many classroomsTeams build stronger collaboration than temporary “groups”The best learning environments often already exist in music, athletics, and hands-on classroomsAI doesn’t expose cheating problems—it exposes weak assignment designHuman connection is foundational to meaningful learningMentioned in This EpisodeCuriosity to CreateKatie Trowbridge WebsiteLead Boldly, Think DeeplyDeeper Thinking in the ClassroomMemorable Quotes“We have to stop managing tasks and start mentoring thought.” — Katie Trowbridge“We’ve lost the joy of struggle.” — Katie Trowbridge“Kids don’t come to school to watch us work.”“If a chatbot can complete your assignment, that’s a design problem.”Connect with the ShowFollow The TechEd Clubhouse Podcast for conversations around:STEMPBLCreativityAI in educationCuriosity-driven learningPractical classroom innovation

🔥 Episode SummaryMost lessons start the same way:Explain it → practice it → assess it.That sequence feels safe.It’s also the problem.In this episode, I break down why starting with explanation kills thinking—and what to do instead. Across ELA, math, science, and social studies, I show how a simple shift in sequence creates more engagement, better thinking, and real independence… without blowing up your unit plan.This isn’t a new strategy.It’s a different starting point.🎯 What You’ll GetWhy “content first” feels right—but limits thinkingHow AI exposed the difference between compliance and real learningWhat actually happens when you put the problem firstSimple ways to try this tomorrow (no extra prep)🧠 The ShiftDon’t explain first.Start with the problem.Let students wrestle before you rescue.That discomfort?That’s where thinking starts.🛠️ What This Looks Like (Real Classrooms)ELA: Start with a flawed argument → let students find what’s wrongMath: Put the problem up cold → delay the stepsScience: Run the lab first → explain afterSocial Studies: Lead with a primary source → add context secondSame move. Different subjects.🔁 The FrameworkBuild → Think → Reflect (BTR)Build: Do the task before the explanationThink: Add content after students attempt itReflect: Ask what they’d change or do differentlyMiss the last step, and it never sticks.🎯 Try It TuesdayTake one assignment and ask:“Can students complete this without making a single decision?”If yes:Put the problem firstHold the vocabularyEnd with one reflection questionThat’s the shift.💬 Keep It GoingTry it. See what happens. Even if it gets weird—that’s the point.Share how it goes:📲 @CoachThomasTech🎧 About the PodcastThe TechEd Clubhouse Podcast — practical, no-fluff ideas you can use tomorrow to make learning more active, meaningful, and real.

Episode SummaryWhat if the best example of student-centered learning in your building isn’t in a framework or a PD session—but right down the hall?In this episode, Dan builds on last week’s idea that AI didn’t break education—it exposed weak assignment design—and takes it one step further.Even when students are “thinking,” they still may not be developing independence.The difference is decision-making.From the band room to the shop, from athletics to art, this episode breaks down what’s actually working in schools right now—and how to bring those same structures into your classroom on a regular Tuesday, even with a test on Friday.Key TakeawaysIf a chatbot can complete your assignment, it’s not a tech problem—it’s a design problem.Thinking is not the same as independence. Students need opportunities to make decisions, adjust, and try again.Some of the most effective classrooms already exist in your building—band, art, shop, athletics.Students who struggle in core classes often thrive in environments where they can do before being told, get immediate feedback, and iterate without penalty.You don’t need a full overhaul. You need a small structural shift.The Big IdeaIndependence isn’t built through better instructions.It’s built through better decisions.Try This Tomorrow (The Tuesday Shift)Start with the problem. Don’t explain it right away. Give students a task and let them try, even if it’s messy.Then teach into their thinking. Use what they did to introduce the concept so the content has context.End with a decision. Ask, “What would you change if you tried this again?”Same class. Same time.Just one added element: student decision-making.What to Look for in Your BuildingInstead of copying activities, look at how learning works.In band, students try, adjust, and refine.In athletics, they practice reps before the game.In art, mistakes are part of the process.In theater, they run it before explaining it.In shop or CTE, the work provides immediate, honest feedback.If every student’s work looks the same, they probably didn’t make real decisions.The Student to WatchThink about the student who struggles in math, ELA, or social studies. The one who gets redirected constantly and feels disengaged.Then watch what happens when they walk into PE, art, or shop.Same student.Different structure.This Week’s ChallengeVisit one teacher down the hall—art, shop, coach, or another colleague.Ask, “Where do your students make decisions?”Bring one idea back to your classroom and try it on your next Tuesday.ConnectHave you tried this? Seen a shift?Reach out and share: @CoachThomasTechFinal ThoughtWe’ve been chasing tools.But the model we’re looking for has been in our schools the whole time.If this episode connects with you, share it with a colleague and try one small shift this week.

🧠 Episode SummaryAI isn’t the problem—it’s the spotlight.In this solo episode, I break down a hard truth: if a chatbot can complete an assignment without thinking, the issue isn’t AI—it’s design. Building off an article by Dustin Rimmey, I connects 30+ years of classroom experience to what’s happening right now and offers a simple, practical shift teachers can use immediately.This isn’t about overhauling your curriculum. It’s about upgrading one assignment at a time—starting tomorrow.🔑 Key TakeawaysIf students can complete an assignment without making decisions, it’s a design problem—not an AI problemWe’ve seen this before (calculators, Google, YouTube)—and we adapted every timeMost traditional assignments prioritize compliance over thinkingThe real learning happens in the process, not the final productAI makes it impossible to ignore weak task design🔧 Practical Move (Use Tomorrow)Try this with your next lesson:Ask one question:Can students complete this without making a single decision?If yes → that’s your redesign targetAdd a 5-minute “do first” moment before instructionHold vocabulary until after students experience the conceptThis is the shift:Activity → Content → Vocabulary (ABC → CBV)🧩 Framework HighlightABC (Activity Before Content)Students experience the problem before explanationCBV (Content Before Vocabulary)Students understand the concept before naming itThis sequence builds thinking into the work—making it naturally resistant to AI shortcuts.🔄 Big IdeaAI didn’t create weak assignments.It exposed them.And that’s not a crisis—it’s a reset.🏫 Why This Matters NowThe Portrait of a Graduate prioritizes thinking, not recallSchools are being pushed to redesign learningTeachers who already design for thinking are now leading the conversation💬 Quote from the Episode“If a student can complete your assignment without making a single decision, that’s not an AI problem. That’s a design problem.”🔗 Mentioned in This EpisodeArticle: “We Blamed Google. Now We’re Blaming AI. We Need to Stop.” by Dustin Rimmeyteacher's plAIground | AI Teaching Strategies for K–12 Educators🚀 Call to ActionPick one assignment this week and test itTry a 5-minute “activity first” entryTalk about it with a colleague or PLCIf you want help bringing this work to your school or team, reach out.📢 Connect with DanPodcast: The TechEd ClubhouseSocial: @coachthomastech🎯 Closing ThoughtWe’ve adapted before.We’ll adapt again.This time—with thinking as the goal.

What does real learning actually look like right now?In this episode, I sit down with Dr. John Spencer—former middle school teacher, current professor, and author of Empower, Launch, and Vintage Innovation—to unpack one of the biggest shifts happening in education:➡️ Moving from compliance to ownership➡️ Designing learning that actually means something➡️ Preparing students for an unpredictable futureWe dig into what’s changing (and what’s not), how AI is reshaping classrooms, and why small shifts—not massive overhauls—are the real path forward.🔑 Key TakeawaysAuthentic learning ≠ abandoning structure It’s about matching learning to real-world context and purpose.Students haven’t changed—context has Today’s learners are navigating uncertainty, not a clear path.Range beats specialization The future belongs to students who can think, adapt, and connect ideas across domains.You don’t need a full PBL overhaul. Small moves—warm-ups, mini design challenges, quick builds—create real impact.AI doesn’t replace thinking—it raises the bar for it. The focus shifts to reasoning, process, and decision-making.🛠️ Try This TomorrowSwap your warm-upReplace a worksheet with a 5–10 minute open-ended challenge.Renovate, don’t replaceKeep your curriculum—but upgrade one piece (hook, task, or reflection).Make thinking visibleAsk: “Why did you do it this way?” instead of just grading the result.🔗 Connect with John Spencer🌐 Website: https://spencereducation.com📱 Instagram / Facebook: Spencer Education🎯 Final ThoughtStudents don’t resist work—they resist meaningless work.When learning connects, effort follows.🎙️ About the PodcastThe Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast is all about practical ideas you can use tomorrow—STEM, PBL, AI, and bringing real thinking back into classrooms.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Mark Zeiler, an experienced educator, administrator, and edtech leader, to dig into what it really means to keep education human-centered in an AI-driven world.We talk about building school culture, navigating compliance-heavy systems, and why connection—not programs—actually drives change in schools.We also get into AI—where it helps, where it can hurt, and how we can use it to give time back to what matters most: people.💡 Key TakeawaysConnection over compliance: Systems matter—but relationships drive impactCulture isn’t built once a year: It needs to be visible and ongoingRecognition changes schools: Simple systems can shift morale fastAI should remove friction—not replace thinkingHuman intelligence still leads the work🧠 Practical Ideas You Can Use TomorrowSet up a simple weekly recognition system (students + staff)Build in daily micro-connections (quick check-ins > big initiatives)Use AI to free up time for people, not add more to your plate🚧 Trade-Off to ConsiderIf we don’t intentionally design for connection, AI and compliance will take over our time—and school becomes transactional instead of relational.🤝 Guest InfoDr. Mark Zeiler20+ years in education (teacher, media specialist, administrator)Focus on human-centered systems, leadership, and AI in schoolsConnect with him on LinkedIn 🌍 What We Talk AboutHuman Intelligence MovementAI in educationSchool culture and leadershipReal-world classroom and admin challenges🎯 Closing ThoughtIf AI gives us time back—but we don’t use it to connect—we missed the point.📢 Connect with MeFollow: @coachthomastechTech Ed Clubhouse Podcast⭐ Enjoying the show?Leave a review and share it with another educator who needs this conversation.

When Sean O’Shea surveyed his staff, only 7 out of 25 teachers had used AI.So he didn’t run a training. He rebuilt the culture.In this episode, we break down what actually worked—how one principal moved teachers from hesitation to experimentation, and why AI only matters if it improves thinking, not replaces it.This is real school, real constraints, real moves.In This Episode: - The permission problem holding teachers back (and how to fix it fast) - Why most AI PD fails—and what to do instead - Using AI as a thought partner, not a shortcut - A simple staff meeting shift that changed adoption - How Sean used AI to analyze evaluations and uncover real school-wide gaps - The balance: faster feedback vs. losing human connection - A practical “Driver’s Ed” model for teaching AI to students3 Moves You Can Try Tomorrow: 1. Give teachers one safe AI task (quiz or sub plans)—no pressure, just try 2. Use AI to generate reflection questions, not answers 3. Share one real example of AI saving time—make it visibleKey Insight: AI isn’t the change. Teaching people how to think is.Guest: Sean O’Shea Middle School Principal | Massachusetts

What if the best professional development in your school isn’t a program… but the teacher down the hall?In this episode, I sit down with digital learning coach Stevie Frank to break down what real growth looks like for educators right now—from conferences and coaching cycles to AI, edtech, and the uncomfortable truth about learning something new.We cut through the noise on AI hype, challenge the idea of one-size-fits-all PD, and share practical ways teachers can grow—even without leaving their classroom.This is a grounded conversation about learning, leadership, and why the best educators are still willing to feel uncomfortable.🧠 What You’ll LearnWhy the best PD is often the teacher next doorHow to get started presenting at conferences (without overthinking it)The real gap between AI conversations online vs. classrooms todayWhy hands-on learning still matters in a tech-heavy worldHow coaching, co-teaching, and relationships drive real changeA simple mindset shift: you don’t have to fully know it to try it💡 Quotes Worth Pulling“The best professional development is the teacher down the hall.” “It’s okay to live in the gray area—you don’t have to know everything to try it.” “Sometimes the best tech decision is putting the tech away.” “If you’re not paying for the tool—you are the product.” 🔗 Connect with Stevie FrankTwitter/X: @StevieFrank23LinkedIn: Stevie FrankWebsite: steviefrank.com⚡ Dan’s TakeawayStop waiting for better PD.The growth you’re looking for is already in your building.Share this episode with a colleague—and try one new thing this week.

What if the best school you've never heard of is sitting inside a former Sears building in Memphis?In this episode of The TechEd Clubhouse, I talk with Scott Holcomb — Ed Tech Imagineer at Crosstown High, Space Camp Hall of Famer, and yes, an actual character in the 1985 Space Camp movie — about what happens when a group of teachers finally get to build the school they always wanted.Crosstown High isn't a school that adopted a new program. It's a school that started from scratch — no bells, no traditional silos, no "we've always done it this way." Built inside a 1.5 million square foot vertical village alongside a YMCA, a hospital, restaurants, and a grocery store, it was designed around one question: what if we actually listened to students and teachers?Scott's journey to get there — from school counselor to instructional technologist covering an entire Memphis school district to Space Camp Hall of Famer — is as unconventional as the school itself.IN THIS EPISODEWhy the same trick that got a resistant teacher interested in technology in 1998 still works with AI todayWhat Crosstown High actually looks like day to day — and what makes it different beneath the surfaceThe AI conversation schools keep getting wrong, and what student surveys revealed about how kids are actually using itWhy banning AI is the calculator mistake all over againAre we at the start of an educational renaissance? Scott and Dan make the caseSpace Camp: what it is, who it's for, and why it's changed more lives than just astronautsCROSSTOWN HIGH BY DESIGNProject-based — real problems, real community connections, real workIntentionally diverse — lottery system built around zip codes, not applicationsRelationship-driven — teachers know their students, leadership knows their teachersAlways iterating — surveys, sabbaticals, and the belief that the school will never be "finished"RESOURCES MENTIONEDCrosstown High — crosstownhigh.orgUS Space and Rocket Center / Space Camp — rocketcenter.comMagic School AI — magicschool.aiNotebook LM — notebooklm.google.comXQ Institute — xqsuperschool.orgCONNECT WITH SCOTTInstagram: @hideotakaminiLinkedIn: Scott HolcombCONNECT WITH DANWebsite: coachthomastech.comTwitter/X: @coachthomastechThe TechEd Clubhouse Podcast explores STEM education, project-based learning, creativity, and practical ideas teachers can use tomorrow.ENJOY THE EPISODE?If you enjoyed this conversation:Follow the podcastLeave a rating or reviewShare the episode with another educatorIt helps more teachers discover the show.

What if the problem in schools isn’t that we have too many meetings… but that we’re having the wrong ones?In this episode of The TechEd Clubhouse, I talk with Kurtis Hewson from Jigsaw Learning about a simple structure that helps schools move from isolated classrooms to real collaboration.Kurtis shares the thinking behind Collaborative Team Meetings (CTMs) — a practical meeting structure that helps teachers share strategies, solve classroom challenges together, and unlock the expertise already inside a school.Instead of another initiative, this approach focuses on leveraging the knowledge teachers already have to improve practice and support students.IN THIS EPISODE• Why teaching has become too complex to do alone The difference between real collaboration and “contrived collegiality” The four layers of collaboration effective schools use How Collaborative Team Meetings help teachers learn from each other Why most professional development ignores the expertise already in the building How small changes in meetings can reduce teacher burnout and overwhelmTHE FOUR LAYERS OF COLLABORATIONCollaborative Planning Teacher teams working together to improve learning for all students.Collaborative Team Meetings (CTM) Structured conversations where teachers bring real classroom challenges and share strategies.School Support Team Teams that coordinate additional supports for students beyond the classroom.Case Consultation Focused meetings that address the needs of one student when deeper support is required.RESOURCES MENTIONEDJigsaw Learning https://jigsawlearning.caCONNECT WITH DANWebsite https://coachthomastech.comFollow Dan on Twitter/X @coachthomastechThe TechEd Clubhouse Podcast explores STEM education, project-based learning, creativity, and practical ideas teachers can use tomorrow.ENJOY THE EPISODE?If you enjoyed this conversation:Follow the podcast Leave a rating or review Share the episode with another educatorIt helps more teachers discover the show.

We gave kids devices.We gave them apps.We gave them AI.But did we ever teach them what’s under the hood?In this episode, I sit down with Stewart Brown from Code4Kids to talk about why tech literacy can’t wait until high school — and why this conversation is bigger than “learning to code.”We dig into:• Why K–8 is the missing link in digital literacy• Why computer science should amplify core subjects — not compete with them• Why engagement doesn’t automatically equal learning• How understanding algorithms builds smarter, more intentional tech users• Why banning technology isn’t a long-term solution• What AI is exposing about our current education systemThis isn’t about turning every student into a programmer.It’s about helping kids move from passive consumers to informed, critical thinkers who understand the systems shaping their lives.If this episode challenged you, share it with a colleague and let’s keep the conversation going.Connect with Stewart Brown / Code4Kids🌐 Website: https://c4k.io💼 LinkedIn: Stewart Brown (Code for Kids)📧 Email: [email protected] for listening to the TechEd Clubhouse.Follow the show so you don’t miss what’s next.

In this episode of the Tech Ed Clubhouse, I’m joined by Stephanie Howell—CEO of Gold EDU, Google Innovator, co-author of Control the Chaos, and Community Coach at SchoolAI.We talk about the difference between engagement and compliance, why quiet classrooms are often misunderstood, and how small, low-prep moves can immediately shift student thinking. Stephanie shares her personal learning story, a 5-minute classroom strategy teachers can use tomorrow, and how AI—used well—supports feedback, iteration, and real learning without replacing teachers.We also dig into:What real engagement actually looks likeManaging “controlled chaos” in active classroomsHow SchoolAI’s Dot and Spaces support teachers and studentsUsing AI for feedback, projects, and formative assessmentWhy teachers—not tools—still lead the workIf you want ideas that work inside real classrooms, without new mandates or heavy lift, this episode is for you.Connect with Stephanie:📧 [email protected]🌐 schoolai.com📱 @MrsHowell24 , LinkedINFollow the Tech Ed Clubhouse for practical conversations about teaching, learning, and building classrooms where thinking actually happens.

In this episode, I sit down with Austin Levinson, Director of Learning at Mega Minds and a former educator with over 20 years of classroom experience. We dig into what’s missing in education right now—especially in CTE and career pathways—and why certifications alone aren’t enough.We talk about critical thinking, adaptability, workforce readiness, and immersive AI simulations that go far beyond videos, worksheets, or “edtech for edtech’s sake.” Austin shares how Mega Minds is using 3D environments and AI characters to give students realistic, high-stakes experiences—from healthcare triage to AI ethics to job interviews—while keeping teachers at the center of the work.If you care about real learning, transferable skills, and preparing students for a future that keeps shifting, this conversation is for you. 🔑 Key Topics We CoverWhy critical thinking can’t be taught directly—and what can develop itThe difference between compliance-based learning and real workforce readinessWhat CTE programs do well—and where they’re still falling shortWhy videos and slide decks aren’t enough for career explorationHow immersive AI simulations create tension, decision-making, and real learningTeaching skills like triage, adaptability, communication, and judgment safelyAI ethics through lived experience, not lecturesWhy failure, replayability, and reflection matter more than right answersSupporting ELL students, neurodivergent learners, and accessibility through AIKeeping humans at the center while using technology intelligently🧠 Big TakeawaysStudents don’t remember worksheets—they remember experiencesCertifications matter, but durable skills matter moreNot all screen time is equalFeedback needs to be immediate, human, and actionableCareer exploration should help students say “yes,” “not yet,” or “definitely not”AI works best when it supports teachers, not replaces them🔗 Learn More About Austin & Mega Minds🌐 Website: https://gomegaminds.com💼 Connect with Austin on LinkedIn: Austin Levinson🎧 Who This Episode Is ForCTE teachers and directorsSTEM, tech ed, and special area educatorsSchool and district leadersAnyone questioning whether current systems are truly preparing studentsEducators looking for real solutions, not shiny tools

In this episode of the Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Marialice Curran to unpack one of the most important—and most misunderstood—topics in education today: mental health.What starts as a conversation about digital citizenship quickly turns into a powerful discussion about language, stigma, masculinity, school culture, and why mental health needs to be treated like physical health—something we actively train, track, and support.Marialice shares her personal journey into the mental health space, her work with Same Here Global, and how a simple shift in language—from “us vs. them” to “five in five”—can completely change how schools, communities, and individuals show up for one another.This isn’t a surface-level conversation. It’s honest, human, and long overdue.Why “1 in 5 have mental illness” is the wrong messageThe Same Here Global philosophy: five in five of us have mental healthHow language shapes stigma in schools and societyWhy mental health should be treated like going to the gymThe “Gym for the Brain” model and what it looks like in schoolsMasculinity, vulnerability, and the unique mental health challenges men faceHow sports, coaching, and education intersect in powerful waysWhy proactive mental health work beats crisis response every timeSimple ways teachers can support students tomorrow—without new programs or mandatesMental health isn’t something some people have.It’s something all of us live on a spectrum with—every single day.When schools change the language, normalize the conversation, and model regulation instead of compliance, everything shifts: culture, trust, and learning.Same Here Global: https://www.samehereglobal.orgContact Mary Alice: [email protected]: @dr_mbfxcSame Here Scale App: Available via Same Here GlobalTeachers and school leadersCoaches and athletic directorsCounselors and support staffParents and caregiversAnyone who believes schools should be more humanIf this conversation made you pause, reflect, or feel a little more seen—you’re not alone.Same here.If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast, share it with someone who needs to hear it, and leave a review—it helps more educators find conversations like this.

We talk a lot about fixing education.But what if teaching isn’t broken?In this episode of The Tech Ed Clubhouse, I explore the idea that we’re standing at the beginning of a Renaissance in education—a shift away from scripts, compliance, and performative engagement, and back toward the human craft of teaching.Drawing parallels to the early Renaissance at the end of the Middle Ages, this episode unpacks:how schooling quietly became more about obedience than judgmentwhy teachers are feeling tension between what they’re told to do and what they know workswhat the first Renaissance actually looked like before the masterpieceshow today’s classrooms mirror that same uncomfortable, hopeful transitionand where tools and AI fit—using the printing press as a guideThis isn’t a call for new programs or shiny tools.It’s a call to reclaim professional judgment, trust human thinking, and teach like a Renaissance human—right now, even while the old systems are still in place.If you’ve felt like something in education doesn’t quite fit anymore…this episode will give you language for why.

After 32 years in the classroom, I’ve been thinking a lot about why teaching feels heavier now than it used to—even though we have more tools, systems, and strategies than ever before.In this episode, I reflect on the invisible cognitive and relational work at the center of teaching: the constant judgment calls, the timing, and the real-time decisions that never show up on a plan or a platform but shape everything that happens in a classroom.This isn’t an episode about tools or advice. It’s a quiet conversation about teaching as a professional, judgment-based practice—and why the weight teachers feel is often a sign of meaningful work being done.

Every scroll promises a fix.A new tool. A new strategy. A new way to boost engagement.But after coming back from FETC, one question kept sticking with me:What if the biggest thing missing in education right now isn’t another tool—but permission to just be a teacher?This episode is a reflection on great conversations, real engagement, and the growing overload of “solutions” in education. While the presenters, sessions, and people at FETC were thoughtful and inspiring, the most meaningful moments didn’t come from platforms or products—they came from honest conversations between educators.We talk about:• Why engagement isn’t missing—it’s being crowded out• How too many tools can quietly make teaching feel heavier• What we’ve lost in the rush to fix teaching• Why “just teaching” might be the most radical move right nowNo tips.No tricks.Just space to think.If teaching has started to feel more complicated than it should, this episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and remember that you already know how to do this work.

What happens when engagement isn’t enough?In this episode of the TechEd Clubhouse Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Lisa Riegel to explore what’s really happening beneath student behavior, disengagement, and classroom stress.Drawing from neuroscience, classroom practice, and systems-level work with schools, Dr. Riegel reframes behavior as the intersection of biology and context—not compliance or character.This conversation challenges traditional discipline models and offers practical strategies educators can use immediately to create classrooms where students can think, regulate, and learn—without killing joy.------------------------------------WHAT WE TALK ABOUT:• Why behavior is a regulation issue, not a motivation issue • How past experiences shape present classroom reactions • Calm, alert, and alarm states in the brain • Why productive struggle fails under chronic stress • How instructional design can unintentionally escalate behavior • Why relationships matter more than routines • Why teacher regulation matters as much as student regulation ------------------------------------KEY TAKEAWAYS:• Behavior = Biology + Context • Calm comes before cognition • Escalation shuts down thinking • Instructional design can reduce or increase stress • Regulation systems matter—for students and adults ------------------------------------PRACTICAL STRATEGIES DISCUSSED:• “Fizzy or Flat” emotional check-ins • Name it, Own it, Control it language • Consistent, non-confrontational discipline structures • Designing for intellectual safety before challenge ------------------------------------RESOURCES:• NeuroWell – Book by Dr. Lisa Riegel • ⁠Aspirations to Operations: A leader’s guide to making transformative change stick⁠ – Book by Dr. Lisa Riegel • Jakapa (https://jakapa.com) • Dr. Lisa Riegel’s website: https://lisariegel.com • Dr. Lisa Riegel’s LinkedIn------------------------------------REFLECTION QUESTIONS:• What behaviors might actually be stress responses? • Where might my instruction unintentionally escalate anxiety? • How am I supporting my own regulation as an educator? ------------------------------------SUBSCRIBE & SHARE:If this episode resonated, share it with a colleague or administrator and subscribe to the TechEd Clubhouse Podcast for more conversations about learning, design, and humanity in schools.

We’ve spent the last few episodes unpacking engagement—what it is, why it matters, and how it shows up in classrooms. This episode is the next step in that conversation.Because while engagement matters, it’s not the finish line.In this episode, Dan explores a tension many educators feel but struggle to name:What happens when students are engaged… but the learning doesn’t stick?Students can be busy, smiling, and compliant—and still not thinking deeply.This conversation reframes engagement as a starting point, not the outcome, and makes the case for moving toward student ownership, decision-making, and cognitive engagement.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Why engagement became something we measure instead of something we useThe difference between behavioral, emotional, and cognitive engagementHow compliance can look like learning—even when it isn’tWhy engagement alone can actually add noise and anxietyWhat engagement is really for in today’s classroomsThe shift from teacher-driven engagement to student-driven ownershipOne simple question that can instantly deepen learningKey takeaway:Engagement gets students ready.Ownership is where learning actually happens.Try this tomorrow:Ask yourself (or your students):“What decisions were made today?”If the answer is “none,” you don’t need a new lesson—you need a better question.What’s next:The next episode continues this arc by digging into how to move from engagement to real ownership—without blowing up your curriculum or adding one more initiative.🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share if this episode gave you language for something you’ve been feeling in your classroom.

We talk about engagement like it’s something we can flip on — a switch, an app, a strategy.“What’s your engagement strategy?”But after decades in the classroom, one truth keeps showing up:Engagement isn’t something we create. It’s something that emerges.Students don’t engage because lessons are flashy or entertaining.They engage when the work matters, when they have ownership, and when their thinking is required.In this episode, Dan challenges a common framing that impacts both classrooms and schools: we often treat engagement as a performance problem instead of a design problem. When we chase activity, speed, and surface-level participation, we confuse busy with engaged — and that’s where frustration, burnout, and disengagement creep in.Through real classroom stories, analogies from sports and the arts, and practical reflection questions, this episode reframes engagement around cognitive demand, relevance, autonomy, and purpose — not compliance or quiet classrooms.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why engagement is often misread as entertainment or activityThe critical difference between compliance and true engagementHow cognitive demand and relevance drive student motivationWhy some of the most engaged students don’t look compliantWhat teachers and administrators can design differently to support deeper learningThree reflection questions to reset how you think about engagement heading into the new yearThis episode is especially timely for educators on break — not as another “do more” conversation, but as an invitation to rethink what’s worth designing in the first place.

We say we want more student engagement—but what does that actually mean?In this episode, I unpack why engagement has become one of the most overused and misunderstood goals in education. Drawing on current research, classroom experience, and insights from Building Thinking Classrooms, I make the case that engagement is often treated as a stand-in for learning—even though it’s easy to fake and hard to define.Instead, I argue for a shift in focus: away from how students look and toward what students are actually thinking about—and whether they truly own the work.This episode challenges common assumptions, offers practical classroom moves, and reframes what teachers and school leaders should be looking for if they want deeper learning to happen.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:A clear, current definition of student engagement and how it’s commonly understood todayThe difference between behavioral, emotional, and cognitive engagement—and why one matters mostWhy engagement is often measured, but thinking is rarely designed forHow Thinking Classrooms reframes learning around visible thinking and ownershipWhy hands-on building and non-permanent thinking increase risk-taking and revisionSimple classroom moves that shift the focus from engagement to thinkingWhat administrators should look for instead of “on-task” behavior during walkthroughsKey Takeaways:Engagement is a signal, not the goalStudents can appear engaged without doing meaningful cognitive workThinking leaves evidence—if the environment is designed to make it visibleOwnership, agency, and revision matter more than participation and complianceHands-on, erasable thinking lowers risk and deepens learningTry This in Your ClassroomRemove one engagement strategy from an upcoming lessonAdd one thinking demand instead:Ask students to build their understandingHave them explain their choicesRequire them to revise their thinkingReflect on where thinking became visible—and where it didn’tReflection QuestionWhat would change in your classroom—or your school—if engagement wasn’t the goal, but thinking was?Join the ConversationIf this episode resonated with you, share it with a colleague and let me know your takeaways.Tag me on social media using #WheresTheFunInThat and share:What does thinking look like in your classroom?What’s one way you’re moving beyond engagement?About the ShowThe Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast explores teaching, learning, play, and thinking in real classrooms. We focus on practical ideas, honest conversations, and strategies that help teachers and students do deeper, more meaningful work.

EpisodeSummaryI return after a six-week break to recap MASSCUE and NYSCATE—two conferences that, despite being totally different, revealed the same message from educators everywhere:  Teachers want learning that is joyful, simple, hands-on, and usable tomorrow. This episode highlights inside-session moments, hallway conversations, and even late-night trivia and Family Feud that turned into powerful professional learning. I also preview my upcoming FETC workshop, Design. Build. Play.Assess., happening January 11 at 8:00 AM. •MASSCUE: The SparkShowing up as a Bills fan in Patriots territoryHands-on takeaways from sessionsThe real learning happening in hallway conversations After-hours chats that kept circling the same theme: “Give me something I can use Monday.” • NYSCATE: The Family ReunionWhy NYSCATE feels like coming homeTrust, honesty, and real talk with “family”High-energy LEGO Serious Play + worksheet-busting sessionsTrivia and Family Feud fueling meaningful conversationsThe deeper need for joy + manageable routines • The Pattern Across Both ConferencesTeachers everywhere are asking for:Joyful learning with clear structureSimple routines that work every dayAssessment that shows thinkingAI that supports—not complicates—teachingA sense of community and connection • FETC Preview I give a sneak peek at the hands-on LEGOlearning lab he’s leading: Design.Build. Play. Assess. A practical, use-it-tomorrow workshop rooted in everythingteachers said all fall. Free Resources MentionedFun LEGO warm-up: Build the Worst Superhero Ever!Build → Reflect → Share routineSimple AI workflow for hands-on lessonsDownload link Join the Conversation Tag me at @coachthomastech and use #WheresTheFunInThat. Explore more shows at xfactoredu.org. Want to be a guest—or know someone who should be? Reach out!

In this episode of The TechEd Clubhouse Podcast, I sit down with the one and only Farmer Faubs — educator, content creator, and all-around EdTech firecracker — to talk about how creativity and community are redefining teaching. From her viral “Farmer Faubs” persona to her work with Book Creator, Kami, and the EduGuardians, Faubs brings practical strategies, a big heart, and a whole lot of “Yeehaw moments” to classrooms everywhere.We dig into:How Farmer Faubs started on a whim with a cowboy hat and a visionThe power of social media for teacher growth and connectionWhy AI and creativity must coexist in classroomsHow to make PD sessions actually useful (hint: hands-on and follow-up!)Simple, ready-to-use templates and blended learning ideas teachers can apply tomorrowThe story behind the EduGuardians movement and the power of authentic educator communitiesIf you’ve ever wanted PD with purpose, tech with heart, and learning that sticks — this one’s for you.🧩 Key Takeaways“Meet teachers where they are.” Great tech starts with usability and simplicity.Blend hands-on with high-tech. LEGO, shoebox projects, and AI can live together.Keep the human in the loop. AI is a thought partner, not a replacement.Community matters. Connections through Twitter, LinkedIn, and conferences can transform your teaching career.Make PD that sticks. Give teachers something they can use tomorrow, not next semester.🛠️ Tools & Resources MentionedBook CreatorKamiEduGuardians (home page)EduGuardians on X (Twitter)👩‍🌾 Guest Info — Farmer FaubsFarmer Faubs is an instructional coach, content creator, and creativity advocate. Known for her energetic farm-themed EdTech videos and practical classroom ideas, she’s passionate about helping teachers make learning engaging, meaningful, and fun.📱 Follow her on social media: @farmerFaubs (Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn)⛳ Host — Dan ThomasDan Thomas is a veteran STEM educator, LEGO Serious Play facilitator, and host of The TechEd Clubhouse Podcast, where common sense meets creativity in education.🔗 Connect with Dan: @coachthomastech🏷️ Tags#EdTech #PBL #AIinEducation #Creativity #BookCreator #TeacherPD #EduGuardians #TechEdClubhouse #FarmerFaubs #WhereIsTheFunInThat🔔 Call to ActionIf you enjoyed this episode, follow, rate, and share The TechEd Clubhouse Podcast! 💬 Join the conversation on social media using #TechEdClubhouse and #YeehawMoments.

In this episode of The Tech Ed Clubhouse, Dan Thomas sits down with Laura Williams, founder of the Authentic Learning Alliance, to explore what authentic learning really looks like in schools. From chicken tractors to drone-powered science, Laura shares how schools can connect students to meaningful, future-ready work.We dig into why traditional approaches fail too many students, how agile practices like Scrum and retrospectives build durable skills, and how teachers can bring authentic learning into their classrooms tomorrow.What’s not working in education—and how to fix itDefining authentic learning (beyond buzzwords)Real-world examples: selfie stations, chicken tractors, drones, and moreWhy process > product in student learningHow to use Scrum, Kanban boards, and retrospectives in classRethinking PD: agile professional learning that sticksQuick wins teachers can try right awayAuthentic Learning Alliance: authenticlearningalliance.orgBook: The Improvement Game – Amazon linkFollow Laura: @MrsWilliams21C | LinkedInHost: @coachthomastech | coachthomastech.comTry a Plus/Delta chart with your students tomorrow:Plus (+): What went well?Delta (Δ): What could we change?Simple, fast, and powerful feedback that gets students reflecting on their learning.👉 If you enjoy the show, don’t forget to follow, rate, and share The Tech Ed Clubhouse!

In this episode of The Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast, I sit down with Kyle Niemis, Head of Community at Wayground (formerly Quizziz). We dig into the bold decision to rebrand, the story behind the new name, and how Wayground is helping teachers balance student joy with academic rigor.Kyle shares:Why Quizziz rebranded as WaygroundHow Wayground hits the sweet spot between fun gamification and serious assessmentThe power of student accommodations and differentiation at scaleTheir new PhET Simulations partnership for science classroomsWhere AI fits into real-time feedback and student growthWhat’s next for Wayground as schools return this fallWe also dive into big-picture questions around time-saving tools vs. authentic learning, student choice, and how to help every kid succeed—not just the ones at the top of the leaderboard.🎥 Watch the full video version on YouTube here: [Insert YouTube link]Twitter/X: @KyleNiemisWayground: https://wayground.comWayground YouTube: Wayground ChannelTwitter/X: @coachthomastechYouTube: Coach Thomas Tech👉 If you enjoyed this episode, follow, rate, and share The Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen. Let’s keep building fun, purpose, and creativity into learning.

In this episode of The Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast, I sit down with Leena Salah from Canva to explore how this powerful platform is transforming classrooms. From Magic Activities that generate higher-order thinking tasks to Canva Code that lets teachers and students build custom widgets without writing a line of code, Canva is redefining creativity, engagement, and authentic learning.Here’s what we dig into:🚀 The newest Canva tools for educators, including Magic Write, Magic Media, and Magic Activities💡 How Canva Code empowers teachers and students to design interactive tools with simple prompts🎨 Practical classroom applications that save teachers time and boost student engagement🌎 Why Canva is more than an edtech tool—it’s an industry-ready skill for students’ futures📚 The hidden gems inside Canva Design School that every teacher should know aboutLeena also shares insights on Canva’s AI integrations, their growing teacher community, and how Canva is helping educators bridge the gap between creativity, equity, and access.Whether you’re new to Canva or already using it daily, this conversation is packed with strategies, use cases, and inspiration to take your teaching to the next level.Try Canva for Education: canva.com/educationExplore Canva Design School: canva.com/designschoolConnect with the Canva EDU community: canva.com/communitiesIf this episode sparked some ideas for your classroom, don’t keep it to yourself!👉 Follow The Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast on Spotify (or wherever you listen).👉 Hit that ⭐ rating to support the show.👉 Share this episode with a fellow educator who needs a fresh dose of creativity in their teaching toolbox.Follow me on X/Twitter: @coachthomastechJoin the conversation with the hashtag #TechEdClubhouse🔗 Links & Resources📣 Call to Action🔥 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Episode OverviewIn this episode of the TechEd Clubhouse, Dan Thomas sits down with Todd Bloomer, veteran school leader, author of The Blueprint: Survive and Thrive as a School Administrator, and now Director of School Leadership for the Archdiocese of San Antonio.Todd shares his no-nonsense approach to school leadership: why being visible matters more than being stuck in the office, how culture is built in small daily interactions, and why equity—not just equality—matters in schools. From his 29 years in education to his transition into principal coaching, Todd brings passion, practical wisdom, and stories that resonate with anyone in education.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodePeople Before Paper – Why principals and leaders must be present with students and staff, not buried in emails.Culture Is Not a Program – How consistent small interactions shape school culture more than any purchased initiative.Equity Over Equality – The importance of treating students fairly by giving them what they need, not necessarily the same thing.Leadership in the Gray – Why effective principals live in nuance, not black and white rules.Coaching the Next Generation – Todd’s work helping current and future principals find their blueprint for success.Why Kids Really Come to School – The role of social connections, belonging, and recognition in student motivation.Key Quotes“Positivity + Visibility + Reliability = Trust.” – Todd Bloomer“You can’t lead from your office. Culture is built in the hallways, classrooms, and cafeterias.”“Fair isn’t always equal—every student needs something different to thrive.”Resources and Links📘 Todd’s Book: The Blueprint: Survive and Thrive as a School Administrator – Amazon Link🌐 Todd’s Website: toddmbloomer.com📱 Follow Todd on Instagram & TikTok: @todd_bloomer_author🔗 Connect with Todd on LinkedIn🌍 Blog & Resources: coachthomastech.com/blog🐦 Twitter: @coachthomastech🎧 Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.💬 Join the conversation with hashtag #TechEdClubhouseIf you’re a school leader, teacher, or aspiring administrator—this conversation will leave you fired up and ready to lead with heart. After listening, share your biggest takeaway with us on social media using #TechEdClubhouse, and don’t forget to leave a review to help more educators find the show.

In this episode, I sit down with Jon Laven, co-founder of Snorkl.app, an AI-powered tool designed to capture and analyze student thinking. A former high school math teacher, Jon shares how Snorkl helps students explain their thought processes, gives teachers richer insights, and shifts classrooms toward authentic learning and student agency.We dig into the balance between AI and the human element, why documenting thought processes matters, and the durable skills that go beyond tests—communication, creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.What you’ll hear about in this episode:Jon’s journey from teacher to edtech founderHow Snorkl went from a “social Khan Academy” to an AI feedback toolWhy documenting thinking is as valuable as the answer itselfTimely AI feedback and its impact on learningStudent voice, choice, and agency in actionFailure as growth and iterationUnexpected uses: reading fluency, world language practiceEquity, differentiation, and support for multilingual learnersThe future of formative assessmentAdvice for teachers with big edtech ideasMemorable quotes:💬 “If Snorkl did nothing else but just got students to explain their thinking, there would be value there.” – Jon Laven💬 “Math is just another form of storytelling. The numbers tell a story.” – Dan ThomasResources:🌐 Snorkl.app (create a free teacher account)📧 [email protected]🔗 coachthomastech.com | Twitter/X: @coachthomastechTakeaways:Immediate feedback changes the game—students learn in real time.Every student voice matters, not just the loudest.Formative assessment is evolving with tools like Snorkl.The best innovations start in the classroom.👉 Try Snorkl with your class, share this episode with a colleague, and subscribe to the TechEd Clubhouse for more conversations that bring play, STEM, and common sense back into learning.

Back-to-school season is overwhelming—lesson plans, grading, differentiation, and those endless Sunday night prep sessions. Teachers are stretched to the breaking point. But what if an AI tool actually cut through the chaos and gave you back your time?In this episode, I sit down with Thomas Thompson and Thomas Hummel, co-founders of EduaideAI—a platform designed to help teachers plan faster, differentiate smarter, and free up time for what really matters: connecting with students.Here’s what we cover:✨ The story of how two middle school teachers bootstrapped EduaideAI into reality✨ Why EduaideAI is different from “just another AI tool”—it’s grounded in real pedagogy, not myths✨ How it helps teachers with lesson plans, projects, graphic organizers, and even gamified warm-ups✨ Their take on AI in the classroom—what works, what doesn’t, and where it’s going next✨ What’s new and upcoming for EduaideAI, and why staying teacher-focused (not venture-funded) is their core missionIf you’ve ever wished you could spend less time buried in lesson planning and more time actually teaching, this episode is for you.🔗 Learn more: eduaide.ai💬 Connect with EduaideAI: @eduaideai on X LinkedInEduaide.Ai (@eduaide.ai) • Instagram photos and videos

It’s back-to-school season, and AI is everywhere. But how can teachers actually use it to save time and reduce stress right now?In this episode of The Tech Ed Clubhouse, I chat with Amber Trout, Senior Community Manager at Magic School AI, about practical ways educators can bring AI into their classrooms without the overwhelm.Whether you’re an AI skeptic or already experimenting, this episode will give you ideas you can use tomorrow.Why Magic School is different from ChatGPT & GeminiQuick-start tools teachers love: lesson plans, slides, rubrics, emailsHow to differentiate with “Make It Relevant” + spicy/medium/mild scaffoldsStudent Rooms: safe AI spaces for kids with teacher-built guardrailsHow AI can fight teacher burnout by giving you back your time👉 Magic School AI – free teacher & student toolsMagic School Summer Academy & Back-to-School GuideConnect with Amber: LinkedIn | @Amber_EdTech| [email protected] Pioneers here: https://www.magicschool.ai/magicschool-ai-pioneersBack-to-school guide: https://www.magicschool.ai/back-to-schoolSummer Webinar series: https://www.magicschool.ai/magicschool-academy3:36All MagicSchool PD resources: https://www.magicschool.ai/professional-developmentTeachers don’t need hype—they need solutions. This conversation is packed with real, classroom-ready ideas to help you start the year smarter, with less stress, and more time to actually connect with students.Follow & Subscribe:🎧 The Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast📱 Twitter: @coachthomastech📌 Hashtag: #TechEdClubhouse

In this episode of The TechEd Clubhouse Podcast, I sit down with James Myklebust-Hampshire, a global educator, learning designer, and founder of X Focus — a platform built to help students take ownership of their learning, lead projects, and develop real-world skills.James has taught in wildly different educational settings — from UK pupil referral units to International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programs in Norway — and brings a refreshingly practical perspective on replacing compliance culture with purpose, creativity, and agency. Together, we dive into what real student agency looks like, why it’s not about “do whatever you want,” and how thoughtful structure, skill-building, and authentic ownership create classroom magic.We also explore the practical guardrails teachers need to make student-led learning work, why durable skills matter as much as content, and how AI can serve as a thought partner — not a shortcut — to deeper learning. This is an unfiltered conversation packed with strategies, examples, and mindset shifts you can apply in your own teaching tomorrow.If you’ve ever wanted to transform your classroom into a living, breathing ecosystem of collaboration and curiosity — or you’re curious about how technology and play can fuel student independence — this episode is your blueprint.________________What You’ll Learn in This Episode:* Student Agency Demystified: Why it’s not a free-for-all and how guardrails actually create freedom.* Practical Frameworks for Agency: From job boards to morning meetings — systems that grow ownership and collaboration.* Durable Skills First: Building critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability alongside content knowledge.* Balancing Explicit Instruction and Inquiry: How “split-screen” teaching builds both knowledge and skills.* Culture That Breathes: How classroom agency connects to school-wide culture and why it matters.* AI as a Thought Partner: How to use AI to deepen thinking, spark ideas, and support project-based learning — without replacing the human work that matters.* Real-World Examples: Stories from IB classrooms, pupil referral units, and schools worldwide using X Focus to streamline student-led projects.________________About Our Guest – James Myklebust-HampshireJames Myklebust-Hampshire is a UK-born, Norway-based educator, learning designer, and founder of X Focus, a project management tool built specifically for students and teachers engaged in student-led learning. With experience spanning challenging pupil referral units to inquiry-driven IB classrooms, James is passionate about creating learning environments where purpose, creativity, and agency thrive. He works with schools globally to replace compliance culture with authentic, skill-driven learning that prepares students for life beyond the classroom.Connect with James: * Website: X Focus https://xfocuspyp.softr.app * LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-myklebust-hampshire-13193847/ * Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/thejamesmh?r=64gyap&utm_medium=ios________________Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode: * X Focus – The student project management platform discussed in this episode. * Guy Claxton’s Split Screen Teaching approach. * International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP). * James Clear’s book Atomic Habits – concept of “never miss twice.”________________Episode Quote Highlights:“You need boundaries to have freedom — otherwise, choice can be paralyzing.” – James Myklebust-Hampshire“Agency isn’t a badge. It’s not just ‘do whatever you want.’ It’s structure, skill, and purpose.” – Dan Thomas“AI should make us more human, not less. Use it to think deeper, not skip the thinking altogether.” – James Myklebust-Hampshire

Welcome back to the TechEd Clubhouse Podcast, where we smash the status quo of traditional teaching and bring real talk to real classrooms. In this episode, I sit down with Marlena Hebern—former teacher, co-creator of EduProtocols, and all-around EdTech disruptor.We break down:What an EduProtocol is (spoiler: it’s not another worksheet in disguise)Why most “tech integration” misses the pointHow lesson frames like Iron Chef, Sketch & Tell, and Number Mania build actual learning and not just point-gettingWhy open-ended routines are essential for building agency, equity, and deeper thinkingHow Smart Start routines set the tone for a year of student engagementHow EduProtocols support collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and communication—without eating up your whole prep periodHow to keep learning student-centered without surrendering the reinsWe also touch on:How to use EduProtocols with fidelity and flexibilityThe biggest mistakes teachers make when trying to use techHow to scaffold rigor, support ELLs, and make learning meaningful without losing your sanityThis one is full of hard truths, practical examples, and no-BS advice you can actually use tomorrow.Sketch & Tell – Think-pair-share with purposeIron Chef – Fast, focused, and fun research and reteachingNumber Mania – Crowdsourced data turned into powerful visuals🔗 EduProtocols Website🔗 EduProtocols Templates & Resources✔️ Subscribe to the podcast✔️ Rate and review to help spread the word✔️ Share this episode with a teacher who’s still assigning digital worksheetsWhat’s one boring assignment you can swap with an EduProtocol this week? Tweet it out using #TechEdClubhouse or DM me @coachthomastech.

Let’s cut the fluff—death-by-slideshow is not the way to start your school year. In this solo episode, Dan breaks down why you should ditch the rules-and-procedures lecture and how to launch your year with a small, high-impact Project-Based Learning (PBL) activity that sets the tone for real engagement.Forget the “All About Me” coloring sheets. Instead, empower your students to fix a real problem, co-create the classroom culture, and build something that matters.Dan shares:3 reasons why starting the year with PBL is a game-changer3 easy starter project ideas you can run in any classA cheat sheet for making it work with no budget and little prepA challenge for you to compare two classes—one with PBL, one with slides—and see the differenceCulture > Rules: Start with habits, inquiry, and ownership instead of a contract.Small Projects, Big Impact: You only need cardboard, curiosity, and a problem worth solving.Make It Personal: Projects like “Fix Something at School,” “Redesign the Rules,” and “Solve a Personal Problem” help students feel heard and valued from day one.Skip the Grade: The reflection is the assessment. Ask: What did you learn? What would you change?“Don’t tell them this class is different—prove it. Let them build something. That’s how you earn buy-in.”Curipod for anonymous, interactive student inputCoachThomasTech.com – for blog posts, PBL ideas, and contact infoLEGO, craft materials, markers, cardboard—whatever you’ve got on handTry a mini PBL project this week and tag Dan on social media @coachthomastech. Whether you fix the pencil problem or redesign the rules, share what your students create.Want help brainstorming a PBL kickoff for your class or school? Reach out to Dan directly at coachthomastech.com or message him on Twitter/X.

In this episode of The TechEd Clubhouse, I sit down with Rae Hughart—teacher, speaker, author, and founder of the Teachers Deserve It movement—to get brutally honest about professional development, time-saving hacks, and what teachers really need to thrive in today’s classrooms.Rae isn’t sugarcoating anything. She’s talking about howeducators are overworked, under-supported, and often stuck with outdated PD models that just don't cut it anymore. Together, we dig into how to flip that script—offering teachers choice, agency, and time back in their day.We talk about:Why PD needs to work like real teaching—differentiated, practical, and personalizedThe power of micro-learning and teacher-driven goal settingHow Rae and her team support over 21 states (and counting) with hands-on coaching and a fully loaded Learning HubWhy paraprofessionals, new teachers, and special areateachers can’t be left out anymoreHer mission to help 1 million teachers by the end of 2025And why it’s OK to ask for help, even if you don’t know the solution yetWhether you're a new teacher, a seasoned vet, or an admintrying to make PD not suck—you’ll get something out of this.💡 Key Takeaways:“Stop surviving. Start thriving.”PD shouldn’t be a 6-hour sit-and-get. It should look likegreat teaching.Give teachers TIME. Thirty seconds saved here and fiveminutes there add up fast.Let teachers set their own learning goals—and then support the hell out of them.It’s not just about student data. It’s about teacherretention and sustainability.Rae’s team is basically your on-demand assistant. Got a pain point? They’ll solve it.🔗 Resources Mentioned:💻 TeachersDeserveIt.com🔑 The Learning Hub (with Free Trial)📘 Teachers Deserve It Book by Rae Hughart & Adam Welcome – Get it here📌 Free Digital Downloads📣 Join the Facebook Community📱 Follow Rae on TikTok & Instagram: @RaeHughart👋 Connect with Rae Hughart:Website: https://www.teachersdeserveit.comTwitter/X: @RaeHughartInstagram: @RaeHughartFacebook: Teachers Deserve It Group🧰 Tech Ed Clubhouse Tools of the Week:🎯 Rae’s top PD tip: Try standing while conferencing with students—boosts efficiency by 33%🧠 Pro Move: Don’t hoard tools. Share them. Nothing’s behind a paywall that shouldn’t be.🗣️ Call to Action:🔥 Want to join a PD movement that doesn’t suck?➡️Head to teachersdeserveit.com and try out the Learning Hub. Use the free trial, download everything, and cancel if it’s not for you.🧱 And while you're at it, join the Facebook group—even if you just lurk. Trust me, you’ll find value.🎧 About the Host:I’m Dan Thomas—retired after 32 years in the classroom, butnot done disrupting education. I bring conversations that matter straight to teachers who give a damn.Follow me:Twitter/X: @coachthomastechPodcast: TechEd ClubhouseBlog: coachthomastech.com/blog

In this episode of The TechEd Clubhouse Podcast, I sit down with two powerhouses in human-centered education: Dr. Michelle Ament, Chief Academic Officer at ProSolve and Executive Director of the Human Intelligence Movement, and Arvin Ross, Co-Founder and Chief Culture Architect at ProSolve.Together, they break down what’s broken in traditional education and why now—more than ever—we must prioritize human skills like adaptability, resilience, creativity, and problem solving in an AI-driven world.🔍 Key Topics Covered:What immersive, play-based learning really looks likeWhy human intelligence matters more than knowledge memorizationThe skills you can’t teach from a textbook: grit, adaptability, and collaborationReframing failure as iteration and learning, not punishmentWhy our education system must shift from factory-model thinking to something more humanThe challenge: Stop asking what AI can do. Start asking what makes us human—and how to amplify that.🧠 Memorable Quotes:“If a kid can go through 12 years of school and graduate uninspired to learn, that’s the real failure.” – Arvin Ross“We’re moving past the Knowledge Age. Skills—not facts—are what make kids future-ready.” – Dr. Michelle Ament“If 30 people build a LEGO duck with the same six bricks and end up with 30 different ducks, you just taught 30 unique lessons.” – Dan Thomas🧰 Resources & Links:🔗 The Human Intelligence Movement📧 Michelle Ament: [email protected]📧 Arvin Ross: [email protected]📱 Connect with Michelle and Arvin on LinkedIn🧪 Dan’s Takeaway:Forget Scantrons. This conversation is about helping kids become problem solvers, not parrots. If you're heading into summer thinking about next year—start with one simple shift: prioritize skills over standards. The world has changed. Our classrooms need to catch up.

In this pre-show kickoff to The Summer Rebuild: Brick by Brick series, I get honest about a rough round of golf—and an even rougher attitude. After toe-hooking his irons and turning into a cranky playing partner, he realized something that hit way closer to the classroom than expected…When things fall apart—whether on the course or in your classroom—it’s not always about trying something new. Sometimes, the fix is going back to what actually works.This episode is about:Why I got mad on the golf course—and what it revealed about his teachingThe “grip, stance, and tempo” of great instructionHow losing your fundamentals leads to frustration, burnout, and classroom chaosA preview of The Summer Rebuild series to help you reset and retool—with joy, purpose, and playWhether you're toe-hooking lessons or just need a reset, this is your invitation to start fresh—and build something better, one brick at a time.📌 Mentioned in this episode:The Summer Rebuild: Brick by Brick blog series → coachthomastech.com/blogFollow me on Twitter: @coachthomastechHashtag to join the conversation: #WheresTheFunInThat

In this episode of The Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast, I sit down with the always brilliant Rachelle Dene Poth—Spanish and STEAM teacher, attorney, author, and one of the leading voices in AI and future-ready education.We talk about what’s real and what’s noise when it comes to AI in schools. Rachelle shares how she’s using AI with students to boost creativity, support language learning, and build confidence. I share how I use AI to break creative blocks and save time in my own projects. Together, we dive deep into how tech can support—not replace—real teaching.If you're curious about where AI fits in your classroom—or how to even start—this one’s loaded with practical ideas, real examples, and zero fluff.🔑 Key Topics:How to start using AI without getting overwhelmedReal ways teachers are saving time with AIHow Rachelle uses AI to build language skills and student confidenceClassroom management when using emerging techThe ethics of AI, student voice, and why we need all learners at the tableTop AI tools to try this summer (we list a bunch)🛠️ AI Tools We Mentioned:ChatGPT / GeminiAlmanackBrisk TeachingEduaide.AITeachShare.comMagicSchoolSchoolAISocrateCoGraderClass CompanionSnorklPathlightQuizziz...and more🔥 Bonus:Stick around for a sneak peek of my summer learning series launching July 7th, called “The Summer Rebuild: Brick by Brick.” It’s designed to help educators reset, retool, and rebuild their teaching practice—one hands-on idea at a time. Sign up at coachthomastech.com.📲 Connect with Rachelle Dene Poth:Website Blog: www.rdene915.comX / Twitter: @Rdene915Email: [email protected] & Resources: Amazon Author Page📣 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:Follow me on X: @CoachThomasTechCheck out the blog: www.coachthomastech.com/blogIf this episode got you thinking, share it with a colleague and drop a review. Let’s bring common sense, creativity, and fun back to learning—one episode at a time.

This episode dives into the real-world impact of AI in classrooms. Becky Keene joins Dan to share how AI tools are reshaping teacher workflows, PD, and student learning—without replacing the human side of teaching. We talk about creativity, cheating myths, assessment shifts, and how “systemic disruption” might be exactly what education needs right now. Becky breaks down how to coach reluctant teachers, leverage tools like Canva AI, and embrace AI as a partner—not a threat.🔥 Key Takeaways:“AI is your classroom caddie—not your swing.”Becky’s favorite tools: Canva AI, Claude, ChatGPT, andCopilot.AI can speed up workflows—but can’t replace teacherrelationships.Using AI responsibly means knowing when to source it—andwhen to just create.Teachers need to move beyond the “easy button” and startthinking about incremental innovation.Creativity still matters. Let students build, make, and create—with guardrails.👣 Follow Becky Keene:🌐beckykeene.com📱TikTok: #TikTokWalks📷Socials: @beckykeene🔗 Related Topics:Incremental innovationAI tools for teachersCoaching the tech-reluctantStudent engagement through creativitySystemic disruption in schools

In this powerful episode of The Tech Ed Clubhouse, I sit down with two visionary educators who are reshaping what learning can look like—Thom Markham, the godfather of PBL, and Phil Alcock, a dynamic force exploring the intersection of AI and education. Together, they're launching PBLFuture Labs, a movement to blend project-based learning with the power of artificial intelligence. We get into the hard truths about outdated classroom practices, what it really takes to personalize learning with AI, how to move from "playing the game of school" to real learning—and why the system might not survive unless it evolves.🧠 Topics Covered:The current state and challenges of PBL post-COVIDHow AI is reviving and reshaping PBLDeconstructing standards with AI to build meaningfullearningMisconceptions teachers have about PBLWhy “doing a project” is not the same as project-basedlearningWhat makes PBL + AI the best preparation for the future ofworkStudent portfolios and performance-based assessmentAddressing teacher burnout and resistanceHow to guide students to use AI ethicallyWhat PBL Future Labs is really about—and how to get involved🛠 Resources & Links:🔗 Visit PBL Future Labs📬Sign up for their newsletter for upcoming projects and events🔍Find Thom and Phil on LinkedIn for ongoing discussions and insights

This episode picks up right where we left off last week with Mark Covelle, diving even deeper into what real technical education looks like.I sat down with John Stephens, a veteran shop teacher and CTE curriculum developer from Prince Edward Island. John’s on a mission to reclaim the word “shop” and challenge outdated mindsets about what happens in our labs, woodshops, and maker spaces. We talk about the power of hands-on learning, the importance of failure, and how formative feedback—when it happens in real time—actually drives growth.Whether you're in a tech lab, a gen ed classroom, or leading a school, this episode is a reminder that shop class isn’t for “those kids”—it’s for every kid. What We Talk About: Reclaiming the word "shop" with pride and purpose How to make CTE classrooms inclusive for all students Process over product: What assessment really looks like in hands-on classes Micro-conversations and real-time feedback at the elbow How to keep learning going after the bell Making your program visible inside your building Practical tools for capturing learning: checklists, rubrics, portfolios Why the shop is the perfect space for students to fail forward Creating purpose-driven readers and thinkers through technical instruction Favorite Quotes from John: “Engage the hands. Activate the mind.” “The shop is for everyone—it just needs to be built that way.” “I may have missed your best moment. Tell me about it.” “Formative assessment is elbow-to-elbow feedback, not a quiz that doesn’t count.” Resources Mentioned: A Repair Kit for Grading by Ken O’Connor The triangle of assessment: Products, Observations, Conversations Right-to-Repair laws and the importance of technical agency Real examples from John's classroom: phone stands, picture frames, CNC work Connect with John Stephens: John Stephens | LinkedInMy Takeaway:This episode reminded me why I started in a shop—and why that work still matters. We don’t just teach skills; we build confidence, agency, and curiosity. We need more shop teachers like John sharing their stories and raising their game. Help Us Spread the Word:If this hit home, do me a favor: Share it with a colleague Post it on your socials and tag me @CoachThomasTech Use the hashtag #TechEdClubhouseAnd if you haven’t yet, go back and catch last week’s episode with Mark Covelle for the full picture of what modern CTE should look like. Find all episodes, blogs, and extras at coachthomastech.com/podcast#CTE #ShopClass #TechEd #ProjectBasedLearning #GrowthOverGrades #HandsOnLearning #TechEdClubhouse

In this powerhouse episode,  sit down with Dr. Mark Covell—CTE advocate, educational leader, and Director of MBIT—to dig into the past, present, and future of Career & Technical Education (CTE). Together, we unpack the post-COVID surge in CTE interest, the erosion of outdated stigmas, and whyhands-on, real-world learning is not only relevant—it's essential.🧠 What You'll LearnWhy CTE is booming nationwide—and why it's not just about“the trades”How real-world learning and “learning by doing” boostsengagement and retentionThe critical difference between knowing about acareer and actually experiencing oneHow modern CTE programs prepare students for both the workforce and collegeWhy some of the most in-demand, lucrative careers don’t require a traditional 4-year degreeHow CTE educators are leading the way in differentiated instruction, standards-based grading, and authentic assessment—without evencalling it thatWhat traditional K-12 can (and should) steal from CTEprograms to improve learning for all kids🛠️ Memorable Quotes“When we said ‘college for all,’ we may have accidentallysaid ‘trades for none.’” – Mark Covell“It’s not ‘just a plumber.’ It’s a skilled entrepreneurwho owns a home on the shore.” – Mark Covell“Nobody looks at your transcript—they want to know if youcan do the job.” – Dan Thomas“The number one visited website is Google. Number two?YouTube. We all love to learn by doing.” – Mark Covell💬 Topics CoveredCTE structure at MBIT and shared-time modelHow CTE combats the skills gap and boosts workforcereadinessRewriting the narrative on blue-collar careersThe evolving role of technology and robotics in skilledtradesAddressing the national teacher shortage through CTEhiring pipelinesWhy traditional education needs to get its hands dirty—in a good way🔗 Connect with Dr. Mark CovelleLinkedIn: Mark CovelleTwitter/X: @mcovelleMiddle Bucks Institute of Technology: https://www.mbit.org🎧 Listen & SubscribeDon’t miss an episode—subscribe to The Tech EdClubhouse wherever you get your podcasts and follow Dan at @CoachThomasTech

Episode Summary:In this jam-packed episode, Dan sits down with blended learning expert, author, and teacher advocate Dr. Catlin Tucker to unpack the shift from teacher-led to student-led classrooms. They explore what this really looks like in practice, how to reimagine classroom workflows to avoid burnout, and how AI—when used wisely—can be a teacher’s best co-designer. They also dig into feedback loops, classroom design, and how educators can reclaim their time without sacrificing engagement or standards. Plus, Dr. Tucker drops details on her first-ever Summer Learning Kickoff—a PD opportunity you won’t want to miss.Topics Covered:What “student-led” actually means (and doesn’t)The teacher burnout trap—and how to escape itSmall workflow shifts with big impactWhy feedback needs to be fast, not flawlessHow to use AI as a design partner, not a crutchWhat a student-centered classroom physically looks likeTools and strategies from station rotation to personalized AI tutorsDetails on Dr. Tucker’s Summer Learning Kickoff (June 2–6)Resources Mentioned:Dr. Tucker’s site: CatlinTucker.comDr. Tucker’s new book: Elevating Educational Design with AISchoolAI: schoolai.comFollow Dr. Tucker:X/Twitter: @Catlin_TuckerInstagram: @catlintucker

In this episode, I sit down with veteran educator and STEM advocate Chris Woods. You might know him from DailySTEM.com or The STEM Everyday Podcast — and if you don't yet, you're going to love the practical ideas he shares. Chris and I talk about how STEM is everywhere if you know where to look and how we can help all teachers (not just STEM teachers) build student confidence, curiosity, and durable skills. We dig into everything from:· Making STEM approachable, even if you're new to it·  The power of real-world examples to make learning stick·Showing students the career opportunities right in their own backyard·  How trades and hands-on jobs are vital parts of the STEM world·  Helping kids build resilience through iteration and celebrating failure·  Why cross-curricular learning is more important than ever Chris brings a ton of experience, humor, and heart to this conversation, and if you're looking for ideas to make learning more meaningful for your students, you're going to walk away with a bunch you can use tomorrow.Topics We Discussed:How to make STEM accessible for every teacherFinding quick, real-world STEM connections to bring into any classroomWhy every kid needs at least one class they love coming to each dayThe importance of trades, hands-on learning, and durable skillsHow to balance structured curriculum with playful, project-based learningSmall ways to integrate STEM into English, history, math, and moreFavorite classroom projects like Cardboard Pinball and Shoe Design challengesFavorite Quotes from Chris:“Life is cross-curricular. Education should be too.”“Kids won’t always remember the worksheet... but they will remember the project where they failed, iterated, and finally succeeded.”“STEM is not just about engineering or coding—it’s in nursing, trucking, welding, logistics. It's in the real world our students are walking into.”Connect with Chris Woods:🌎 Website: DailySTEM.com🎙️ Podcast: The STEM Everyday Podcast (Available wherever you listen to podcasts)📲 Twitter/X: @DailySTEMResources We Mentioned:NASA STEM YouTube Channel – for quick, inspiring career videosDaily STEM Newspaper – free monthly STEM articles for your classroomFusion 360 – student-friendly CAD software for project-based learningMakey Makey – easy hands-on invention kitsMy Takeaway for You:✅ Find just one small way this week to show your students how STEM is part of their world — a news story, a hands-on activity, even a quick conversation.✅ Let them struggle. Let them iterate. That’s where real learning (and confidence) happens.✅And most importantly — keep it fun

🗓️ Episode Summary:In this episode, I sat down with Aman Sahota from Factors Education, a Toronto-based startup doing some incredible work at the intersection of AI, equity, and education. We unpacked how their tools help automate lessonplanning, measure durable skills like critical thinking and empathy, and—most importantly—support teachers without asking them to start from scratch.We talked about:✅ What “durable skills” really mean—and why we need to stop calling them “soft”✅How their AI platform creates experiential, standards-based lessons in minutes✅The future of Portrait of a Graduate goals and how we can actually measure them✅ Why Aman looks at life experiences when hiring—not justthe resume✅ A deeper look at equity in education from both U.S. and Canadian perspectives✅ How AI can act as a thought partner for teachers, students, and even parents✅ Why building with empathy is at the heart of all great edtech💡 One Big Idea:AI isn’t here to replace us—it’s here to support us. When used the right way, it doesn’t just save time. It helps us focus on what matters most: building relationships, developing human skills, and making learning meaningful.🎯 Quick Takeaways:Portrait of a Graduate goals can finally be tracked—withoutadding to your workloadPersonalized AI tools can help students express themselvesin ways they never could beforeYou don’t need to throw out what’s working—AI builds on what you already doKids will open up when they feel safe—and sometimes thatstarts with a chatbot🔗 Resources & Links:Try out Factors Education: https://www.factors.worldConnect with Aman on LinkedIn: [Search Aman O. Sahota]Email Aman: [email protected] Factors on BlueSky: @factorsEDULearn more: Canadian Council of Black Elder Trailblazers📣 Call to Action:If you haven’t tried AI yet, don’t wait. Start small. Ask it to help you write an email or tweak a lesson plan. It’s not about replacing what you do—it’s about helping you focus on the work that really matters. And if you liked this episode, share it and tag me using #TechEdClubhouse—I’d love to hearwhat you think

Episode Summary:In this episode of The TechEd Clubhouse Podcast, I sit down with the one and only Frankie Baker — better known online as @BaconEdTech. Frankie shares her journey from classroom teacher to digital learning coach and now into her new role as Community Manager for Robolink, where she’s leading ambassador programs and helping educators bring drones and coding into their classrooms.We talk all things EdTech, coaching strategies, AI tools for teachers, and how building authentic connections is the key to transforming teaching and learning. From personalized PD to embracing FOMO for good, Frankie drops practical advice for educators looking to lead, innovate, and grow.Plus — hear the story behind the legendary "Bacon EdTech" name!________________________________________What You’ll Hear in This Episode:• Frankie’s journey from math teacher to digital learning coach to EdTech community leader• The origin story of “Bacon EdTech” (it’s as good as you’d hope)• What a Digital Learning Coach really does day-to-day• How to support teachers without overwhelming them• The power of personalized professional development• How to respond to the dreaded “But we’ve always done it this way…”• Our favorite AI tools for educators — and why it’s time to start paying for them• Tips for organizing resources using Wakelet• Why connecting with other educators online is a game-changer• A sneak peek into Frankie’s new role with Robolink and how drones are engaging students in new ways________________________________________Tools & Resources Mentioned:• Robolink: https://www.robolink.com/• Wakelet: https://wakelet.com/@BaconEdTech• MagicSchool AI: https://www.magicschool.ai/• Brisk Teaching: https://www.briskteaching.com/• Canva (AI features): https://www.canva.com/• Perplexity AI: https://www.perplexity.ai/________________________________________Connect with Frankie Baker:Twitter/X: @BaconEdTechWakelet Profile: https://wakelet.com/@BaconEdTechLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankie-baker/Email: [email protected]________________________________________Connect with Dan Thomas:Twitter/X: @CoachThomasTechBlog: https://coachthomastech.com/blogPodcast Archive: https://coachthomastech.com/podcast________________________________________Final Takeaway:If you’re an educator passionate about helping people, building relationships, and creating learning experiences that matter — coaching might just be your next calling. And whether you’re teaching students or teaching teachers — keep playing, keep exploring, and never stop learning.

🎙️ Episode Title: Getting Out of Your Own Way – with Kathy Hart Wood Hey friends, welcome back to The Tech Ed ClubhousePodcast! In this episode, I sat down with mental golf coach and all-around mindset ninja, Kathy Hart Wood. We explored the mental side of performance—not just in golf, but in the classroom, in life, and everything in between. Kathy brings decades of experience from the golf world, butwhat really struck me is how transferable her lessons are to educators and students. We dug into how managing your mind and emotions is a life skill, not just a sports strategy. Some highlights from our conversation:⛳ Kathy’s journey from professional golfer to mindset coach🧠 The “STEAR” model she uses to help athletes (and students!) manage thoughts and emotions🐹 Why she compares our brains to hamster cages—and how to calm the chaos🖐️ Simple 15-second sensory drills you can use to bring calm and clarity before a test or performance💡Why learning to feel calm, certain, and confident beats chasing perfection every time🧩How embracing the process (not just the outcome) leads to deeper learning and better results🎯The danger of tying identity to a number—whether it's a golf score or a test grade Whether you're a teacher, coach, golfer, or just a humantrying to get better every day, this episode is packed with practical mindset tools. Kathy’s wisdom had me nodding and taking notes the whole time. Resources & Links:🎧 Kathy’s podcast: Think Above Par – short, powerful episodes on mental game mastery🌐 Visit her website and coaching programs at kathyhartwood.com📲 Connect with Kathy on Instagram: @kathyhartwood (highly recommend following!) Thanks for tuning in—don’t forget to share this episode witha fellow teacher, coach, or parent who needs to hear it. And if you try out any of Kathy’s mindset tips with your students, let me know how it goes!

Guest: Heather Brantley (@HeatherTechEdu)Host: Dan Thomas (@CoachThomasTech)🔥 Episode SummaryIn this episode, I sit down with the energetic andinspiring Heather Brantley, former math and CTE teacher turned teacher advocate at Curipod. From a surprise return to teaching after her son's second-grade independence moment to becoming a powerful voice for educatorsacross the globe, Heather shares her journey of rediscovering her passion for education—and how Curipod became a game-changer in her classroom and now in her career.Together, we explore how Curipod uses AI toenhance student voice, classroom engagement, and teacher efficiency, while maintaining a strong focus on relationships, equity, and teacher empowerment.🧠 What You’ll LearnHeather’s journey from stay-at-home mom to classroom rockstar to edtech advocateHow Curipod empowers every student voice withinteractive and anonymous participationWhy AI in education isn’t about replacement—it’s about enhancement and supportHow Curipod’s built-in feedback tools offer real-time,growth-oriented responses for studentsThe power of student reflection, anonymity, andcollaborative learningHow Curipod integrates with existing tools like Canva,Google Slides, and Chrome extensionsNew features, including ELL support, state-alignedtest prep, and asynchronous PD coursesWhy Curipod works for every subject—including math, STEM, and CTETips for getting started with Curipod, even if you'retech-reluctant🛠️ Tools & Features MentionedCuripod’s AI Lesson Generator – Create a 45-minuteinteractive lesson in under 3 minutesDrawing + Whiteboard Tool – Let students show theirwork and get AI-generated feedbackBuilt-in Voting, Polls, Word Clouds, and Reflections“Purify Slides” Feature – Upload your old lessons andtransform them into interactive experiencesStandards-Aligned Content for Texas, California, NewYork, and moreInstant Student Feedback and Growth PromptsFake Name Login + Privacy Protection for safe andequitable participation💬 Quotes Worth Sharing“An exhausted teacher can’t support students at their fullpotential. Let us help you get your time—and your joy—back.” – Heather Brantley“Curipod isn’t replacing teachers. It’s supporting them todo what they do best—with more creativity and connection.” – Dan Thomas🔗 Links & Resources🔗 Curipod.com📧 Email Heather: [email protected]🐦 Follow Heather: @HeatherTechEdu🐦 Follow Dan: @CoachThomasTech💡 Try This!👉 Want to see Curipod in action? Create a free account, generate a lesson with a single prompt, and experience what it’s like to get every student involved in seconds.🔔 Subscribe & ReviewIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with a felloweducator, leave us a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review, and be sure tosubscribe so you never miss an episode of The Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast.

In this international edition of the Tech Ed Clubhouse, I amjoined by Jason Reagin, an experienced educator currently teaching in Beijing, China. From his roots in Georgia to international classrooms across Korea, Bermuda, and China, Jason shares his journey through design, technology, andthe evolving world of education.With over two decades of experience in international IBschools, Jason dives deep into the power of inquiry-based learning, the flexibility and challenges of teaching in diverse global classrooms, and the importance of building soft skills and student agency through design tech education.🔍 Topics Covered:Jason’s global teaching journey: From Atlanta to China viaKorea and BermudaTransition from Industrial Arts to Design TechInside look at the IB framework and what makes it uniqueWhy student voice and choice matter more than everHow international schools handle assessment, project-based learning, and soft skillsThe rising trend of gap years and what it means for student wellnessCandid thoughts on student mental health post-COVIDlockdownsEmbracing discomfort, cultural collisions, and growth indiverse classroomsThe importance of teacher-student relationships inthe AI eraUsing LinkedIn and podcasting to connect with educatorsglobally🎯 Jason’s Takeaways for Educators:Provide Student Choice: Let students show what theyknow in a way that suits them—video, presentation, debate, or design project.Shift the Role: Move from deliverer of content tofacilitator of inquiry. Ask more, tell less.Know Your Students: Especially in the age of AI,relationships are your best detection tool.Look Beyond Grades: Focus on growth,performance-based tasks, and holistic assessment.📚 Resources & Links:🎧 Jason’s Podcast: Design Cast🔗 Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: Jason Reagin📖 Jason’s Book: The Future of Learning – Designing Innovation Spaces that Transform Schools & Inspire Tomorrow’s Leaders💬 Quote of the Episode:“Inquiry-based teaching is in my DNA—but helping othersget comfortable with controlled chaos is where the real work begins.” – Jason Reagin🚀 Connect with Us:🎙️ Host: Dan Thomas – @CoachThomasTech💻 Website: coachthomastech.com📣 Hashtag: #TechEdClubhouse👀 Like this episode?Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with your fellow educators. Let’s reimagine education—one conversation at a time.

Guest: Jeanette MihalchikHost: Dan ThomasIn this episode:Jeanette Mihalchik shares insights from her 26 years as anelementary music teacher.The importance of play-based learning to keep studentsengaged.How to balance structure with creative and playful classroomactivities.Practical ways to introduce vocabulary through experientiallearning.Tips for incorporating student choice and autonomy to boostengagement.Thoughts on using AI as a creative educational tool.Actionable Ideas:Start lessons with engaging, experiential activities todeepen understanding.Observe and use student interests to inform lesson planning.Experiment with simple props and playful activities forimmediate engagement.Connect with Jeanette Mihalchik:Website: thehappymusicteacher.comFacebook https://www.facebook.com/thehappymusicteacherInstagram https://www.instagram.com/thehappymusicteacherResources: thehappymusicteacher.com/shopDon't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

In this episode, I’m joined by Peter Hoststrasser and Alli Dahl from the Disrupt Education Podcast to talk about shaking up the traditional education system. Peter and Alli have been leading conversations around innovation, student voice, and breaking away from outdated methods in the classroom. We dive into overcoming fear in education, embracing change, and the power of play in learning. We also explore how rural and local communities can be the real drivers of educational transformation—and why failure should be something students experience more often, not less.What We Talked About:✔ Why so many teachers fear change—and how to move past it✔ The outdated mindset that’s still holding education back✔ How failure and iteration help students build resilience✔ Why real change in education happens at the local level✔ The power of play in learning—yes, even in middle and high school!✔ Why we need to involve students in solving real-world problemsMeet My Guests:🎙️ Peter Hoststrasser – 23-year educator, CTE/business teacher, internship coordinator, and co-host of the Disrupt Education Podcast. He’s passionate about hands-on learning and connecting students with real-world experiences.🎙️ Alli Dahl – Former chemistry teacher turned skydiving instructor (yes, really!). She brings a fresh perspective on overcoming fear, rethinking education, and getting students to push beyond their comfort zones.🖥️ Check Out the Disrupt Education Podcast:🌍 DisruptEducation Podcast 🔗 Follow Peter & Alli on LinkedIn:Peter HoststrasserAlli DahlWhere to Find Me📲 Twitter/X: @CoachThomasTech🎧 Subscribe to The Tech Ed Clubhouse Podcast: [Your Podcast Link]🔗 Website & Blog: CoachThomasTech.comJoin the Conversation!🚀 How are YOU disrupting education? Tag me @CoachThomasTech and use #TechEdClubhouse & #DisruptEducation to share your thoughts!: