EdTech Bites Podcast

What do flip-flops, beachfront views, and cutting-edge edtech have in common? They're all part of the Elementary Technology Conference in Galveston, Texas! In this episode, Jeannine Freeman from TCEA joins us to dish on why this event is a must for educators looking to blend sunshine with professional growth. In this special episode, you'll find out what makes this conference unlike any other—and why it might just become your favorite PD getaway. Learn More And Register For The Elementary Technology Conference Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Jeannine Freeman As TCEA's partnerships and events manager, Jeannine Freeman plays a vital role in planning many of the events the organization's 85,000 members know and love. Each year, Jeannine manages speakers and their content for the System and Network Administrators Conference, the TCEA Convention and Exposition, and the Elementary Technology Conference (ETC). As a previous elementary educator, her heart beats for this niche population, which makes ETC one of her favorite events to plan and attend. Connect With Jeannine and TCEA Jeannine On X: https://x.com/TechTimeWithJ9 Jeannine On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/techtimewithj9.bsky.social Jeannine On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/J9Freeman7 TCEA Website: https://tcea.org/ Elementary Technology Conference Website: https://tcea.org/events/etc/

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com What happens when a sign language teacher drops deep wisdom, witty moments, and some poop jokes all in one conversation? You get this episode! Join us as we sit down with Melanie Cockrell — high school ASL and computer science teacher from New Haven, Michigan — to explore what it really means to teach American Sign Language in today's tech-savvy classrooms. From the misconceptions of ASL to how tech tools like Flipgrid (RIP) and ASLdeafined help students express themselves without the stage fright, Melanie brings clarity and passion to a language often misunderstood. Bonus: you'll find out how body language is basically punctuation in ASL and why Melanie signs at graduation... even when no one asks her to. If you've ever wondered how educational technology meets a visual language — or just want to hear a teacher talk about “having the runs” with a straight face — this episode is for you. About Melanie Cochrill Melanie is finishing her 20th year of teaching. She has taught at every level from kindergarten through college, and charter, parochial, and public schools. She currently teaches ASL and Computer Science classes in person at New Haven High School, in New Haven, Michigan, and online for Michigan Virtual. Melanie and her husband of over 20 years have 4 children ranging from tenth grade down to second grade, and three little kittens they adopted. Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com What happens when an introverted educator steps out solo into her first massive edtech conference? Magic. In this episode, I chat with Courney Deadman, a special education teacher who took on MACUL for the very first time—and didn't just survive, she thrived. From productivity tips for students with special needs to bold moves like joining The EdTech Bites Food Tour full of strangers, she shares strategies for note-taking, daily planning, and making meaningful connections (without burning out). If you're nervous about navigating a big conference, this episode has your back. About Courtney Deadman Courtney is a Special Education Teacher currently teaching K-5 Resource room. She has been teaching for 20 years and has taught all grades K-12. Courtney currently teaches in Traverse City, Michigan at Cherry Knoll Elementary. Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com What's the secret ingredient to thriving as an educator? Spoiler alert: it's not another strategy or tool—it's relationships. In this heart-filled episode, we're joined by a special guest who's been to every walking food tour we've hosted (yes, every single one!) and has seen firsthand the lasting friendships and professional growth that have come from breaking bread together. We explore:

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com What does student work look like in the era of AI? In this episode, I chat with Ron Madison, Instructional Technologist & Designer at Genesee Intermediate School District. We explore the evolving landscape of student assignments as artificial intelligence tools become more accessible. Join us as we unpack what ethical AI use looks like in the classroom, how to help students evaluate AI-generated responses, and practical strategies to teach AI literacy. This conversation is packed with insight, humor, and real-world examples you can use right away. Buen provecho! About Ron Madison Ronald A. Madison is an Instructional Technologist and Designer for the Genesee Intermediate School District in Flint, Michigan. He has worked in public education for over 30 years. He enjoys connecting with new groups and people across the United States face-to-face and virtually, including working with International Keynote Speaker Kevin Honeycutt. He has sat on the Executive Board of Directors as the Treasurer for multiple terms with the Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning (MACUL). Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Ron Madison Ron On X: https://x.com/madison_ron Ron On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ronmadison.bsky.social

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com In this episode, we're joined by an AI strategist from Michigan Virtual who shares what it really takes to build an AI task force, plan for student AI use, and adapt to the evolving role of artificial intelligence in education. Whether you're just starting to explore AI integration or you're already drafting district policy, this conversation will help guide your next steps. What You'll Learn: Why forming an AI task force isn't just for tech directors How to get buy-in across departments Tips for responsibly planning student AI use What's changing in education—and what's staying the same Michigan Virtual's perspective on supporting districts at scale Karle also shares some great anecdotes from the classroom and these defining moments were birthed from the district having an AI taskforce. Buen provecho! About Karle Delo AI Strategist, PD Provider, and Speaker | Empowering Educators to Save Time & Enhance Instruction with Artificial Intelligence. She's a part of Michigan Virtual and is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to AI literacy. Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Karle And Michigan Virtual Karle's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/coachkarle Michigan Virtual Website: https://michiganvirtual.org/

This episode is sponsored by Knowt — the AI-powered classroom tool that goes way beyond plug-and-chug. From turning your lessons into notes and practice to creating a custom chatbot based on your lecture, Knowt helps you and your students work smarter and stay privacy-compliant. To get started, visit www.knowt.com What if creating study guides and student resources took minutes instead of hours? In this episode, I sit down with Abheek Pandoh, CEO and founder of Knowt, the all-in-one platform designed to simplify the lives of teachers and students. Abheek shares the inspiring story behind Knowt's creation, how the platform has evolved, and why data privacy and customization are top priorities. Learn how Knowt can be tailored to meet your district's unique needs—helping you spend less time on prep and more time on what matters most: connecting with your students. This conversation is packed with practical insights you won't want to miss. Buen provecho! About Abheek Pandoh Abheek is the CEO and co-founder of Knowt. He started the company as a senior in high school, and handles the financial/business operations as well as the product design. Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Abheek and Knowt Knowt Website: https://www.knowt.com Abheek On X: https://x.com/AbheekPandoh Abheek On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abheek_panda/

This episode is sponsored by Brisk Teaching. To learn more and get started, visit www.briskteaching.com. What does it take to go from passionate educator to sought-after speaker? At TCEA 2025, I sat down with three incredible presenters to talk about their journey to success, the hustle behind the scenes, and how passion fuels everything we do. Along the way, our paths crossed, and now, we're officially “The Tech Thrillas”—a powerhouse team with more to come! Tune in for an inspiring conversation about growth, grit, and making an impact in the world of edtech. Buen Provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Jorge Valenzuela Jorge Valenzuela is a respected performance and education coach, author, and speaker at Lifelong Learning Defined. His mission is to empower educators to lead confidently and teach with greater effectiveness. Specializing in instructional innovation and action research, Jorge provides expert training in team building, core instruction, project-based learning (PBL), STEM pathways, entrepreneurship, and life skills integration. Partnering with Corwin, he helps schools systematically enhance instructional practices and adopt innovative teaching strategies, including PBL. He is a published researcher and author who also hosts the Lifelong Learning Defined podcast, sharing insights and strategies to inspire and support educators. Connect With Jorge Valenzuela Life Long Learning Defined Website: https://www.lifelonglearningdefined.com/ Jorge On X: https://x.com/JorgeDoesPBL?lang=en Jorge On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jorgedoespbl/ Jorge On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LifelongLearningDefined/ Life Long Learning Defined On Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lifelong-learning-defined-podcast-for-self-improvement/id1647222488 About Jean Darnell Jean is the Library Director for the School District of Philadelphia, an AI expert, phenomenal storyteller, the best awakened librarian the world has to offer and the curator of the instructional website: https://awakenlibrarian.com. She's a born and raised Texan educator with almost 25 years experience. Giving voice to the voiceless, Jean is a natural born advocate. Her heroes are Barbara Jordan, Nina Simone, Eartha Kitt, authors Tomi Adeyemi and Angie Thomas. One of her first love is music, as she's a classically trained cellist. Connect With Jean Darnell Jean's Website: https://awakenlibrarian.com Jean On X: https://x.com/awakenlibrarian Jean On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awaken.librarian/ Jean On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eboni.darnell/ Jean On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/awakenlibrarian.bsky.social About Andre Daughty Andre Daughty is a highly acclaimed keynote speaker known for his expertise in transforming education and inspiring positive change. With over two decades of experience, he has made a significant impact on tens of thousands of educators and students and well over 400 schools as an educator, facilitator, speaker, and workshop presenter. He is recognized for his ability to captivate audiences with his dynamic speaking style and thought-provoking insights. Connect With Andre Daughty Andre's Website: https://www.andredaughty.org/ Andre On X: https://twitter.com/andredaughty Andre On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andredaughty/ Andre On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-daughty-8878b297 Andre On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AndreDaughty/featured Andre On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andre.daughty

This episode is sponsored by Brisk Teaching. To learn more and get started, visit www.briskteaching.com. Is creativity vanishing from our classrooms? With the pressure to cover content, many teachers feel like there's no time for creative exploration. But what if creativity and content didn't have to compete? In this episode, I sit down with Monica Roach, an expert in innovative teaching, to debunk the myth that creativity is fading. She shares practical, easy-to-implement strategies that infuse creativity into daily lessons—without sacrificing content. Tune in and bring creativity back where it belongs! Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Monica Roach Monica Roach is an Instructional Technology Specialist in Virginia, recognized for her innovative approach to integrating technology in education. She is dedicated to empowering teachers and students with meaningful, intentional tech use. Monica loves leading professional development workshops at local, state, and national levels, fostering digital citizenship and culturally responsive teaching. Passionate about collaboration, she co-teaches lessons, models best practices, and designs engaging learning experiences that enhance student success. In her free time she loves to read, travel, and crochet! Connect With Monica Roach Monica On X: https://x.com/MonicaRoach15 Monica On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/monicaroach15.bsky.social

  This episode is sponsored by Brisk Teaching. To learn more and get started, visit www.briskteaching.com.     After a whirlwind of edtech, learning strategies, and the hustle of the expo hall at TCEA 2025, we decided to mix things up with a fun, lighthearted challenge—EdTech & Food Trivia!

This episode is sponsored by Brisk Teaching. To learn more and get started, visit www.briskteaching.com.   Live from TCEA 2025, we're bringing you an electrifying discussion on "The Price We Pay for AI" with special guests Brianna Hodges and Carl Hooker. This is TCEA's first EVER live podcast as a concurrent session so we had a live audience in front of us. We tackle AI literacy, the dangers of over-reliance, and whether AI is making us less creative. And because we like to keep things spicy—literally—we threw in a hot sauce challenge and some food trivia! Tune in for a mix of deep insights, audience engagement, and a little bit of heat. Because of the live audience, the energy in the room was unmatched and Brianna and Carl made this episode much more special and spicy. You'll hear the energy while listening to this episode. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Brianna Hodges Learner. Listener. Leader. Storyteller. Texas EdTech of the Year (2017). K12 Administrator to Watch (2018). National Advisor and Spokesperson for Future Ready Instructional Coaches. An experienced school and district leader with a superpower for storytelling (Bri spent 10+ years as a PR exec) and developing capacity, Brianna works with school districts across the country to transform learning for all ages and stages. Let's rewrite the story of what school has been and provide purpose to practice, and institute innovative change together. Connect With Brianna Hodges Brianna's Website: https://www.briannahodges.com Brianna On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/bhodgesedu.bsky.social Brianna On X: https://www.x.com/bhodgesEDU Brianna On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bhodgesedu/ About Carl Hooker Carl Hooker is a 25-year educator from Austin, TX. He's an 8-time author, 5-time podcast host, 2-time bar owner, 3-time father, and 1-time husband. His latest book, Learning Evolution tackles the challenges of AI-enhanced learning and empowers teachers to leverage this new technology in creative ways for learning. He identifies as a pizza-lover, with a regular household debate between Detroit-style and New York-style. Connect With Carl Hooker Carl's Website: https://CarlHooker.com Carl's Blog: https://hookedoninnovation.com/ Carl On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hookertech.bsky.social Carl On X: https://twitter.com/mrhooker Carl On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hookertech/

This episode is sponsored by Brisk Teaching. To learn more and get started, visit www.briskteaching.com   In this episode, we're joined by Brenda Gutierrez, Student Services Coordinator at Ysleta de Sur Pueblo Department Of Tribal Empowerment in El Paso, Texas. She shares her first experience attending TCEA 2025. We dive into her mission to bring engaging STEM ideas back to her organization and discuss her newfound excitement for integrating podcasting into professional development. From key conference takeaways to actionable steps for starting a podcasting initiative, this conversation will inspire you to innovate and experiment in your own teaching or leadership role. Connect With Gabriel Carrillo - EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com/ - EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social - EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites - EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites - EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites - EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites - EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites

This episode is sponsored by Brisk Teaching. To learn more and get started, visit www.briskteaching.com. Ever feel like there just aren't enough hours in the day to plan lessons, grade assignments, and still have time to breathe? In today's episode, I chat with Suvi Gluskin, Head of Marketing and Community for Brisk Teaching. We dive into Brisk Teaching—the AI-powered Chrome extension that's here to change the game for educators. Suvi shares how Brisk streamlines your teaching tasks, make differentiation a breeze, and frees up your time for what truly matters: connecting with students. Buen Provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Suvi Gluskin Suvi Gluskin is the Head of Marketing at Brisk Teaching, the most popular AI-powered Chrome Extension for educators, helping over 1 million teachers save 10-20 hours per week. Brisk seamlessly integrates with educators' existing tools to support differentiation, content creation, feedback, and writing authentication. Prior to Brisk, Suvi spent seven years leading Community at Seesaw Learning and previously worked at PBS KIDS. She holds degrees in Music and Child Development from Carnegie Mellon University. Connect With Suvi and Brisk Teaching Suvi On X: https://x.com/suviatbrisk Brisk Teaching Website: https://www.briskteaching.com Brisk Teaching Chrome Webstore: https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/brisk-teaching-–-ai-assis/pcblbflgdkdfdjpjifeppkljdnaekohj?hl=en&pli=1 Brisk Teaching On X: https://www.x.com/briskteaching Brisk Teaching On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briskteaching Brisk Teaching On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/briskteaching.bsky.social Brisk Teaching On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brisk-teaching/ Brisk Teaching On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briskteaching/ Brisk Teaching Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/briskeducators/

*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here! What happens when a group of passionate educators comes together to spark change? In this episode, I sit down with Larisa Black, Heather Brown, Farmer Faubs, and Christie Cloud, the four of the founding members of the EduGuardians. We discuss how their movement started, why they're so dedicated to supporting educators, and the driving force behind their mission. From inspiration to action, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered and ready to make an impact in your own educational community. Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About The EduGuardians EduGuardians strive to lead in educational technology, empowering educators to connect, share ideas, and build community. Our mission is to utilize edtech for impactful and engaging student learning experiences. We foster a dynamic, collaborative network for educators to innovate, grow, and inspire, enhancing education for all students. Connect With The EduGuardians EduGuardian Website: https://www.eduguardian5.com EduGuardians On X: https://x.com/EduGuardian5 EduGuardians On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/eduguardian5.bsky.social EduGuardians On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eduguardian5/

*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here! How do we blend tried-and-true teaching strategies with cutting-edge AI? In this episode, I chat with the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, Kristin and Joe Merrill AKA Kroe, about their latest book The InterACTIVE Class: Creation in a World of AI: Empowering Educators to Inspire Creativity and Innovation in an AI-Driven Classroom. They share timeless teaching strategies while incorporating AI—all through their signature interACTIVE approach. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a teaching purist, this episode will show you how to strike the perfect balance between innovation and effective instruction. Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About The Merrill's Kristin and Joe are teachers and authors of the InterACTIVE Class series. Together, they put a spin on traditional strategies by infusing EdTech with learning that meets the needs of all students. Connect With The Merrill's The Merrill's Website: www.themerrillsedu.com The Merrill's On X: www.x.com/TheMerrillsEDU The Merrill's On Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheMerrillsEDU The Merrill's On Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheMerrillsEDU “The InterACTIVE Class: Creation in a World of AI: Empowering Educators to Inspire Creativity and Innovation in an AI-Driven Classroom” On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/InterACTIVE-Class-Empowering-Creativity-Innovation/dp/B0DR9J6VKZ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=28FB0YCSWBPM1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Mr4ZmPa2ddIveLZ91XKcdNedXJqACQE9asdmrv7nDIPt3ogXUH4wfHkcILkGOC8gR2rgiQiVniSzj-kAQ9bRRlZ3XMqygwcrxuGgP4Lk4dozTMohBwgBZMu_3FL7WrH_77NtfZJG29DRmS5K3Aq0broXPrDLLYshBUcHKHNXz-Lz75WxDtyQ8_35dCmZdwpNpPCpGhavqosWgQXPQ3-vaPwphWd2FwWQYNAFgSQkkQQ.J0cPLu-_z-cAz5gpwO8ka6E43zND4RLhuspDjKSloIM&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+interactive+classroom&qid=1737436934&sprefix=the+interactive%2Caps%2C130&sr=8-1

*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here! Are Legos just toys, or are they powerful tools for learning? In this inspiring episode, I chat with Dan Thomas, a middle school STEM teacher known for using Legos to spark creativity and enhance student learning. We explore how these colorful bricks encourage Creativity, Critical Thinking, Collaboration, and Communication—all while making learning fun! Whether you're a Lego enthusiast or a skeptic, you'll discover how they can transform your classroom into a hands-on, engaging learning environment. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Dan Thomas Dan is a STEM teacher from Jamestown NY which is south of Buffalo. He has been teaching for 32 years at the same school that he graduated from. He is passionate about STEM Topics, PBL and play in the classroom. His goal is for students to understand and learn how to apply their knowledge and skills because that is where the true learning happens. Connect With Dan Thomas Dan's Website: www.coachthomastech.com Dan On X: https://x.com/coachthomastech Dan On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachthomastech/ Dan On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558624504932 Dan On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/coachthomastech.bsky.social Dan On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachthomastech/

*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here! What's driving you (and your students) crazy in the world of edtech? In this fun and honest episode, I sit down with Katie Fielding and Stevie Frank to unpack our biggest edtech pet peeves. We discuss the amazing innovations happening in classrooms, but also the frustrating trends and missteps that make us cringe. From tech overload to pointless tools, we're sharing it all—plus tips on how to make edtech work for you, not against you! Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Katie Fielding Katie Fielding is an Accessibility Advocate, ISTE Certified Trainer, and the Educational Content Manager at Book Creator. She has 20 years of public school experience. She champions digital accessibility, creativity, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in classrooms. Specializing in technology and STEM integration, Katie creates interdisciplinary instructional experiences and shares her expertise through presentations and workshops. Recognized as VSTE Coach of the Year in 2018 and a featured voice at ISTELive 2024, she holds multiple certifications, including ISTE, Google Innovator, and Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert. Outside work, she enjoys cheese and exploring Scandinavia. Connect With Katie Fielding Katie's Website: https://www.katiefielding.com Katie On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katief/ Katie On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/katiefielding.com Katie On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fieldingnotes About Stevie Frank Stevie Frank (she/her) is a Digital Learning Coach at her school in Zionsville, Indiana. Stevie has 15 years of education background and earned her master's degree in Literacy Education. She's a part of Ed Tech Magazine's top 30 K-12 Influencers to follow for 2023. When she's not learning to become an educator for ALL students, she's marking off travels with her family. Connect With Stevie Frank Stevie's Website: steviefrank.com Stevie On X: https://x.com/steviefrank23 Stevie On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/steviefrank.bsky.social

*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here! Are you feeling the weight of burnout or wondering how to rekindle your love for teaching? In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Brittany Blackwell, an educator dedicated to helping teachers nourish their mind, body, and soul. She shares her powerful story of learning to pivot when faced with exhaustion, offering practical strategies to reignite your passion and embrace teaching with renewed energy. She also hosts The Resilient Teacher Podcast where she gives teachers ways to pivot from burnout to building resiliency to ensure they are at their best for their students. Tune in for an uplifting conversation that will remind you why you fell in love with teaching in the first place! Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Brittany Blackwell Brittany Blackwell, M.Ed., is an an award winning special educator and teacher burnout & sustainability strategist from South Carolina. With over thirteen years of experience in elementary and middle school classrooms, Brittany has become an expert in addressing teacher burnout. She is also the host of the popular podcast "The Resilient Teacher Podcast". Brittany is passionate about empowering teachers and educational leaders to prioritize their mental health. She helps them develop personalized sustainability and burnout recovery plans, reducing stress and creating the fulfilling lives they've always dreamed of. Through her digital approach, which includes automation, digital planning, vision planning, and sustainable strategies, Brittany has reached thousands of educators worldwide. You may know Brittany as "MsPrincessTeach" on TikTok, where her social media following grew through her fast-paced, lighthearted tutorials and relatable real-life experiences. She offers teachers actionable strategies, personalized coaching, mindset shifting, and digital resources to create their own Individualized Burnout Recovery Plan. By reducing stress and automating mundane tasks, Brittany enables educators to prevent burnout and maximize fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives. Connect With Brittany Blackwell Brittany's Website: http://www.teachingmindbodyandsoul.com Brittany On X: https://x.com/resilientteachr Brittany On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/brittanyblackwell.bsky.social Brittany On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/TeachingMindBodyandSoul The Resilient Teacher Podcast On Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-resilient-teacher-podcast/id1619401632 The Resilient Teacher Podcast On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Iypd8MWzyl5yAaPJlmyjk?si=mhPixst5S6uxCPzz4XGZOA

*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here! What's the secret to a thriving classroom? In this episode, we explore the power of building strong relationships with students before diving into content. Join me and Jess Boyce, yes…Jess from Flip (RIP, Flip) as we discuss why connections matter, how they impact learning, and practical ways to foster meaningful relationships in your classroom. From simple daily practices to transformative mindset shifts, this episode is packed with ideas to help you create a more connected and engaged learning environment. Buen Provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Jess Boyce Jess On X: https://x.com/jessxbo Jess On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/jessxbo.bsky.social Jess On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessxbo/

*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here! What does personalized learning really look like in today's classrooms? In this episode, I'm joined by Michelle Manning, who shares her insights on the transformative power of personalized learning. She breaks down what personalized learning means, why it's essential for student success, and how she helps teachers bring it to life in their classrooms. From practical tips to real-world examples, Michelle offers actionable strategies to create learning experiences tailored to every student's unique needs. Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Michelle Manning Michelle Manning is an Instructional Technology Integration Specialist and has worked in education for over 30 years. She is passionate about leveraging technology to amplify and enhance the curriculum to make lessons accessible for all students in the classroom to learn and show what they know! Michelle emphasizes personalized learning, professional development, and the integration of innovative tools and strategies in the classroom. Her work often involves providing training and support for teachers to utilize technology in ways that meet diverse learner needs. Michelle also loves supporting teachers helping them utilize technology as their digital co-teacher to save time and transform their classrooms. Connect With Michelle Manning Michelle on X: https://x.com/ManningTechTalk Michelle On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manningtechtalk/ Michelle On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ManningTechTalk/ Michelle On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/manningtechtalk.bsky.social

*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here! What's better than discovering an edtech tool that makes your teaching life easier? Sharing it with a friend! In this episode, we sit down with the ever-insightful Greg Bagby to trade notes on our favorite new edtech finds. Greg introduces us to Notebook LM, a next-level AI-powered notetaking assistant, while I dive into Class Companion, a versatile tool designed to facilitate student writing feedback through AI. Join us for a fun, practical conversation filled with tips, tricks, and plenty of “Why didn't I think of that?” moments. If you're looking to level up your tech toolkit, this episode is for you! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Greg Greg is the Coordinator of Instructional Technology in Hamilton County schools in Chattanooga, TN. He is about to finish a contract as an Apple Professional Learning specialist. He served on the Technical Working Group for the National Education Technology Plan and hopes to graduate soon with a Ph.D. in Instructional Technology. Connect With Greg Bagby Greg On X: https://x.com/Gregbagby Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregbagby/ Greg On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100048828346605 Greg On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gregbagby.bsky.social

*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here! What's it like to attend your first major edtech conference? In this episode, I sit down with Roy Francis, a music and French teacher from Nova Scotia, who attended his first-ever FETC conference. We discuss his initial expectations, how he and his team planned their conference experience, and the strategies they used to maximize their learning. Roy also shares how he integrates edtech into his curriculum, from engaging students in music composition to enhancing language acquisition in French. Whether you're a conference veteran or gearing up for your first big event, you'll find plenty of insights and inspiration in this conversation. And you'll know what we mean when he states, “What would Peter Rackam do?”. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Roy Francis Roy teaches junior high general music at a school in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. In his classes, he teaches music theory and history while also helping students learn to write and perform songs on the ukulele. He is passionate about using technology in education and strives to incorporate it into all aspects of his teaching. Recently, he completed his Master's in Educational Technology and is excited to be part of the AI lead team in the Halifax Regional Centre for Education. Connect With Roy Francis Roy On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mrfrancis.bsky.social

*This episode is sponsored by Class Companion. To learn more and get started, Click Here! Are you ready to reclaim your time and supercharge student learning? In this episode, recorded live at FETC 2025, we sit down with Avery Pan (Co-Founder) and Brittany Blackwell (Marketing and Community Lead) of Class Companion to explore how their innovative platform saves teachers hours of work and provides timely insights into student progress. Discover how you can spend less time grading and more time engaging with your students. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or instructional coach, this conversation will inspire you to rethink what's possible in the classroom. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Class Companion Class Companion Website Class Companion On X Class Companion On Instagram Class Companion On Bluesky

Today's episode is brought to you by Colleague AI. Colleague AI can create new ideas and help teachers brainstorm ideas, create unique lesson plans, new high level rubrics, and grade homework with ease. Colleague AI is also able to manage administrative tasks with parental controls to help students succeed with ease. To learn more and get started, visit www.colleague.ai   As educators, the start of a new year often comes with ambitious plans to do it all. But what if less is more? In this episode, I dive into the power of simplicity in lesson planning for 2025. Learn how focusing on one or two impactful activities per week can not only reduce your stress but also enhance your students' learning outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or just starting out, this episode will help you embrace intentional planning for a smoother, more effective classroom experience. Plus, stick around for a simple yet delicious recipe that perfectly illustrates the "less is more" philosophy—Chicken, Rice, and Squash Bowl. With protein-packed chicken, hearty rice, and the natural sweetness of roasted squash, this dish is a healthy, balanced meal that will leave you inspired to simplify your teaching and your cooking! What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why overplanning can overwhelm both teachers and students. How to design focused lesson plans that drive deeper understanding. Practical examples of "less is more" teaching strategies for concepts like the water cycle or literary themes. A minimalist recipe (Chicken, Rice, and Squash Bowl) to bring the "less is more" concept to life in the kitchen. How simplifying your approach can reduce stress and increase classroom impact. Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites

Calling all educators! Feeling burnt out before Thanksgiving even hits? This episode's for you! In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Matthew Joseph of X-Factor EDU, Jon Laven, and Jeff Plourd of Snorkl.app to get you pumped for the X-Factor EDU Virtual 5K Turkey Trot sponsored by Snorkl! This fun, FREE event is all about educator wellness, giving you a chance to prioritize your health and connect with fellow teachers from around the world. We dive deep into: How the Turkey Trot came to be Why Snorkl is on board as a sponsor Training tips to get you ready for race day (or walk day!) How to sign up and join the virtual fun! Plus, learn how you can score some sweet prizes just for participating! Don't miss out! Head over to xfactor.link/trot to register and get ready to move your body this Thanksgiving break! This episode is perfect for any teacher, administrator, or educator looking to boost their wellbeing and connect with their amazing community.

Make sure you purchase a copy of my book Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons from Amazon. Why are so many educators flocking to Bluesky? In this episode, Alice Keeler shares her journey to Bluesky, how it champions data privacy, and why it's the next big thing for social media in edtech. Learn how Bluesky empowers educators, its unique features, and how to get started today. Tune in for practical tips and insights to make the move smoother! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Alice Keeler Alice Keeler has a BA in Mathematics and an MS in Educational Media Design and Technology. She started teaching high school math in 1999 in the laptop Algebra program. Alice has taught 1:1 her entire teaching career and is passionate about using technology to create student centered classrooms. Paperless is not a pedagogy. We should not seek to use technology to save paper, but rather to improve learning, improve relationships, and improve student engagement. The tool is not what creates the learning, but rather an intentional approach for how a tool can create feedback loops, allow choice and voice, allows for communication of ideas in a creative medium, and increase collaboration. Connect With Alice Keeler Alice's Website: https://alicekeeler.com/ Alice On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/alicekeeler.com Bluesky Educators Spreadsheet: https://tinyurl.com/edusky

This episode is sponsored by MagicSchool AI. If you're ready to transform the way you teach, With over 3.5 million users worldwide, MagicSchool AI is the #1 educational AI platform. They're committed to data privacy for all users in order to keep classrooms protected. Save time and focus on creating experiences with your students with MagicSchool AI. To learn more and get started, visit www.magicschool.ai In this episode, I'm joined by Victoria Thompson while at the Georgia Educational Technology Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. We catch up to discuss the difference between badge collecting and building edtech certifications. A lot of us educators become ambassadors for companies but she unpacks the ways we can align what we do and strategically plan out our career with true edtech certifications. This is not to say that badge collecting is a bad thing. Being an ambassador for an edtech company means true understanding and application of that particular product which empowers teachers in many ways. She comes at it from a different angle and aligns skills with career planning and community building. You NEED to give this episode a listen and connect with Victoria. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Victoria Thompson Victoria on X: https://x.com/VictoriaTheTech Victoria on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriarosethompson/

This episode is sponsored by MagicSchool AI. If you're ready to transform the way you teach, With over 3.5 million users worldwide, MagicSchool AI is the #1 educational AI platform. They're committed to data privacy for all users in order to keep classrooms protected. Save time and focus on creating experiences with your students with MagicSchool AI. To learn more and get started, visit www.magicschool.ai In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Desiree Alexander while at the Georgia Educational Technology Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. She discusses Student Cybersafety and how that is geared towards students, teachers, and parents. She gives us a couple or red flags to look for when having conversations with our students and children and how to have those open conversations with one another continuously. This episode is full of great advice for any student, teacher, and parent so make sure you give it a listen. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Dr. Desiree Alexander Educator Alexander's Website: https://www.educatoralexander.com/ Educator Alexander on X: https://x.com/educatoralex Educator Alexander on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EducatorAlexander Educator Alexander on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/educatoralexander/ Educator Alexander on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Educatoralexander Educator Alexander on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/educatoralexander/

This episode is sponsored by MagicSchool AI. If you're ready to transform the way you teach, With over 3.5 million users worldwide, MagicSchool AI is the #1 educational AI platform. They're committed to data privacy for all users in order to keep classrooms protected. Save time and focus on creating experiences with your students with MagicSchool AI. To learn more and get started, visit www.magicschool.ai In this episode, I'm joined by Kathryn Laster while at the Georgia Educational Technology Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. We've been connected and have crossed paths at various conferences but never formally met until GaETC 2024. She's served in various roles in education such as a math teacher, Instructional Technology Coach, and Digital Learning Consultant. She's passionate about building professional development and professional learning. We discuss the difference between the two and then…the conversation comes full circle! Tisha Poncio joins us at the table because Tisha was a teacher in one of Kathryn's cohorts years ago. These two take us through the journey and Tisha lets us know how much of a pivotal role Kathryn played in her educational journey. This is such a special episode for these two that you have to hear for yourself. While listening to this, think about who has made an impact on your own educational journey and what you'd like to say to them. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Kathryn Laster Kathryn Laster X: https://x.com/kklaster Kathryn Laster on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathrynkl/ Kathryn Laster on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynlaster/ Connect With Tisha Poncio Tisha Poncio X: https://x.com/TxTechChick Tisha Poncio on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tishaponcio/ Tisha Poncio on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tishaponcio/ Tisha Poncio on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tisha.poncio

This episode is sponsored by MagicSchool AI. If you're ready to transform the way you teach, With over 3.5 million users worldwide, MagicSchool AI is the #1 educational AI platform. They're committed to data privacy for all users in order to keep classrooms protected. Save time and focus on creating experiences with your students with MagicSchool AI. To learn more and get started, visit www.magicschool.ai In this episode, I'm joined by Manny Faces while at the Georgia Educational Technology Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. He's the founding director of The Center For Hip Hop Advocacy. I came across his session title while scrolling through the GaETC app and the title of his session “Hip Hop x STEM = Engagement” caught my attention. I was able to find him and ask him to tbe a part of the show to discuss his work and how Hip Hop ties into education. I'm a HUGE Hip Hop head so this conversation is very organic and will probably require a part 2 at some point. Give this episode a listen because you'll be surprised to hear how many connections there are between Hip Hop and education. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Manny Faces Manny Faces is an award-winning journalist, public speaker, podcast professional, DJ, and, if none of that is impressive enough, living kidney donor. Much of Manny's work focuses on preserving, protecting, and promoting the ability of Hip Hop music and culture to improve society and uplift humanity -- particularly in areas including education, science and technology, health and wellness, politics and social justice, business and entrepreneurship, the fine arts, and much more. Connect With Manny Faces Manny Faces Website: https://www.mannyfaces.com/ Manny Faces on X: https://x.com/mannyfaces Manny Faces on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MannyFacesOfficial/ Manny Faces on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mannyfacesofficial/ Manny Faces on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mannyfaces/

This episode is sponsored by MagicSchool AI. If you're ready to transform the way you teach, With over 3.5 million users worldwide, MagicSchool AI is the #1 educational AI platform. They're committed to data privacy for all users in order to keep classrooms protected. Save time and focus on creating experiences with your students with MagicSchool AI. To learn more and get started, visit www.magicschool.ai In this episode, I'm joined by Angela Moore. She's a Health Care Science Teacher in Muscogee County, GA with a passion for what she does in and out of the classroom. We discuss the positive impact that Career and Technical Education has on our students and how this educational strand puts students on the path to a career as soon as they leave high school. She shares some personal stories of seeing her ex-students on the job and how that makes her feel as an educator. This is an awesome topic and conversation with an even more awesome educator. Listen to this conversation because it will leave you thinking, “I wish they had that when I was in school”. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites

This episode is sponsored by MagicSchool AI. If you're ready to transform the way you teach, With over 3.5 million users worldwide, MagicSchool AI is the #1 educational AI platform. They're committed to data privacy for all users in order to keep classrooms protected. Save time and focus on creating experiences with your students with MagicSchool AI. To learn more and get started, visit www.magicschool.ai In this episode, I'm joined chat with Meredith White to discuss how AI has effected the World Languages sector of education. Believe it or not, they've been ready for this and have been dealing with AI for quite some time. She is a wealth of knowledge and has a pretty big fan base in my neck of the woods. She's humble about it but recognizes that she has a responsibility to her students and those that use her resources so she ensures that she puts best practices into what she creates for other World Language educators. This is a fun conversation and honestly, I can't believe it took us so long to have a discussion on air. Give this episode a listen and share with your World Language teachers in your communities. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Meredith White Merediths' Website: https://www.meredithwhite.info/ Meredith on X: https://x.com/techMEWithyou Meredith On Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/prhsspanish/ Meredith on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@techMEWithyou Meredith on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@techMEWithyou Meredith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/techmewithyou/

This episode is sponsored by MagicSchool AI. If you're ready to transform the way you teach, With over 3.5 million users worldwide, MagicSchool AI is the #1 educational AI platform. They're committed to data privacy for all users in order to keep classrooms protected. Save time and focus on creating experiences with your students with MagicSchool AI. To learn more and get started, visit www.magicschool.ai In this episode, I'm joined by Kristen Brooks at the GaETC Conference in Atlanta, GA. We catch up and discuss how she is utilizing AI with her students in creative ways. She also lets us know her administration and parent feedback on these projects that incorporate AI in new ways. She discusses how she exposes her students to this technology in a safe and ethical manner with best practices to ensure that students know how to properly use it when unsupervised. Give this episode a listen because I can guarantee Kristen will teach you a new way to use this game-changing tool. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Kristen Brooks Kristen's Website: http://www.kristenbrooks.net/ Kristen on X: https://x.com/KristenBrooks77 Kristen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristenbrooks77 Kristen on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIIAPz1Mzz5Y7yElgTcJJrA Kristen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenbrooks77/

In this episode, I'm joined by Tom Murray of Future Ready Schools to discuss being a male in education and some of the nuances we have to consider in this profession. We also discuss how we can take that information to our future leaders (AKA Our Students) and instill behaviors including perspective when approaching tasks. Tom's passion is Personal and Authentic which is one of the reasons he is revered in such high regard amongst educational leaders. This is a great episode and one that will give you a new perspective on what it means to be a male in education. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Tom Murray and Future Ready Schools Tom's Website: https://www.thomascmurray.com/ Tom On X: https://x.com/thomascmurray Tom On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomascmurray/ Future Ready Schools Website: https://all4ed.org/

This episode is sponsored by MagicSchool AI. If you're ready to transform the way you teach, With over 3.5 million users worldwide, MagicSchool AI is the #1 educational AI platform. They're committed to data privacy for all users in order to keep classrooms protected. Save time and focus on creating experiences with your students with MagicSchool AI. To learn more and get started, visit www.magicschool.ai In this episode, I'm joined by Andrew Davies of MagicSchool AI to discuss his transition from the classroom to a popular edtech company and how he found his way into a MagicSchool AI interview. He also gives us his top three MagicSchool AI tools and why they're his favorites. This is a conversation that is guaranteed to get you using their platform ASAP and doing a deep dive into their teacher and student tools. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Andrew Davies and MagicSchool AI MagicSchool AI Website: https://www.magicschool.ai MagicSchool AI on X: https://www.x.com/magicschoolai MagicSchool AI on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/magicschoolai/ MagicSchool AI on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magicschoolai/ MagicSchool AI on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@magicschoolai MagicSchool AI on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@magicschoolai MagicSchool AI on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/magicschool-ai/posts/?feedView=all Andrew Davies on X: https://www.x.com/EduTechWizard Andrew Davies on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edutechwizard

In this episode, I dive into my three favorite AI tools from MagicSchool AI that can revolutionize your teaching practice. Learn how to streamline lesson planning with the Standards Unpacker, enhance student learning and clarity with the Rubric Generator, and boost your productivity with the Email Responder. Discover how these tools can save you time, improve student outcomes, and reduce stress. There's no food in this episode just food for thought. If you disagree with these three, let me know what your three favorite MagicSchool AI tools are. Buen Provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Learn More About GaETC 2024 https://edtechbites.com/2024/11/03/ready-to-revolutionize-education-at-gaetc-2024/ Join The X Factor EDU Virtual 5k Turkey Trot xfactor.link/trot

This episode is brought to you by Snorkl. As educators, we want students to express and explain their thinking. We want to hear their thoughts on a science question, a story, or a math problem. But listening to each student one-on-one is nearly impossible. Snorkl lets students record their thinking with a virtual whiteboard and uses AI for immediate, personalized feedback. This works for any question at any grade level. Teachers get an immediate summary of student progress. Check out Snorkl.app for an incredible deal for schools to pilot it this year. In this episode, I chat with conference planners, presenters, and participants of the TCEA Area 20 EdTech Conference that took place on Saturday October 5th, 2024 at the Northside Activity Center in San Antonio, Texas. This was the inaugural conference and one that pulled in sponsors including MagicSchool AI, MergeEDU, Canva, Diffit, Adobe, Seesaw, Swivl, Screencastify, Curipod, Padlet, and Purple Up USA. There were sessions that covered a wide variety of content areas, ability levels, and strategies. I had the pleasure of being on the planning committee, being a presenter, and being the Keynote Speaker at this event. I ask fellow planners, presenters, and conference attendees the same question: “How would you sum up this conference in one sentence?” And that is what I did on location. This episode is a collection of these responses stitched together. So if you are interested in planning a conference, take a listen to the responses. If you're going to be attending a conference soon, take a listen to prep yourself. If you have attended a conference in the past, ask yourself if you've answered like these individuals have while attending one. Make sure you share this episode with a friends and colleagues and as always, Buen Provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With TCEA TCEA Website: https://tcea.org/

This episode is brought to you by Snorkl. As educators, we want students to express and explain their thinking. We want to hear their thoughts on a science question, a story, or a math problem. But listening to each student one-on-one is nearly impossible. Snorkl lets students record their thinking with a virtual whiteboard and uses AI for immediate, personalized feedback. This works for any question at any grade level. Teachers get an immediate summary of student progress. Check out Snorkl.app for an incredible deal for schools to pilot it this year. In this episode, I catch up with my good friend, Todd Bloomer. Todd is a principal at a high school in San Antonio and as of August 9th, 2024… A published author. We discuss his new book The Blueprint: Survive and Thrive as a School Administrator. He tells us his inspiration for the book and how it came to be. This school year, he has made his campus a “No-Phone Zone” so I pick his brain as to why he chose to do this, how they are enforcing this new policy, and what the results have shown. This episode was recorded at Texas Sugar Daddies in San Antonio, Texas. They are just two dads, best friends, and foodies who decided to join forces to do something different. Their cafe has top notch food for dine-in or pick up. Their desserts are top notch and the charcuterie is one of my favorites. They support the local community in San Antonio so reach out to them for your food and catering needs! Make sure you share this episode with a friends and colleagues and as always, Buen Provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Todd Bloomer Originally from New York, Todd Bloomer now calls San Antonio, Texas, his home. Entering his 29th year in public education, Todd has held numerous roles, including teacher, coach, assistant principal, and middle school principal. For the past 5.5 years, he has been the principal of a large public high school in San Antonio. Previously, he served for 4.5 years as principal of a large middle school. Todd embodies the spirit of Teddy Roosevelt's famous "Man in the Arena" speech. He is a current practitioner whose experiences include leading schools before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The fact that Todd is still in the arena gives his voice credibility. He still faces the daily challenges that all administrators have to address. Todd is married to his wonderful wife, Sharon, and they have five children. Todd and his family live in the community he serves, and all five of his children have attended and graduated from the high school he leads. He takes great pride in shopping at the same grocery store as his students. Todd Bloomer is a highly sought-after speaker, coach, and consultant. He can tailor his presentations, keynote addresses, and coaching sessions to meet your needs. Todd is proud that his first book, The Blueprint, was recently published and is now available on Amazon or his website. The book provides insight and practical advice for school leaders not only to survive but thrive as a school leader. Connect With Todd Bloomer Todd's Website: https://toddmbloomer.com Todd On X: https://x.com/bloomer_sa The Blueprint On Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=todd+bloomer&crid=3NN0BXJ08Y5IT&sprefix=todd+bloomer%2Caps%2C115&ref=nb_sb_noss_1 Connect With Texas Sugar Daddies Texas Sugar Daddies Website: https://texassugardaddies.com/ Texas Sugar Daddies On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1xbc7gAYUdmLcLaE/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Texas Sugar Daddies On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/texassugardaddies?igsh=MW1reXp2Nm1qanE0Zg==

This episode is brought to you by Snorkl. As educators, we want students to express and explain their thinking. We want to hear their thoughts on a science question, a story, or a math problem. But listening to each student one-on-one is nearly impossible. Snorkl lets students record their thinking with a virtual whiteboard and uses AI for immediate, personalized feedback. This works for any question at any grade level. Teachers get an immediate summary of student progress. Check out Snorkl.app for an incredible deal for schools to pilot it this year. In this episode, I chat with April Monterrosa. If I could sum up the hats she wears in one sentence, I would… But I can't! She's an author, speaker, local entrepreneur in San Antonio, publisher of Live From The Southside Magazine, and then some. She works to help out local businesses and also supports our local San Antonio students through publishing student work in her publication. She values giving students voice and fostering their writing to help guide them in a direction they might have never known about. She truly is a San Antonio icon and Mogul and is always giving back to the community. It is an honor to have her as a part of the show and invite you to connect with her to be inspired by her and her work. This episode was recorded at BiblioTech South in San Antonio so a huge shout out to them and supporting the love of literacy for our communities. Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About April Monterrosa April Monterrosa, a native of San Antonio, Texas, is an entrepreneur, author, speaker, and business mentor. She's the publisher of Live From The Southside Magazine, the first woman-owned publication in Southside San Antonio. Her entrepreneurial journey commenced at 12 when she assisted with various responsibilities within her father's plumbing contracting company, Greg Galindo Plumbing. This early exposure laid the foundation for her journey into business ownership. With over 20 years of hospitality and spa industry expertise in the corporate world, April thrived as the proprietor of her esthetic and wellness business before her media career. Her media career began 15 years ago when she founded a travel and lifestyle blog specializing in exploring travel destinations, focusing on small Texas towns, self-care practices, and prioritizing adventure and enjoyment. Connect With April Monterrosa and Live From The Southside Live From The Southside Magazine: https://livefromthesouthside.com/magazine/ April On Twitter/X: https://x.com/AprilMaeMedia April On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aprilmaemedia/ April On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/april.monterrosa/ April On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aprilmaemedia Razoo In The Wetlands On Amazon: https://amzn.to/4dV63zW The April Monterrosa Show On KLMO: https://www.facebook.com/aprilmaemedia/posts/pfbid02ou99jigB5U1fwmFqjwxUFPQVdcxvKG32qt2jBxJwuBirDnYpA46SGZaJ2FwVHa8Fl

This episode is brought to you by Snorkl. As educators, we want students to express and explain their thinking. We want to hear their thoughts on a science question, a story, or a math problem. But listening to each student one-on-one is nearly impossible. Snorkl lets students record their thinking with a virtual whiteboard and uses AI for immediate, personalized feedback. This works for any question at any grade level. Teachers get an immediate summary of student progress. Check out Snorkl.app for an incredible deal for schools to pilot it this year. In this episode I chat with the founders of Snorkl, Jon Laven and Jeff Plourd. They explain how Snorkl came to be, the void they were trying to fill, the hurdles that came along with that journey, and the feedback they received from their early adopters. These two educators had their heart in the right place when developing their brainchild and did it for all of the right reasons. And if you're wondering what's on the horizon for Snorkl, they give us a little insight on their top secret update they're working on. Give this episode a listen because you won't be disappointed. And when you're finished listening to it, try Snorkl out for yourself with your students. It's an incredible tool that will change the way you look at feedback. Buen provecho! How To Use Snorkl YouTube Video https://youtu.be/Rl0A_xmqF9k/ Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Jon Laven Jon is a math teacher and instructional coach based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with over ten years of experience in the classroom. He has dedicated his career to supporting students and teachers in achieving those 'a-ha' learning moments. As the co-founder of Snorkl, Jon is passionate about helping educators leverage student thinking for deeper learning. When he's not working on Snorkl, Jon enjoys spending time outdoors camping, hiking, and water-skiing. About Jeff Plourd Jeff started career as a 5th-grade teacher. He's spent the last 10 years building tools for teachers and students as a software engineer. Connect With Snorkl Snorkl Website: https://www.snorkl.app Snorkl On Twitter/X: https://www.twitter.com/SnorklApp Snorkl On Instagram: https://instagram.com/SnorklApp Snorkl Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/cvFLuhm8VvBHiKH3/ Snorkl Superstar Application: https://forms.reform.app/yw1eq0/snorkl-superstar-application/tkhlMy The Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon

Welcome to the 2024 Beginning Of The Year Keynote. This episode is filled with ideas and tips for you to start the school year. I'm not giving you technical tips in this episode rather, mindset shifts. I discuss how to find balance between personal life and work life through flexibility. This episode will help you kickstart your new year with motivation and ways to be the best you possible. Gives this episode a listen. Your students, loved ones, and most importantly, YOU DESERVE IT. Buen provecho! The Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites

This episode is brought to you by Kinazium. Kinazium is the ultimate set for building mazes and games while having fun with math and physics! It works with Sphero, Vex, Wonderworks, Maker Bot, BeeBot, and more. Click on the link below to save 12% off your next Kinazium purchase. Hurry because the offer ends September 30th, 2024. Click Here To Save 12% Using Code: ETB2024 Click Here To View On Amazon You've got Ozobots, Spheros, Vex, Wonderworks, BeeBots, and Maker Bots… now what?! In this episode, I chat with Susan Crouse from Kinazium to discuss how Kinazium is reshaping STEM and STEAM while putting these robots to work in the classroom. Learn how Kinazium is checking the boxes when it comes to Creativity, Critical Thinking, Collaboration, and Communication. Let students explore three dimensional and game design while having fun. Self-directed learning will be at the forefront with your students and at the same time they learn coding skills. Give this episode a listen and don't forget to purchase your building set using the 12% off code: ETB2024 using the link above. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Susan Crouse Susan started her career as one of the first computer animators on the planet, later she became a product manager in the video industry. Over her career she won 2 technical team Emmy's, one for the first realtime computer animation system, FGW4000. Traxart is her fourth startup and Kinazium is the result of that endeavor. "We love how Kinaizum brings joy into the classroom and the home, where kids get to invent their own games/mazes and environments for robots and other rolling toys.” Connect With Susan And Kinazium Kinazium Website Kinazium On Twitter Kinazium On Instagram Kinazium On Facebook Kinazium On TikTok The Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon

This episode is brought to you by Snorkl. As educators, we want students to express and explain their thinking. We want to hear their thoughts on a science question, a story, or a math problem. But listening to each student one-on-one is nearly impossible. Snorkl lets students record their thinking with a virtual whiteboard and uses AI for immediate, personalized feedback. This works for any question at any grade level. Teachers get an immediate summary of student progress. Check out Snorkl.app for an incredible deal for schools to pilot it this year. In this episode, I fly solo and school you on how Snorkl can help give your students immediate personalized feedback through AI. This tool can give teachers their precious time back while gathering insights from students. As the school year approaches us, the most important thing we need to know about our students is what they DON'T know. Snorkl can help you accomplish this. Give this episode a listen and try Snorkl for your yourself. If you'd like to watch a step by step video tutorial on how to use Snorkl, check out the YouTube video below. Buen provecho! How To Use Snorkl YouTube Video https://youtu.be/Rl0A_xmqF9k/ Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites Connect With Snorkl Snorkl Website: https://www.snorkl.app Snorkl On Twitter/X: https://www.twitter.com/SnorklApp Snorkl On Instagram: https://instagram.com/SnorklApp The Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon

In this episode, I fly solo to discuss Google Vids. Google Vids is an addition to Google Workspace via Google Labs. It is a tool that allows users to create videos effortlessly through the use of Google's AI LLM, Google Gemini. I go through how to create a video, the editing process, and ideas for educators to implement this as a time saver. If you'd like to see it in action, click on the YouTube video below for a video tutorial. If your organization doesn't have Google Labs turned on, you might want to talk to your district Google Admin to see about getting this AI video creator turned on. Buen provecho! Google Vids Tutorial On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGkZZ3cR0eg Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites My Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon

Looking to elevate STEAM learning in your classroom? Discover TinkRworks — the evidence-based STEAM learning system designed for K-8 educators. TinkRworks engages students in unprecedented ways through innovative, STEAM Project-based Learning. The easy-to-implement program focuses on the hands-on application of STEM concepts and deepens cross-curricular connections to computer science, language arts, engineering, math, science, and the arts. Developed by a team of educators and engineers, TinkRworks provides comprehensive resources that enhance lesson plans, support project implementation, and ensure alignment with educational standards. Join the growing community of TinkRworks educators. Visit TinkRworks.com/podcast for special pricing. In this episode, I sit down and chat with Nigel Nisbet. He's the Vice President of Content Creation at MIND Research Institute and loves the ST Math product they've designed. He's a life long educator and has a passion for students overcoming math adversity through critical thinking and problem solving. ST Math is a platform in which students interact with Gigi, they're penguin mascot, and get her to move about the screen by solving math problems. We have a great discussion around productive struggle, his educational background, and where ST Math is going next. Check this episode out and see if you could get your students to move Gigi. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Nigel Nisbet Experienced mathematics educator and interactive curriculum designer who believes learning is something that students do, not something that happens to them. Connect With Nigel and MIND Education MIND Education Website: https://www.mindresearch.org/ MIND Education On Twitter: https://x.com/MINDEduOrg MIND Education On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindeducationorg/ MIND Education On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MINDEduORG/ MIND Education On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindeducation/ MIND On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/mindresearch Nigel Nisbet On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelnisbet/ The Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon

Looking to elevate STEAM learning in your classroom? Discover TinkRworks — the evidence-based STEAM learning system designed for K-8 educators. TinkRworks engages students in unprecedented ways through innovative, STEAM Project-based Learning. The easy-to-implement program focuses on the hands-on application of STEM concepts and deepens cross-curricular connections to computer science, language arts, engineering, math, science, and the arts. Developed by a team of educators and engineers, TinkRworks provides comprehensive resources that enhance lesson plans, support project implementation, and ensure alignment with educational standards. Join the growing community of TinkRworks educators. Visit TinkRworks.com/podcast for special pricing. In this episode, I sit down and chat TinkRworks with Dr. Chad Stevens. He's a returning guest but this time, he's got a different company logo on his shirt. He's the CEO of TinkRworks and discusses how they are delivering STEAM education into classrooms all over. He's also a fellow Texan and discusses his brisket making abilities. This is a fun conversation and really focuses on how TinkRworks can help you bring STEAM to your classroom. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Dr. Chad Stevens Dr. Chad A. Stevens is a seasoned leader in educational technology, currently serving as the CEO of TinkRworks. His expertise lies in blending business strategies with educational insights to drive long-term sustainable growth. He was recently named EdTech Chronicle's 2023 Best C-Level Officer in Education/EdTech. In 2023, EdTech Digest named Chad a Top 100 Influencer in EdTech. Connect With TinkRworks and Dr. Chad Stevens TinkRworks Website: https://www.tinkrworks.com TinkRworks On Twitter: https://x.com/TinkRworks TinkRworks On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinkrworks/ TinkRworks On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TinkRworks/ TinkRworks On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tinkrworks/ The Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon

Looking to elevate STEAM learning in your classroom? Discover TinkRworks — the evidence-based STEAM learning system designed for K-8 educators. TinkRworks engages students in unprecedented ways through innovative, STEAM Project-based Learning. The easy-to-implement program focuses on the hands-on application of STEM concepts and deepens cross-curricular connections to computer science, language arts, engineering, math, science, and the arts. Developed by a team of educators and engineers, TinkRworks provides comprehensive resources that enhance lesson plans, support project implementation, and ensure alignment with educational standards. Join the growing community of TinkRworks educators. Visit TinkRworks.com/podcast for special pricing. In this episode, I get schooled on Tutor.com by none other than kara Hall. She is the Senior Director of Customer Success and breaks down why YOUR school district needs Tutor.com. This is a great conversation and Kara breaks down what it takes to be a tutor and what little it takes for students to connect with an expert. Check this episode out and imagine how Tutor.com can help fill in the learning gaps. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Kara Hall Kara is Senior Director of Customer Success at Tutor.com. Before that she served as Direct of Client Services, K12 and Government Partnerships and prior to that, Kara was a Senior Program Manager. Before joining Tutor.com, Kara was Director, Account Management at i-nexus. Connect With Tutor.com Tutor.com Website: https://www.tutor.com Tutor.com On Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutordotcom Tutor.com On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tutordotcom Tutor.com On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tutordotcom/ Tutor.com On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tutor.com/ The Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon

Looking to elevate STEAM learning in your classroom? Discover TinkRworks — the evidence-based STEAM learning system designed for K-8 educators. TinkRworks engages students in unprecedented ways through innovative, STEAM Project-based Learning. The easy-to-implement program focuses on the hands-on application of STEM concepts and deepens cross-curricular connections to computer science, language arts, engineering, math, science, and the arts. Developed by a team of educators and engineers, TinkRworks provides comprehensive resources that enhance lesson plans, support project implementation, and ensure alignment with educational standards. Join the growing community of TinkRworks educators. Visit TinkRworks.com/podcast for special pricing. In this episode, I sit down with Laurie Deithelm and Randi Economou. Laurie is the Senior VP of Product at Capstone and Randi is the CEO of Capstone. We discuss the latest updates that are coming to the PebbleGo platform. There are some great additions to immerse our K-2 students into the research world without them being bogged down by incorrect data or even going to the wrong site to get bogus information. But what happens when they enter the upper elementary grades and miss PebbleGo? Well, they're updating with PebbleGo Next, a research solution for 3rd-5th graders. This is a great episode with great guests. If you're ready to see where PebbleGo is heading Next, give it a listen. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Randi Economou Randi originally joined Capstone in 2010 as the Vice President of the West where she was instrumental in building our Go To Market strategy for seven years. In July 2022, Randi returned to Capstone as Chief Executive Officer. She is a seasoned executive with over 2 decades of leading and contributing to the vision and strategy within EdTech organizations within the US and internationally. Beginning her career as an educator and staying true to her passion for teaching and learning, Randi believes that education is key and has dedicated her career to advocating for life-long learning opportunities for all children. She has held a variety of leadership positions within TeachMaster Technologies, PLATO Learning, myON, and most recently, Renaissance. Randi has been successful in positioning organizations as market leaders through driving the business strategy, operations, and innovation, while focusing on growth and building and maintaining a positive culture. Randi holds an undergraduate degree in English and she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Master of Education from Grand Canyon University. About Laurie Diethelm Laurie Diethelm has 20+ years of experience creating educational products ranging from software-as-a-service (SaaS) learning and development platforms to content-rich, multimedia learning experiences. Prior to joining the Capstone team, she worked with brands including For Dummies, Everything DiSC, Five Behaviors of a Cohesive Team, The Leadership Challenge, PXT Select, CrossKnowledge, and RMC Learning Solutions. She is a firm believer that the team is the most critical ingredient in the product development process—people from different perspectives and skill sets working together in creative tension will craft something much greater than any individual can create alone. Laurie is a graduate from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities campus. Connect With Capstone and PebbleGo Capstone Website: https://www.capstonepub.com Capstone On Twitter: https://x.com/CapstonePub Capstone On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capstonepub/ Capstone On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapstonePub/ Capstone On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/capstone-publishers/mycompany/ PebbleGo Website: https://www.pebblego.com/ The Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon

Today's episode is sponsored by WeVideo, a cloud-based interactive video platform used by millions of educators and students. With WeVideo, educators have everything they need to create dynamic learning opportunities in the classroom. Easily assign pre-made video projects in just a few clicks, and collaborate with learners in real-time. Embed interactive elements like multiple choice questions, free responses, and discussion prompts into new or existing video content, and watch engagement soar. Meet students where they are, in a medium they love, and develop crucial 21st-century skills like creativity, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration. WeVideo makes it easy to create videos, podcasts, GIFs, and more — no matter who you are. Try WeVideo today and maximize engagement, retention, and performance in the classroom. Visit www.wevideo.com/education to learn more. In this episode, I sit down and chat with Erika Sandstrom AKA Green Screen Gal. We discuss the importance of student creativity and how WeVideo helps amplify student creativity. She discusses some of the projects she's done with students, some of the stumbles she's had, and how she got the name “The Green Screen Gal”. This conversation has been in the works for quite some time and is well worth the wait. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Erika Sandstrom Erika, a Digital Learning Coach & Media Teacher, with 33 years in education, focuses on Green Screen & video production. Known as "Green Screen Gal," she speaks at conferences, conducts PD sessions, hosts webinars, and serves as a Canvassador for Canva. Erika, shares her passion for mindfulness, co-hosted Week of AI & Genially EDFest, founded Green Screen Summit, and graced the cover of Ed Tech K12 Magazine, named a TOP 30 IT Influencer. Connect With Erika Sandstrom Erika's Website: https://www.greenscreengal.com/ Erika On Twitter: https://twitter.com/greenscreengal Erika On Instagram: https://instagram.com/greenscreengal44 Erika On Facebook: https://facebook.com/greenscreengal My Breathing Bubble: http://bit.ly/mybreathingbubblecourse Erika's YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@erikasandstrom My Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon

Today's episode is sponsored by WeVideo, a cloud-based interactive video platform used by millions of educators and students. With WeVideo, educators have everything they need to create dynamic learning opportunities in the classroom. Easily assign pre-made video projects in just a few clicks, and collaborate with learners in real-time. Embed interactive elements like multiple choice questions, free responses, and discussion prompts into new or existing video content, and watch engagement soar. Meet students where they are, in a medium they love, and develop crucial 21st-century skills like creativity, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration. WeVideo makes it easy to create videos, podcasts, GIFs, and more — no matter who you are. Try WeVideo today and maximize engagement, retention, and performance in the classroom. Visit www.wevideo.com/education to learn more. In this episode, I chat with Dr. Matthew Joseph to discuss X-Factor EDU. He founded this because of his passion of sharing voices and stories. He's a published author and now pays it forward by allowing others (including myself) to share their story and voice through book publishing. He's taken it a step further by starting a podcast network. We discuss his story, his ventures, and where he sees himself in five years. This is a great conversation with an even greater friend. Check it out, you won't be disappointed. Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Dr. Matthew Joseph Dr. Matthew X. Joseph is the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning in New Bedford MA. He is also the CEO of X-Factor EDU consulting and publishing. Experiences such as Executive Director of Teaching and Learning, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Director of Digital Learning and Innovation, elementary school principal, classroom teacher, and district professional development specialist have provided Matt with incredible insights on how to best support teaching and learning and led to nationally published articles and opportunities to speak at multiple state and national events. Connect With Dr. Matthew Joseph X-Factor Website: https://xfactor.link Matthew On Twitter: https://twitter.com/MatthewXJoseph My Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon

Today's episode is sponsored by WeVideo, a cloud-based interactive video platform used by millions of educators and students. With WeVideo, educators have everything they need to create dynamic learning opportunities in the classroom. Easily assign pre-made video projects in just a few clicks, and collaborate with learners in real-time. Embed interactive elements like multiple choice questions, free responses, and discussion prompts into new or existing video content, and watch engagement soar. Meet students where they are, in a medium they love, and develop crucial 21st-century skills like creativity, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration. WeVideo makes it easy to create videos, podcasts, GIFs, and more — no matter who you are. Try WeVideo today and maximize engagement, retention, and performance in the classroom. Visit www.wevideo.com/education to learn more. In this episode, I have a meaningful and powerful discussion with Dr. Sawsan Jaber. She travels around the globe bringing humanity back to the classroom. She's breaking down the barriers within our educational walls and helping students foster positivity and inclusivity. Her story is one that entails the struggles of stereotypes, sexism, and inequity that have shaped who She is today. This is an episode that will help reignite the passion for inclusivity and equity within our schools and society. Sit tight and listen to Dr. Sawsan Jaber as she explains what it's like to bring the missing piece back to education, Humanity! Buen provecho! Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites Twitter: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Threads: https://www.threads.net/@edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites About Dr. Sawsan Jaber Dr. Sawsan Jaber is a global educator, presenter, equity strategist, curriculum designer, community activist and keynote speaker of 20+ years. She has held a variety of leadership positions both in the U.S. and abroad. Dr. Jaber is currently a high school English Department Chair, District Equity Leader, and teacher at Maine West High School in Park Ridge, IL. Dr. Jaber founded Education Unfiltered Consulting and works with schools nationally and internationally. She completed her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on inclusion and belonging of students from marginalized communities, with a focus on Arab American students in historically homogenous communities Sawsan was one of the ten finalists for Ilinois State Teacher of the year. She was awarded the Cook County Teacher of the year in 2023, ISTE 20 to Watch Award for 2023, the CEL Teacher-Leader of Excellence Award in 2023, and IDEA Teacher of the Year in 2022. Connect With Dr. Sawsan Jaber Dr. Sawsan Jaber On Twitter: https://x.com/sjeducate Dr. Sawsan Jaber On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sjeducate? Dr. Sawsan Jaber On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sawsan-jaber-phd-nbct-5835ab242/ The Book Is Officially Out! My first book “Cooking Up Experiences In The Classroom: Focus On Experiences, Not Just Lessons” is officially out! A HUGE shout out to Lumio for helping sponsor this book. I'm super excited about this project. It's filled with ideas on how to make memorable experiences for your students. In addition, each chapter also lays out a specific recipe mentioned in that chapter along with a video tutorial on how to prepare that dish. Make sure you get your copy and cook up some experiences for your students and loved ones! Click Here To Purchase Your Copy On Amazon