Two Non-EDU Podcasts for EdTech Geeks

If you’re an edtech geek (nerd, ninja, addict… whatever term you want to use) like me, then you probably find yourself non-stop scrolling on Twitter, paroozing Google+, reading books, articles and blogs, and listening to podcasts to learn everything you can about the always-changing world. I find that the more I know, the more I realize I still don’t know and want to learn. But sometimes I need to pull myself out of my education/edtech cave and see what else there is to know about the world. So, I wanted to share my two favorite non-edu podcasts for edtech geeks that still let you get a little geeky?.

Non-EDU Podcast for EdTech Geeks #1

The first is Hidden Brain with host Shankar Vedantam. “Using science and storytelling, Hidden Brain reveals the unconscious patterns that drive human behavior, the biases that shape our choices, and the triggers that direct the course of our relationships.”  I’ve written about Hidden Brain a couple other times (once about design thinking in life, and the other about changing someone’s mindset with deep rooted beliefs). I don’t just write about the podcast for the heck of it… I am able to make so many connections between topics discussed on Hidden Brain and my role as a technology integration coach. Building relationships and being able to work with all kinds of people is one of the absolute most important characteristics of an edtech coach. This podcast has made me more empathetic by opening my eyes, correcting my biases, and helping me see things from a whole new perspective about other people. This is beneficial to my growth not only in my professional life, but as a human being all around.

Plus, Hidden Brain also has an education section to pair study guides and resources with the podcasts in a classroom. Psychology was my favorite subject to teach, so I can only imagine If I had access to these podcasts and the resources in my classroom then. Makes me wish I could still teach it!

Non-EDU Podcast for EdTech Geeks #2

The second is Note to Self with host Manoush Zomorodi. Note to Self talks about the, “effects of technology on our lives, in a quest for the smart choices that will help you think and live better.” From being aware of the metadata in your selfies – to dealing with racist friends on Facebook – to understanding “big data” – to learning how to check and adjust which apps on your phone get sneaky access to your microphone, location and more, Note to Self is my go-to source for everyday tech from a different perspective.

As a tech coach, I am often questioned about the implications of technology, and it’s not surprising if I have to calm fears about tech “taking over life as we know it.” Before I started listening to Note to Self, I always felt like these fears were a bit extreme (recognizing that others may think I’m too liberal with some of my views on tech in schools). The podcast has made me more sensitive to those concerns. It has also made me more aware of everything going on in the background of my everyday tech.

So, what are your go to non-edu podcasts that help you gain a better perspective on life (and education because, let’s face it, we can’t separate ourselves)?

Tech To You Later
-Katie