My EdTech Life - podcast cover

My EdTech Life

Fonz Mendozawww.myedtech.life

My EdTech Life is where education meets innovation with clarity, caution, and purpose. Hosted by Alfonso "Fonz" Mendoza Jr., this podcast features real conversations with educators, founders, researchers, and thought leaders who are shaping the future of learning.


From classroom-tested tools to emerging AI trends, we cut through the noise to spotlight what truly works in K–12 and higher education. As a leading voice in responsible AI adoption, Fonz challenges the hype and elevates voices that often go unheard, bringing practical, ethical, and future-forward insights to every episode.


Whether you're a teacher, instructional coach, policymaker, or edtech creator, this is your space to connect, question, and grow.

 



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Episodes

Episode 297: The Human Intelligence Movement

Building a Human-Centered Future I’m excited to share this incredible conversation with the dynamic team from the Human Intelligence Movement . In this episode, we discuss their mission of transforming education to prepare students for an AI-driven world while preserving and elevating human-centered learning. Michelle , Brooke , Stacy , and Rachel share insights into the challenges of today's educational system and how we can better equip students with essential human skills like empathy, adapta...

Oct 09, 202450 minSeason 1Ep. 297

Episode 296: Partricia Cortez

In this episode of My EdTech Life , I sit down with Patricia Cortez , coach of the Lady Bots, as she shares her powerful journey of promoting girls in STEM through the Girl Powered initiative. We talk about her experiences, the challenges girls face in robotics, and the inspiring story behind her all-girls team. Patricia's dedication to fostering leadership and technical skills among young women is truly remarkable, and her upcoming Girl Powered event is set to make a significant impact. Join us...

Oct 07, 202451 minSeason 1Ep. 296

Episode 295: Kathy Van Benthuysen

Navigating Technology and Parenting with Converlation Today, we're tackling one of the biggest challenges parents and educators face—navigating technology with our kids. I sat down with Kathy Van Benthuysen, co-creator of Converlation , to explore how this incredible tool is helping families and schools foster better communication in the digital age. Trust me, after hearing this, you’ll want to jump on board! We talk about everything from tech’s impact on kids' social skills to actionable steps ...

Sep 29, 202453 minSeason 1Ep. 295

Episode 294: Shaun Conway

Screencastify Transforms Classroom Communication Join me as I dive into the power of video in education with Shaun. We will discuss innovative ways to enhance learning, improve communication with parents, and save teachers valuable time. I will share my own experiences using Screencastify in the classroom and district-wide, while Shaun will provide insights on their latest features and their impact on learning. Time Stamps: 0:00 - Introduction and welcome 2:27 - Shaun's background and role at Sc...

Sep 19, 202455 minSeason 1Ep. 294

Episode 293: Omar Cortez

Episode 293 Meshed Gears with Omar Cortez In this exciting episode of My EdTech Life, I sit down with Omar Cortez , a passionate educator and robotics coach, to discuss his journey in STEM education and his newly published book, "Meshed Gears." Join us as we explore the transformative power of robotics in education and how it can help students find their voice. 🔧 Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction and welcome 1:37 - Omar's background in education and robotics 3:58 - The unexpected journey into rob...

Sep 15, 202458 minSeason 1Ep. 293

Episode 292: Goosechase

In this exciting episode of My EdTech Life, I welcome back Alyshahn Kara , the Chief Revenue Officer and co-founder of Goosechase , along with first-time guest Jessica Whittaker , an instructional coach. Join us as we discuss the power of digital scavenger hunts to build community and enhance teacher and student engagement by creating lasting learning experiences. Whether you're a tech-savvy educator or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips for using Goose...

Sep 12, 20241 hr 6 minSeason 1Ep. 292

Episode 291: Anna Shildrick & Lucy Hutchinson

Episode 291 Reimagining Education's Future with ⁠Anna Shildrick⁠ and ⁠Lucy Hutchinson⁠ Hey everyone, Fonz here from My EdTech Life! In this episode, I sit down with the amazing Anna Sheldrick and Lucy Hutchinson, two passionate educators making connections in the world of AI and education. We dive deep into the teaching and learning landscape, exploring how AI can catalyze positive change. Here's what we cover: ⁠0:00⁠ - Introduction and welcome 2:20 - Anna's background and journey in education 4...

Aug 25, 20241 hr 4 minSeason 1Ep. 291

Episode 290: Arielle Nissenblatt

From Listener to Podcast Leader Hey everyone, Fonz here from My EdTech Life ! In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Arielle Nissenblatt , a podcast industry expert and community manager at Descript . We dive deep into the world of podcasting, exploring its evolution and offering practical tips for creators. Here's what we cover: 0:00 - Introduction and welcome 2:30 - Arielle's journey in the podcasting industry 5:18 - The evolution of podcasting tools and technology 9:09 - Storytelling...

Aug 23, 202453 minSeason 1Ep. 290

Episode 289: Matt Karabinos

Balancing Technology and Human Intelligence with Matt Karabinos Join Fonz and Matt Karabinos for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of education, the role of AI in the classroom, and the importance of digital literacy. Matt , a passionate 6th-grade teacher with a diverse background as a musician and former oil field worker, shares his unique journey and innovative approaches to education. 🕒 Time Stamps: 00:00:30 - Introduction and welcome 00:02:56 - Matt's diverse background: Fr...

Aug 19, 20241 hr 20 minSeason 1Ep. 289

Episode 288: Michael Copass

In this episode of My EdTech Life, I welcome Michael Copass, an experienced science teacher and AI education advocate. We discuss the rapid integration of AI in education, its potential benefits, and the critical need for responsible implementation. 0:00 - Introduction and welcome 1:31 - Michael's background in education and initial excitement about AI 4:54 - The need for AI literacy and responsible implementation in schools 11:51 - Discussion on AI as a "humble classroom servant" 15:36 - Concer...

Aug 12, 202454 minSeason 1Ep. 288

Episode 287: Sophie Theodorou

AI Hype Exploits Educator Expertise with Sophie Theodorou In this episode of My EdTech Life, I sit down with Sophie Theodorou to unpack the complex relationship between educators and EdTech companies in the age of AI. From the allure of "ambassador" programs to the ethical concerns surrounding data privacy, we delve deep into the challenges facing teachers as we navigate the rapidly evolving world of educational technology. Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction and welcome 2:44 - Sophie's background a...

Aug 02, 202456 minSeason 1Ep. 287

Episode 286: AI Literacy in Academia

AI Literacy in Academia Join me as I welcome Jessica Parker, Ed.D. , and Dr. Kimberly Becker , co-founders of Moxie . In this episode of My EdTech Life, my guests unpack the complexities of AI in academic settings, from AI literacy to the concept of a "post-plagiarism era." Jessica and Kimberly offer great insights into how AI is reshaping academia, the critical importance of understanding large language models, and the potential biases lurking within AI systems. Whether you're an educator, stud...

Jul 22, 202452 minSeason 1Ep. 286

Episode 285: Claudio Zavala Jr.

Risk, Create & Inspire with Claudio Zavala Jr. Join me for an inspiring conversation with Claudio Zavala Jr. , Adobe for Education Evangelist, as he shares his journey from classroom teacher to creative innovator. Discover how Claudio's diverse experiences and passion for creativity have shaped his approach to education and technology. Time Stamps: 00:00:30 - Introduction and welcome 02:43 - Claudio's background in education and journey with Adobe 07:26 - The importance of creativity and ove...

Jun 25, 20241 hr 1 minSeason 1Ep. 285

Episode 284: Joe Santiago

From DJ Decks to Amplifying Creativity Join me for an inspiring conversation with Joe Santiago, Adobe Education Evangelist, as he shares his journey from DJ to tech support to educator to creativity champion. Discover how Joe is revolutionizing education by infusing creativity into learning and empowering both students and teachers. In this episode, we explore: →Joe's unique career path and how it shaped his approach to education→The importance of creativity in learning and assessment→Strategies...

Jun 24, 202456 minSeason 1Ep. 284

Episode 283: Ken Shelton & Dee Lanier

Join me as I welcome Ken Shelton and Dee Lanie r, authors of the new book "The Promises and Perils of AI in Education: Ethics and Equity Have Entered The Chat." In this insightful discussion, Ken and Dee share their experiences writing the book, their critical analysis of the current AI landscape in education, and the urgent need to address issues of equity, access, and ethics as AI becomes more widespread in schools. Key topics and timestamps: 0:00 - Introductions 2:36 - Dee's background in edu...

Jun 19, 20241 hr 3 minSeason 1Ep. 283

Episode 282: Eduaide.AI

Episode 282: Pedagogy First, AI Second with Eduaide.AI Join me as I interview Thomas Hummel and Thomas Thompson , the founders of Eduaide.Ai, for a great discussion about Generative AI in education. In this episode, we talk about the potential and challenges of AI tools for teachers, the importance of pedagogy-first AI development, data privacy considerations, and what the future holds for EduAide.AI. Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro 2:17 - Thomas Hummel's introduction and background 3:12 - Thomas Thomp...

Jun 17, 202456 minSeason 1Ep. 282

Episode 281: Kelly Schuster-Paredes

Balancing Innovation and Ethics in EdTech with Kelly Schuster-Paredes Join me for a great conversation with Kelly Schuster-Paredes , a veteran educator and computer science teacher, as we dive into the world of AI, coding, and the future of education. Kelly shares her unique journey from science teacher to Pythonista and offers valuable perspectives on navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of educational technology. You can also listen to Kelly and Sean on the Teaching Python Podcast Timesta...

Jun 12, 20241 hrSeason 1Ep. 281

Episode 280: Marce Lancioni

Teachers as Guardians: Responsible AI Use in the Classroom with Marce Lancioni Join me as I welcome Marce Lancioni , a passionate English teacher with over 30 years of experience from Argentina, to discuss the impact of AI on education. Marce shares her journey, from her initial excitement about AI to her growing concerns about responsible use and the need for informed decision-making in the classroom. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 02:13 - Marce's background and teaching experience 03:21 - Ma...

Jun 06, 202455 minSeason 1Ep. 280

Episode 279: Navigating the Ethics and Challenges of AI in K-12 Education Panel

As AI rapidly advances, educators grapple with how to adopt and use AI tools in K-12 classrooms responsibly. In this insightful expert panel hosted by Fonz of the My EdTech Life podcast, educational leaders and an AI EdTech founder dive deep into the ethics, challenges, and opportunities surrounding AI in education. Join the conversation with panelists Adam Sparks , Karle Delo , Ed Dieterle , Bonnie Chelette , and Maurie Beasley as they discuss key considerations for educators, including: →Prote...

May 23, 20241 hr 13 minSeason 1Ep. 279

Episode 278: Anthony Beckett

Classroom Collaboration with Markify Welcome to another exciting episode of My EdTech Life ! In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Anthony Beckett , the brilliant young creator of the Markify App . At just 18 years old, Anthony has developed a powerful tool designed to enhance classroom engagement and accessibility. Join us as we dive deep into Anthony's journey, his inspirations, and how Markify is revolutionizing the way teachers and students interact in the classroom.Timestamps:...

May 16, 202458 minSeason 1Ep. 278

Episode 277: Stevie Frank

Book Creator" Igniting Summer Reading with Stevie Frank Join me in this engaging episode of My EdTech Life as he catches up with two-time guest Stevie Frank! Stevie, a digital innovator and tech coach from Indiana, shares her exciting project with Book Creator aimed at igniting summer reading. She also dives into the importance of creativity in the era of AI and discusses her adventurous approach to life. 🔥 Stevie's Book Creator Project for Summer Reading [16:24] Discover how Stevie collaborate...

May 03, 202453 minSeason 1Ep. 277

Episode 276: Jed Stefanowicz

Beyond the Bulletin Board with Jed Stefanowicz Join me for an exciting conversation with Jed Stefanowicz , a lifelong educator, and author of the newly released book Beyond the Bulletin Board: Crafting a Culture of Content Creation . In this episode, Jed shares practical strategies and insights to help educators shift students from content consumers to content creators. Jed discusses the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and risk-taking in the learning environment. He provides a fr...

May 01, 20241 hr 4 minSeason 1Ep. 276

Episode 275: Michelle L.

Balancing AI Innovation and Student Privacy with Michelle L. In this episode of My EdTech Life, I welcome Michelle L. from the UK to discuss the complex landscape of AI in education. As an educator and consultant advising schools on EdTech acquisitions, Michelle brings a wealth of experience and insights to the conversation. Together, we talk about the hype surrounding AI, the potential risks and benefits for students and teachers, and the critical importance of data privacy and security in the ...

Apr 30, 20241 hr 8 minSeason 1Ep. 275

Episode 274: Sofia De Jesus

Exploring the Complex Landscape of AI in Education with Sofia De Jesus In this episode of the My EdTech Life Podcast, I sit down with Sofia De Jesus , an associate program manager at CMUCS Academy, CSTA Equity Fellow, and author, to discuss the intricacies of AI in education. We dive deep into the critical issues surrounding data privacy, bias, equity, and the responsible implementation of AI tools in the classroom. Sofia shares her wealth of experience and research in the field, offering valuab...

Apr 17, 20241 hr 7 minSeason 1Ep. 274

Episode 273: Shira Moskovitz

In this episode of My EdTech Life, I welcome back Shira Moskovitz to talk about her dual role as a special education teacher and technology coach. Shira shares her hands-on experience empowering students and teachers through innovative tech tools and project-based learning. We discuss the importance of providing accessible learning opportunities for all students, including emerging bilinguals and those with diverse needs. Shira and I talk about strategies for supporting teachers in adopting new ...

Apr 03, 202456 minSeason 1Ep. 273

Episode 272: Dr. Nneka McGee

Beyond the Hype: The Overlooked Aspects of AI in Education Join me as I dive deep into AI in education with the brilliant Dr. Nneka McGee on this episode of My EdTech Life. Dr. McGee's passion for educational equity and her balanced approach to AI implementation is truly inspiring. We kick off the conversation by learning about Dr. McGee's remarkable journey in education, from her math teacher roots to her transformative work as a district leader. She shares her philosophy of "cautious advocacy"...

Mar 21, 202459 minSeason 1Ep. 272

Episode 271: Sally Ricker

Transforming College Curricula One Corporate Project at a TimeHave you ever wondered how we can bridge the gap between higher education and the skills companies are looking for in new hires? In this live replay, I speak with Sally Ricker, CEO of The Project-Based Learning Company, about her innovative online platform that connects university students with real-world corporate projects. Through Sally's program, students develop critical 21st-century skills like collaboration, communication, creat...

Mar 18, 202454 minSeason 1Ep. 271

Episode 270: Erik Stromquist

This episode of My EdTech Life features a comprehensive interview with Eric Stromquist from CTL , discussing the challenges and opportunities in educational technology post-pandemic. The discussion covers the significance of sustainable funding for technology in schools, the impact of the pandemic on educational practices, and the innovative solutions CTL offers to address these challenges. Key topics include the importance of customer feedback in product development, the potential of 5G technol...

Mar 15, 202456 minSeason 1Ep. 270

Episode 269: Tom Mullaney

Hey everyone, it's Fonz here, and I'd like to welcome you to another exciting episode of My EdTech Life! In today's show, I sit down with the brilliant Tom Mullaney to tackle the hot topic of AI and its potential impact on traditional teaching dynamics. As an educator, Google Innovator, and frequent conference speaker, Tom brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this critical conversation. Throughout our discussion, Tom and I explore the complexities surrounding AI in education, from the ...

Mar 11, 202453 minSeason 1Ep. 269

Episode 268: Snorkl

In this episode of My EdTech Life, Jeff Plourd and Jon Laven , the creators of Snorkl, share how they aim to transform learning through Artificial Intelligence. Snorkl focuses on the creative aspects of student's thought processes, making teaching and learning more engaging and enhancing the classroom experience for teachers and students. Listen in to discover how Snorkl prioritizes the learning process over the end product and how this platform can amplify student voices, facilitate timely feed...

Mar 06, 20241 hr 2 minSeason 1Ep. 268
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