The Best Education Podcasts to Inspire and Inform Teachers

In today's fast-paced educational landscape, teachers are constantly seeking new ways to enhance their skills, stay updated on the latest trends, and find inspiration. Podcasts have emerged as a versatile and accessible medium for professional development, offering a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives right at your fingertips. With a staggering number of podcasts available, finding the right ones can be overwhelming. This article aims to provide a curated list of the best education podcasts, covering a wide range of topics from teaching strategies and classroom management to educational technology and equity in education.

Why Podcasts are a Game-Changer for Teachers

The phrase, “I was listening to a podcast, and they mentioned . . .” has become common in conversations these days, and it's no wonder why, considering the staggering number of podcasts available-more than five million! With such a vast selection, there’s truly a podcast for everyone and then some.

For educators, podcasts offer numerous benefits:

Convenience and Portability: Podcasts offer a convenient and accessible way for teachers to stay informed about the latest research, trends, and best practices in education. They fit seamlessly into busy schedules, allowing teachers to learn while commuting, exercising, or completing household tasks. As teachers, it’s our job to ensure we’re building our personal bank of knowledge to best serve our students and colleagues - and, most importantly, to ensure we’re in the right healthy mindset to continue bringing our A-game to the classroom. I frequently listen to podcasts when going for walks, driving, running errands, preparing meals, cleaning, making art, exercising, stretching, and doing stuff around the house.
Diverse Perspectives: Education podcasts feature a variety of voices, including those of experienced educators, researchers, and experts in niche fields.
Efficient Learning: Podcasts enable teachers to engage in professional development without the need for a structured time commitment.
Practical and Entertaining: Many education podcasts share practical tips, strategies, and classroom management techniques while making you laugh and think at the same time.
Community Building: Whether they have large or small followings, podcasts create a sense of community among listeners. By following certain education podcasts and sharing them with colleagues, teachers can feel connected to a larger network of professionals experiencing similar challenges and successes.
Inspiration and Motivation: Education podcasts feature success stories, innovative projects, and inspiring anecdotes from real educators.
Accessibility to Expertise: Podcasts provide access to experts and thought leaders in education who may not be readily available for in-person workshops or conferences.
Low-Commitment and Bingeable: You won’t like every teaching podcast you encounter - and that’s okay!

Top Education Podcasts for K-12 Teachers

Cult of Pedagogy

Hosted by seasoned educator Jennifer Gonzalez, this podcast explores the latest trends, strategies, and technologies in education (she comes up with an annual Ed Tech Guide). From classroom management to assessment techniques, Cult of Pedagogy covers a wide range of topics designed to help educators improve their craft and meet the needs of their students. Jennifer Gonzalez puts a huge amount of work into making her podcasts useful. She has simultaneous blog articles with all the links mentioned. She does a lot of research ahead of time and summarizes it for us. She prepares excellent questions for her guests ahead of time so that every interview proceeds quickly and with direction. She never interrupts her guests, lets them finish their points. Her diction/elocution is perfect, easy to understand, with no annoying quirks. She includes the transcripts if you prefer to read along, or play it for your students as a lesson. She thinks carefully about what will be useful information for teachers, not just what she is interested in. Listeners have praised the podcast for its practical advice and insightful interviews. As one listener noted, "I am rewarded by every single episode with new nuggets of wisdom and ideas to be put into practice. I am mining those often for things I missed."

Truth for Teachers

This podcast takes on many topics that go unspoken - how student-centered learning actually manifests in the classroom, which teaching “best practices” might not actually be best for students, and how teaching can change you as a person.

The Creative Classroom with John Spencer

A major proponent of creativity and project-based learning, professor of education John Spencer brings podcast listeners into his world through well-researched explorations of human learning, thoughtful musings on what it means to be a teacher, interviews with other educators, and more. From discussions on project-based learning and design thinking to tips on how to foster a culture of innovation in the classroom, this show focuses on making learning more impactful for students.

The 10 Minute Teacher Podcast

No time to get hooked on a new podcast? No problem! Vicki Davis understands how jam-packed a teacher’s schedule is, so she offers up bite-sized podcast episodes that can be completed in the time it takes to refill your coffee mug.

The Shake Up Learning Show

Learning coach, speaker, author, and former middle school teacher Kasey Bell produces this weekly podcast all about using technology in the classroom.

Teachers on Fire

Host Tim Cavey interviews fellow educators who are “on fire” in their profession - innovating, experimenting, and learning (and sometimes failing) alongside their students every day in order to become better teachers. Every episode offers practical tips on topics such as managing anxiety, regulating your emotions in the classroom, and fostering excitement for learning.

This Teacher Life

Inspired by a “terribly” boring professional development experience, teacher Monica Genta created her own platform for teachers to access practical, meaningful, and impactful professional development that sticks.

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Let’s K12 Better

At the start of COVID-19 lockdowns, Amber Coleman-Mortley sat her kids down at their kitchen table and started a podcast. Together, they tackled the hottest issues K-12 educators and students face today, including civil discourse, reclaiming history lessons, and what it means to be a “geek” in the modern classroom.

The Learning Scientists

This education podcast is a little bit different in that it’s produced by scientists, not teachers.

The Teaching Space

While this podcast is no longer turning out new episodes, the archive is full of thoughtful insights centered around teacher wellbeing and how to approach your work in a way that prioritizes your own health.

Teachers Off Duty

Many of today’s teachers are, as the kids say, “extremely online,” which means that even someone with no personal connection to K-12 education can get a dose of teaching reality simply by scrolling through their preferred social media platform.

Social Studies

In another crossover from social media, teacher-comedians Joe Dombrowski and Gaspare Randazzo pair up to share stories of classroom tribulations, foibles, revelations, and gripes.

Self-Care for Educators

If you don’t even have ten minutes to spare for professional or personal development, this podcast is for you. Host Tina H.

TeacherCast podcasts

The TeacherCast Educational Network, founded by educational technology specialist Jeff Bradbury, offers three podcasts aimed at helping teachers improve their digital literacy in the classroom.

The EdTech Podcast

This podcast doesn’t focus solely on technology - topics include curiosity, inclusivity, lifelong learning, and career readiness, all filtered through the lens of education-centered tech tools.

Mr. Barton Maths

How do you make a podcast about math? By coming at it from a human-first perspective and examining why so many students (and teachers) have an instinctual adverse reaction to the subject. Host Craig Barton is a former math educator and founder of diagnostic educational software company Eedi, so he has a fair bit of personal experience in the subject matter.

The Elementary Music Teacher Podcast

Fulfilling the “A” part of STEAM, host and music teacher Jessica Peresta shares strategies for beating burnout, clearing mental blocks, and finding inspiration to get students excited about music.

Project 500

An initiative of the Black Educators Matter organization, this podcast centers the experience of Black teachers and their students.

Nice White Parents

This podcast had a short run during 2020, but much like its title, it didn’t need much airtime to get right to the point. The five-part series holds a mirror up to well-meaning parents and examines the subtle harm of political correctness when racial equity in schools comes into question. The show dives into the 60-year history of a New York City public school, PS 45, and follows the experiences of Black and Latino students, families, and educators as they navigate the challenges posed by well-intentioned white parents and a history of school segregation.

Too Dope Teachers and a Mic

As the only teachers of color in their school, hosts Kevin Adams and Gerardo Muñoz understood the importance of elevating marginalized voices in the world of education. Together, they deliver a refreshing take on important topics like equity, social justice, teacher wellness, and more.

Teaching While Queer

In the era of Black Lives Matter protests, anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation, and divisive political alignment, it’s more important than ever for students and teachers alike to feel seen, safe, and accepted simply for who they are.

Black, Brown & Bilingüe

Hosted by two school administrators from the Chicago area, BBB (as it’s known) seeks to “unite the Black and Brown communities through education, storytelling, and community engagement” by affirming the experiences of educators and students who share parts of their respective cultural identities.

Speaking with Students

Social studies and media production teacher Will Andresen turns the mic toward the reason we’re all here - the students themselves!

Leading Equity

Hosted by the incredible Dr. Sheldon L. Eakins, The Leading Equity Podcast is all about empowering educators with the tools and resources they need to create equitable schools. Each episode is jam-packed with inspiring interviews and stories from the most influential voices in equity in education today.

Bright Morning

Hosted by Elena Aguilar, a coaching expert and author, the Bright Morning podcast presents weekly guidance to educators aimed at fostering their success. The majority of the episodes focus on coaching but she also talks about equity and combatting racism in the education space.

The Burned-In Teacher Podcast

The Burned-In Teacher Podcast is a weekly show for educators who are looking for ways to rekindle their love for teaching. Hosted by veteran teacher, Amber Harper, this podcast explores the challenges and triumphs of the teaching profession, offering practical tips and strategies for staying motivated and engaged in the classroom. If you’re feeling teacher tired, you can get started with her episode on how to combat teacher fatigue and keep yourself energized.

The Balance with Catlin Tucker

Dr. Catlin Tucker is a veteran educator and authority on technology, blended learning, and balance. In this podcast, she uses her expertise to help teachers find more sustainable approaches to teaching (I interviewed her on my Truth for Teachers podcast to talk about that exact topic). The Balance with Catlin Tucker is packed with solid strategies and inspiring advice. This mini episode on self-management is only 10 minutes long but is super helpful for teachers who want to incorporate their SEL skills when working with students.

Always a Lesson

The Always a Lesson podcast has a single goal: to empower educators to reach their full potential. Hosted by Gretchen Bridgers (formerly Schultek), a seasoned teacher, teacher coach, and trainer, the show focuses on supporting teacher leaders such as peer mentors, cooperating teachers for student teachers, and instructional coaches. Through expert guidance, Gretchen helps these educators develop and implement effective, empowering support models that drive student success and teacher satisfaction.

The Transformed Teacher

The Transformed Teacher is an uplifting weekly podcast that centers on finding balance and happiness in both teachers’ professional and personal lives. Hosted by Meredith Newlin, the episodes focus on topics like reducing stress, increasing organization, and making a comeback from burnout.

The Resilient Teacher

The Resilient Teacher podcast with Brittany Blackwell, M.Ed., provides educators with the resources and mindset needed to combat burnout and maintain a sustainable teaching career. Do you want to help build a sustainable career in teaching? Check out this podcast hosted by veteran teacher Brittany Blackwell. Her podcast provides educators with actionable tools and strategies to combat stress. Through easy-to-implement digital resources, evidence-based methods, and inspiring interviews, Brittany and her guests offer support, validation, and practical steps to overcome or avoid teacher burnout.

Teachers Need Teachers

Teachers Need Teachers is a podcast that’s focused on providing support to new and beginning teachers as they navigate their initial years in the profession, helping them thrive instead of just surviving. It is hosted by Kim Lepre, a 40 Hour Teacher Workweek alumni, experienced educator, and instructional coach.

Angela Watson's Podcast

Since 2003, Angela Watson has dedicated herself to sharing practical classroom strategies and nurturing a positive mindset among educators. Drawing from her extensive classroom experience, Angela has authored articles and books and hosts this enlightening podcast. Through her various platforms, she provides valuable advice to help you effectively prioritize your personal, contractual, and instructional time. Her ultimate goal is to help you prevent burnout and foster a sustained passion for your profession. She wants to ensure you not only survive but also thrive in your careers for years to come.

The Spark Creativity Teacher Podcast

Are you an ELA teacher looking for a spark of creativity? Listen to this podcast hosted by Betsy Potash. She created a resource hub for English Language Arts teachers seeking innovative teaching methods and strategies. Through eight seasons and hundreds of episodes, you’ll hear interviews with top authors and experts in the field, workshops with practical classroom applications, and quick tips to enhance teaching creativity. Project-based learning, escape rooms, hexagonal thinking, sketchnotes, student podcasting, choice reading programs, diverse texts, and more.

The Elementary Art Teacher Podcast

Host Patty Palmer is dedicated to empowering elementary art teachers through this podcast. With more than 150 episodes, she interviews art educators, giving them a platform to share their passion and love for the profession. You will gain valuable strategies for teaching art to young learners and practical classroom management techniques.

The Exceptional Educator Podcast

With a combined 50 years of educational experience, siblings Izzy and Nicole host this podcast that’s funny, relatable, and full of wisdom. They’ll entertain and inspire you with their engaging conversations and offer valuable inspiration and practical ideas to empower you to become exceptional educators. Their relatable insights resonate, making your journey toward excellence enjoyable and fulfilling.

Curriculum Associates Podcast

This podcast offers a wealth of best practices, tips, and inspiring stories to help you excel in the classroom and beyond. At less than 20 minutes, it’s a convenient and time-efficient resource. Hosted by Curriculum Associates National Director Danielle Sullivan and Associate Director Sari Laberis, the podcast offers thought-provoking interviews that provide you with valuable insights from a diverse range of educational professionals. Guests bring their expertise to the table, aligning with Curriculum Associates' values and goals.

Pop Culture Classroom

Three teachers, Mr. Richardson, Mr. McDonald, and I, combine our love of pop culture and our profession in this podcast.

The Sara Marye Podcast

This podcast, hosted by Sara Marye, offers quick and concise episodes in under 30 minutes. It covers a wide range of relevant educator topics, including reading, writing, student engagement, word study, comprehension, reading genres, and various teacher tips. Each episode provides insights and practical strategies to enhance your teaching skills and create a dynamic learning environment.

The Teaching Trio Podcast

In this podcast, experienced educators Michelle Emerson and Bridget Spackman offer practical strategies and resources to help you improve time management, organization, and productivity in your classroom. Bridget, a teacher in Pennsylvania, understands the challenges you face firsthand. Michelle, based in Texas, brings a wealth of teaching and professional learning expertise.

The Better Learning Podcast

Educator Jacob Chastain empowers you with practical advice, skills, and inspiring ideas in his podcast. It emphasizes collaborative learning and the value of shared experiences for impactful professional learning.

Bored Teachers Podcast

Comedy and education collide in this podcast by Bored Teachers. Lauren, Tell, Bri, and Gabe will enthrall you with captivating stories from their classroom experiences. With fearlessness and wit, they delve into diverse topics, including student anxiety, mental health challenges faced by educators, navigating sensitive history topics, and establishing healthy boundaries with parents/caregivers. You can watch clips of their podcast on different social media platforms or catch them live on the We Can't Make This Stuff Up! comedy tour. Everyone needs a little inspiration, new ideas, and a laugh sometimes.

Podcasts Focusing on Equity and Social Justice

Southlake

In Southlake, Texas, on the surface, everything appears to be perfect - beautiful homes, strong community spirit, and top-notch schools. But when a video emerged showing high school students using a racial slur, the town was rocked to its core. Black residents came forward to share stories of racist bullying and harassment, leading the school board to take action. Yet, the unveiling of the Cultural Competence Action Plan sparked a heated debate that divided the community.

Sold a Story

In Sold a Story, the investigative journalist Emily Hanford delves into the reading crisis affecting millions of children. Despite decades of research on how children learn to read, many schools are disregarding the findings and instead investing in training and materials based on a discredited theory. This six-part podcast exposes the authors and a publishing company profiting from this flawed approach.

1619

This limited series podcast has 50 episodes that cover the full spectrum of Black American History. Hosted by Clint Smith, he talks about key events and personalities - from the first enslaved Black people to touch American soil at Jamestown to the current Black Lives Matter movement.

Teaching Hard History

Teaching Hard History is a podcast that explores difficult and often neglected aspects of American history. Though it’s technically not a limited series and IS producing new episodes, they are organized by topic/season in a way that makes it easier to consume the content like a limited series. It’s produced by Learning for Justice (formerly Teaching Tolerance) which has tons of great educator resources.

Higher Education Podcasts

Among the millions of podcasts that have been launched in the last several years are a growing number focused on teaching and learning in higher education.

TOPCast

Thomas Cavanagh, Vice Provost for Digital Learning at the University of Central Florida (UCF), and Dr. Kelvin Thompson, Vice Provost for Online Strategy and Teaching Innovation at the University of Louisville, lend their experience and expertise in digital teaching and learning to TOPCast. This active podcast includes close to 450 episodes.

Northwestern Digital Learning Podcast

The Northwestern Digital Learning Podcast is a limited series hosted at the Digital Learning webpage for Northwestern University. For example, Episode 10 highlights a music lecturer who developed an app for tracking speech and fluid intake to help voice students combat vocal fatigue.

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