Best Inquiry Based Teaching Podcasts (2025)

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TEACHING THE HERO’S JOURNEY: Dos and Don’ts of Unit Design [Ep 256] 35:05

5h ago35:05

35:05

We’re kicking off a new four-part series all about teaching the Hero’s Journey—starting with the dos and don’ts of unit design. In this episode, we share how this timeless framework can lead to deeper thinking, richer discussions, and yes… even a newfound love for fantasy (spoiler: one of us used to be a skeptic!). You’ll walk away with essential q…

1
Empowering Youth to Confront the Climate Crisis in English Language Arts 1:23:22

1d ago1:23:22

1:23:22

This special episode of NWP Radio features many of the educators behind Empowering Youth to Confront the Climate Crisis in English Language Arts, a co-published book from Teachers College Press and the National Writing Project. Recorded in three parts, you won't want to miss this comprehensive overview of this important book. (https://shop.nwp.org/…

1
THE WORST ACTIVITIES TO USE IN ELA (and How to Make Them Better) [Ep 255] 29:42

7d ago29:42

29:42

We’ve all had those end-of-year activities that looked great on paper—but quickly turned into chaos in the classroom. In this episode, we’re sharing some of our own “what were we thinking?” moments, along with practical strategies to help you rethink and rescue those well-intentioned lessons. From creative writing prompts that actually work to rese…

1
LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT YEAR: Fundraising Ideas for Books (Book Fairs & Read-a-Thons) [Ep 254] 32:51

14d ago32:51

32:51

Looking for a way to fundraise and build a love of reading in your school? In this episode, we share how a well-planned Read-a-Thon can bring in big funds for books while creating a strong literacy culture. Amanda walks through her recent experience running a successful Read-a-Thon, including choosing a platform, organizing volunteers, and getting …

1
041525-The-Write-Time-Cane 41:31

16d ago41:31

41:31

Tina Cane is the founder/director of Writers-in-the-Schools, RI, and, from 2016-2024, served as the Poet Laureate of Rhode Island where she lives with her husband and three children. In her capacity as poet laureate, Cane established her state’s first youth poetry ambassador program in partnership with Rhode Island Center for the Book, and brought …

1
The Write Time with Author Mahogany L. Browne and Educator Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz 45:22

20d ago45:22

45:22

Mahogany L. Browne is a Kennedy Center Next 50 fellow, writer, play-wright, organizer, and educator. Browne received fellowships from ALL ARTS, Arts for Justice, AIR Serenbe, Baldwin for the Arts, Cave Canem, Poets House, Mellon Research, Rauschenberg, and Wesleyan University. Browne’s books include A Bird in the Air Means We Can Still Breathe, Vin…

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SUMMER READING RESCUE - PART 2 [Ep 253] 43:56

21d ago43:56

43:56

What if summer reading didn’t have to feel like a chore for students or teachers? In part two of our Summer Reading Rescue series, I’m continuing the conversation about how we can reimagine summer reading programs to actually work, and even bring joy back to reading. We know the summer slide is real, and in part one, I laid the groundwork by talkin…

1
SHE Pod S6 Episode 1:- Seye Abimbola 1:02:39

23d ago1:02:39

1:02:39

  Host:  Diego Silva Guest:   Seye Abimbola Project:    Book Editer: Regina Botros Transcript: Provided by Otter.ai  Music: 'Years' by Death By Ginger   Link to Global Health Unfiltered Transcript Link

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SUMMER READING RESCUE - PART 1 [Ep 252] 39:49

28d ago39:49

39:49

What the research tells us is clear: reading skills are lost over the summer. And that loss is not equitably distributed among our student population. It’s estimated that low income students can lose up to two months of reading achievement over the summer - much more than more affluent students. So we are faced with a dilemma: we know that the summ…

1
Teaching Is Inquiry 31:59

29d ago31:59

31:59

Ballenger shares her teaching journey and the core ideas in her book about the power of inquiry-based learning, which encourages teachers to honor students’ unexpected questions and ideas as opportunities for deeper exploration. Ballenger also discusses the challenges teachers face in maintaining time for reflection and collaboration, as well as th…

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TEACHERS REACT: The Elite College Students Who Can’t Read Books - Part 2 [Ep 251] 25:41

1M ago25:41

25:41

Did you catch last week’s episode? If not, listen here! In that conversation, we gave our initial reaction to the Atlantic article, The Elite College Students Who Can’t Read Books. Need the TL;DR? The article claims Gen Z is reading the fewest amount of books in recent history and some of the adverse effects of shifting to skill-focused learning. T…

1
TEACHERS REACT: The Elite College Students Who Can't Read Books, Part 1 [Ep 250] 33:38

1M ago33:38

33:38

Are students reading less than ever before? In this episode, we dive into The Atlantic article The Elite College Students Who Can’t Read Books and unpack its bold claims about reading full books, attention spans, technology, and the shift toward skill-focused education. We’re asking the tough questions and sharing our real reactions! One thing is f…

1
Lean Into Teaching as a Scientific Experiment! 24:32

1M ago24:32

24:32

As teachers, we constantly seek new ideas, strategies, and inspiration—but when does learning become a crutch instead of a tool for action? In this episode of Deep Roots, Flowers, and Fruit, we'll reflect on the balance between curiosity and implementation. From professional development to classroom experimentation, we'll explore how embracing the …

1
Spring Cleaning Your Science Teaching! 19:41

2M ago19:41

19:41

As the school year winds down, do you ever feel that itch to shake things up? 🌱✨ That sense that what worked this year might need a refresh next year? In this episode, we’re talking about curiosity as an act of service—why great teaching isn’t a “set it and forget it” career, but one that evolves with time, students, and our own growth. I’m sharing…

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TRENDING BOOKS: SPRING TITLES [Ep 249] 28:29

2M ago28:29

28:29

Today we’re fully embracing the energy of spring - because what better time to refresh our bookshelves and reignite our love for reading?! We’re buzzing with excitement over all the amazing new releases coming out, from Emily Henry’s Great Big Beautiful Life to John Green’s Everything is Tuberculosis. If you’re anything like us, your TBR list is ab…

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134: Transforming Malawi’s classrooms with UDL for inclusive, effective learning 16:53

2M ago16:53

16:53

Jane Somanje, a quality assurance officer and National Reading Programme trainer, shares how teachers are embracing UDL to create more inclusive classrooms. Jane shares success stories, discusses challenges like large class sizes, and explains how UDL is improving learning outcomes. Tune in to hear how UDL is making education more equitable and eff…

1
Taking Inspiration from Greek History With Evaggelos Vallianatos 49:03

2M ago49:03

49:03

The ancient Greeks had a profound influence not only on their own world, but also on what would become Western culture as a whole. In this episode of Point of Inquiry, Jim chats with Evaggelos Villianatos, a Greek scholar who sheds an interesting light on how his ancestors helped shape the science, arts, language and governments of the modern world…

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DAY IN THE LIFE WITH MARIE [Ep 248] 18:44

2M ago18:44

18:44

Marie here! Did you know that I teach high school English AND theatre? From early mornings with (multiple cups of) coffee in hand to juggling English lessons and theatre rehearsals, my days as a high school teacher are anything but boring. In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of a typical day in my life - showing you how I bring creati…

1
THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Assessments [Ep 247] 20:15

2M ago20:15

20:15

Assessments don’t have to be boring, stressful, or one-size-fits-all - and in this episode, we’re proving why! As we wrap up our Novels in Verse series, we’re diving into fresh, creative ways to assess student learning that go beyond the standard essay. Whether you love assessments or dread them, this conversation will challenge the way you think a…

1
133: Elke Greite - Empowering student growth through UDL, personalized goals, and inquiry-based learning. 14:57

2M ago14:57

14:57

In this episode of UDL in 15 Minutes, host Loui Lord Nelson speaks with Elke Greite, a middle years IB teacher at Dresden International School, about shifting students' focus from product to process using Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Elke shares how personalized goal-setting, inquiry-driven learning, and the integration of IB’s Approaches t…

1
Rooted in Science: Strengthening Student Connections to Inquiry-Based Learning 18:43

2M ago18:43

18:43

February is all about connection—but not just in relationships. In this episode of Deep Roots, Flowers, and Fruit, we explore what it means to truly connect students to science as a practice, not just as a set of facts. Too often, science instruction checks off the boxes—“I did a lab, so I included the science and engineering practices!”—but is tha…

1
Are You Experiencing “Root Rot” in Your Teaching Life? 24:36

2M ago24:36

24:36

This episode takes a deeply personal turn as we explore the hidden struggles educators face—especially in the darker, more challenging seasons of our careers. In keeping with our flora-focused analogy and inspired by the concept of root rot, we’ll dive into the imbalances that drain our energy and passion, from the relentless demands of teaching to…

1
THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Supplemental and Alternative Text Ideas [Ep 246] 20:53

2M ago20:53

20:53

We’re in the middle of our novels in verse series and so far we’ve talked about the possibilities that come with a novels in verse unit, essential questions, and gateway activities.Now it’s time to get into our favorite part…supplemental ideas! Get ready to hear creative ways to supplement The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo. We focus on the essential …

1
Collaboration in the Classroom: Real Talk and Fresh Strategies 25:41

3M ago25:41

25:41

Collaboration is essential for student growth, but it’s not always easy! In this episode, I reflect on a surprising groupwork success story, the challenges of fostering teamwork in my own high school chemistry classroom, and what I’ve learned from trial, error, and real teacher conversations. Whether you’re struggling with group dynamics or rethink…

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THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Gateway Activity Ideas [Ep 245] 19:02

3M ago19:02

19:02

Ever struggled to get students excited about novels in verse? In this episode, we’re sharing creative, low-pressure ways to ease them into poetry analysis without the overwhelm. With engaging, hands-on activities, you’ll learn how to make storytelling through verse feel accessible and fun from day one. As we always say, a good gateway can make or b…

1
132: Katy McBain: Empowering students through self-advocacy, personalized learning, and cognitive coaching. 15:05

3M ago15:05

15:05

Katy McBain, head of secondary school learning support at Dresden International School, shares how she and her colleagues empower students by fostering self-advocacy and ownership of learning. She discusses co-creating IEP goals, cognitive coaching, and personalized learning strategies, emphasizing a strengths-based approach to support neurodiverse…

1
THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Essential Question Possibilities for The Poet X [Ep 244] 25:28

3M ago25:28

25:28

Last week, we talked about the possibilities for novels in verse and broke down two approaches to teaching these texts. Today, we’re continuing the conversation using Elizabeth Acevedo’s The Poet X as our guide. We’re exploring two distinct essential questions that can shape a thoughtful unit - one that focuses on the craft of language and another …

1
A Primer on Cold Reading 37:39

3M ago37:39

37:39

The art of cold reading has convinced millions of people that gimmicks like crystal balls, palm reading, tarot cards, and other alleged paranormal abilities are real. People walk away from astrologers, mediums, and psychics saying "there's no way he could have known that" or other exclamations of amazement. But are these skills really paranormal, o…

1
The Heart of Service – How Connection Fuels Our Impact 25:30

3M ago25:30

25:30

February is the month of love, and in this episode, we’re digging into the root of SERVICE—specifically, how our relationships with stakeholders (coworkers, administrators, special ed staff, guidance counselors, parents) shape our work as educators. Let’s be real: Teaching is hard, especially when the very people who should be on our team don’t alw…

1
Going the Distance 42:33

3M ago42:33

42:33

In today’s episode we will talk about the recently published book, Going the Distance: The Teaching Profession in a Post-COVID World. This comprehensive study of teaching during the COVID-19 Pandemic has a lot to teach us about creating a healthy, resilient teaching profession able to face future crises.…

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131: Transform co-teaching with UDL insights from Kisa Laursen 16:26

3M ago16:26

16:26

Discover how Kisa Laursen transforms co-teaching through Universal Design for Learning (UDL) during this episode of UDL in 15 Minutes. You’ll hear about the 5 statements Kisa and her colleagues created to help every teacher in their building think about and plan for variability. She also talks about inclusive teaching, data-informed strategies, and…

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Sowing the Seed: A Month of CONNECTION in the Classroom and Beyond 22:38

3M ago22:38

22:38

It's nearly a new month! Each new month we'll explore a new seed from which to grow strong roots in our teaching practice. In February, the new seed is CONNECTION. As educators, we’re constantly forming connections—with students, colleagues, curriculum, and even ourselves. But in the rush of responsibilities, how often do we truly nurture those con…

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THE NOVELS IN VERSE COLLECTION: Unit Possibilities [243] 23:07

3M ago23:07

23:07

Have you ever considered how novels in verse can transform the way you teach poetry and literature? In this episode, we dive into the world of narrative verse and explore how these texts, like The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo, can bring poetry to life in your classroom! With their accessible format and rich themes, novels in verse offer endless poss…

1
3 Core Elements of Science That Spark Amazing Student Success 31:43

3M ago31:43

31:43

This is the final episode of defining our ROOTS on this podcast! In it, we're diving deep into the idea that science isn't just a collection of facts to memorize; it's an active, ever-present way of thinking and processing the world around us. We'll consider how science is at work as one root of our professional practice and how to use it to grow s…

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NEW YEAR AT BNT: New Perspectives on Teaching and Education [Ep 242] 24:41

3M ago24:41

24:41

Starting a new year in education means facing fresh challenges (and opportunities) with a renewed mindset. In this episode, we’re diving into how ELA teachers can thrive amid changing expectations and pressures. From prioritizing self-care to balancing the demands of teaching, we’re sharing practical strategies to help you navigate today’s complex …

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The Only P.H.D. You Need! 13:03

3M ago13:03

13:03

In this episode, we explore the power of a purpose-driven mindset in teaching and its deep connection to the service-oriented nature of our profession. I share my personal journey from pursuing a master's degree in chemistry to embracing the art and practice of education, reflecting on why academic qualifications don’t always equate to effective te…

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NEW YEAR AT BNT: New Strategies for Teachers [Ep 241] 21:42

4M ago21:42

21:42

A new year brings new opportunities to refresh and refocus in the classroom! In this episode, we’re sharing strategies to help you simplify your teaching and make a big impact, from encouraging critical thinking to refining routines that work. Let’s start with critical thinking—it’s the foundation for preparing students to navigate today’s fast-pac…

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130: Tom Tobin shares four critical knowledge gaps related to a higher education interpretation of the UDL 3.0 guidelines 20:04

4M ago20:04

20:04

In this episode of UDL in 15 Minutes, Loui Lord Nelson interviews Tom Tobin, an expert in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and higher education, as they explore four critical gaps in the UDL 3.0 guidelines. Together, they discuss how to adapt UDL principles for higher education by addressing grassroots assumptions, power dynamics, and the distin…

1
Rooting in STUDENTS 21:45

4M ago21:45

21:45

In this episode, I share the story of a student who found newfound confidence and skills after a shared connection over football fandom and a meaningful classroom challenge. Using this story as a springboard, we’ll explore strategies for creating student-centered learning experiences that foster trust, relationships, and personal growth. Together, …

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NEW YEAR AT BNT: New Tech for Teachers [Ep 240] 27:21

4M ago27:21

27:21

We're two weeks into 2025, and as part of our New Year's series, we're diving into the world of tech. But before we get started, if you missed last week’s episode on new books, be sure to check it out—we left you with a bit of a cliffhanger that we’ll resolve at the beginning of this episode! Technology is constantly evolving and is everywhere arou…

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S12 E10: Cracking the Code of Dyscalculia: Practical Tips for Teachers and Families 17:00

4M ago17:00

17:00

Send us a text In this episode of Practical Access, hosts Lisa Dieker and Rebecca Hines welcome Dr. Honora Wall, an expert on dyscalculia, a math-related learning disability. Dr. Wall, founder of the Dyscalculia Training Research Institute (DTRI), sheds light on the unique challenges faced by individuals with dyscalculia, offering practical strateg…

1
Rebooting With A Focus On Our Roots 21:40

4M ago21:40

21:40

This is the first episode in a reboot of the Lab In Every Lesson podcast for 2025! In it, we'll explore the idea that our strong roots—our core purposes as teachers—lead to abundant outcomes in student learning (our fruit). This year, expect shorter, more interactive episodes focused on our shared roots of STUDENTS, SERVICE, and SCIENCE. I'll also …

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NEW YEAR AT BNT: New Books for Teachers [Ep 239] 24:02

4M ago24:02

24:02

Happy New Year, Brave New Teachers! 🎉 In this episode of the "Brave New Teaching" podcast, hosts Marie and Amanda chat about their reading goals for 2025, highlighting how literature can really boost both personal and professional growth. They toss around some great book recommendations like "The Poppy War" by R.F. Kuang, and they’re super excited …

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SHE Pod S5 Episode 10: Tess Johnson “Developing an Ethical Evaluation Framework for Coercive Antimicrobial Stewardship Policies” 32:06

4M ago32:06

32:06

SHE Pod S5 Episode 10: Tess Johnson “Developing an Ethical Evaluation Framework for Coercive Antimicrobial Stewardship Policies”   Host:  Diego Silva Guest:   Tess Johnson Project:    Coercive Antimicrobial Stewardship Policies Edited by : Regina Botros Transcript: Provided by Otter.ai  Music: 'Years' by Death By Ginger  …

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238. LOOKING BACK/LOOKING FORWARD 33:33

4M ago33:33

33:33

Teachers, it’s the home stretch to winter break and we hope you’re hanging in there! It’s hard to believe, but this is the LAST Brave New Teaching episode of 2024. It’s been quite a year, and we want to take a moment to reflect on the challenges and triumphs from the year. You’ll hear about our favorite podcast highlights and personal highlights fr…

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S12 E9: Empowering Math Education: Strategies for positive Engagement 15:48

4M ago15:48

15:48

Send us a text In this episode of Practical Access, hosts Lisa Dieker and Rebecca Hines welcome Dr. Sarah Bush, Lockheed Martin Eminent Scholar at the University of Central Florida and co-author of The Math Pact series. The conversation dives into strategies for making math education engaging for all students, including those with disabilities. Dr.…

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237. CHILL! WE HAVE YOUR SUB PLANS COVERED! 38:30

5M ago38:30

38:30

Grab our Sub Plan FREEBIE here! We’ve all had those days. The days when something happens and you just can’t go to work. You caught the stomach bug, your child is sick, or you have an emergency. Whatever the reason, the only thing worse is knowing that you have to scramble to put sub plans together! You don’t want your students to have a waste of a…

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S12 E8: Breaking Barriers with Assistive Technology in Math and Science 18:28

5M ago18:28

18:28

Send us a text In this episode of Practical Access, hosts Lisa Dieker and Rebecca Hines dive into the critical role of assistive technology (AT) in math and science education with guest Dr. Tiffanie Zaugg. Dr. Zaugg is a former AAC Coordinator in the school district of Iowa and creator of EL, a chatbot designed to revolutionize teaching practices a…

1
🔒 HH 99: Media Literacy Through Television - Unit Makeover 21:31

5M ago21:31

21:31

Subscriber-only episode "Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!" Ready to make your summer reading program awesome? Head to bravenewteaching.com/summerreading 📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect wit…

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236. THE BNT BOOKS OF 2024 29:59

5M ago29:59

29:59

As we approach the end of 2024, it’s the perfect time for an updated book recommendation episode. At the time of this recording, one of us is in a bit of a reading rut and the other is absolutely killing it! Whether you’re struggling to pick up a book in this season or can’t get through them fast enough, you’re in the right place. Today we’re shari…

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Inquiry Based Teaching Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen