Best Polytechnic Podcasts (2025)

1
Rebuilding Higher Education Around Solving Real-World Problems - Dr. Kristin Wobbe, Director of the Center for Project-Based Learning at Worcester Polytechnic Institute 40:02

12h ago40:02

40:02

What happens when a university rethinks the whole higher ed model rebuilds it around hands-on, project-based learning? Matt Kirchner dives into the bold model pioneered by Worcester Polytechnic Institute with Dr. Kristin Wobbe, Director of the Center for Project-Based Learning. A biochemist turned curriculum innovator, Kris has spent nearly two dec…

1
How to Build & Grow an Industry-Aligned CTE Program - Maroun Nehme, Director of Advanced Robotics and Mechatronics at BPHS 45:54

6d ago45:54

45:54

Host Matt Kirchner sits down with Maroun Nehme, Advanced Robotics and Mechatronics teacher at Buena Park High School in California. Maroun has built one of the most impressive high school mechatronics & robotics programs in the country—complete with a structured 3-year pathway, hands-on labs, and SACA and FANUC certifications that prepare students …

1
School Leader Profile: Career Readiness Starts Now - Lessons from Kristy Venne’s Journey 31:33

13d ago31:33

31:33

In this episode, Hans Meeder speaks with Kristy Venne, a veteran public educator from central Ohio, about her inspiring journey from visual arts teacher to high school administrator and district leader in career-connected learning. Kristy shares how she led the design and launch of an innovative, non-traditional high school focused on flexible path…

1
Inside the Bipartisan Push for America’s Skilled Workforce - U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin 24:36

14d ago24:36

24:36

How do we build bipartisan momentum to support the future of CTE? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a national leader and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus. Drawing from her personal upbringing in a STEM-focused household and her decades …

1
Episode 5: Financial Literacy, Banking, and Leadership: David Greene's Impact on Indianapolis 26:07

18d ago26:07

26:07

In this student-led episode of Voices of Indianapolis, Gabe, A'marion, and Luke from Purdue Polytechnic High School take the reins, interviewing their mentor, David Greene. As the Region President of Indianapolis for First Merchants Bank, David oversees market operations and champions a community-focused approach to banking. Listeners will discover…

1
From the Shop Floor to the Fast Lane: How Racing, Technical Skills and Workforce Strategy Collide - Justin Mondeik, Owner & Driver at Mondeik Racing 36:45

27d ago36:45

36:45

By day, Justin Mondeik applies his technical skills in engineering; by night and weekend, he races Super Late Model cars. From racing snowmobiles at age four to competing just one level below NASCAR, Justin has built a career on technical skill, hands-on passion, and relentless drive. In this episode, he shares how a technical education prepared hi…

1
Changing Tariffs Will Impact Technical Education—Here’s What to Do About It 38:21

28d ago38:21

38:21

What do tariffs have to do with technical education? A lot more than you might think. As U.S. trade policy shifts, it’s not just manufacturers who will feel the effects—STEM and technical education programs will too. From rising equipment costs to a surge in demand for skilled talent, today’s tariff decisions could reshape how we train tomorrow’s w…

1
AI Regulation Can Wait—But Education Reform Can’t - State Senator Julian Bradley 52:50

1M ago52:50

52:50

State Senator Julian Bradley joins Matt Kirchner for a wide-ranging conversation on how policymakers should be thinking about AI, energy, and education. Bradley explains why his committee chose not to recommend regulation of AI, how this move differs from other states, and how artificial intelligence could help solve workforce shortages in critical…

1
Preparing Tomorrow's Workforce - Chapter 1, Part 1 34:54

1M ago34:54

34:54

Episode 302 In a world transformed by AI and automation, many young people struggle to find careers that fit their strengths and goals. Preparing Tomorrow’s Workforce by Hans Meeder with JoLynn Fletcher explores how students can build essential Career Navigation Skills and how schools can support them through Career-connected Learning. This chapter…

1
School Leader Profile: Pamela Carr, Principal, Seacoast School of Technology 33:13

1M ago33:13

33:13

EPISODE 301 In this episode, we sit down with Pamela Carr, Principal of Seacoast School of Technology in Exeter, New Hampshire. With over 30 years in education, Pamela shares her journey from business and computer science teacher to her current role as a leader in career-connected learning. She reflects on the powerful impact that real-world experi…

1
The 50/50 University Model that Leaves Grads with 2.5 Years of Work Experience and $75k - Dr. Robert McMahan, President of Kettering University 41:53

1M ago41:53

41:53

Is the traditional university model failing today’s students—and the industries that depend on them? Dr. Robert McMahan, President of Kettering University, shares a bold, workforce-driven vision for higher education. From co-op rotations that give students 2.5 years of paid, professional experience before graduation, to integrating trends like arti…

1
HAIMU and Cursor 1:03:40

2M ago1:03:40

1:03:40

(00:03) Human AI Collaboration With Cursor Tool (12:15) Enhancing Collaboration Through Meta-Engineering (35:21) Collaborative Methodology in AI Development (43:49) Revolutionizing Human-AI Collaboration Paradigms (53:26) Advancing Collaborative Knowledge Systems (01:02:38) Creating AI Community (00:03) Human AI Collaboration With Cursor Tool This …

1
Microsoft, the Packers, and the Venture Firm Betting on Midwest Innovation - Jill Enos, Managing Partner of TitletownTech 48:59

2M ago48:59

48:59

What happens when a legendary NFL team partners with a tech giant to fuel regional innovation? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Jill Enos, Managing Partner at TitletownTech — the one-of-a-kind venture firm backed by the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft. Jill unpacks how TitletownTech is redefining early-stage …

1
The Lifelong Impact of Mentorship for STEM Students - Joe Tanner and Curtis Althaus, the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation 35:29

2M ago35:29

35:29

The right mentor can totally change the college and career trajectory of a student. Today, we're exploring the power of mentorships through the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. Join former NASA astronaut Joe Tanner and current Astronaut Scholar Curtis Althaus as they dive into the powerful, and often overlooked, role mentorship plays in building t…

1
Farewell to Venezuela 49:15

2M ago49:15

49:15

(00:03) Exile and Government Crumbling (16:52) Lost Promise and Disillusionment in Venezuela (26:06) Tales of Venezuela's Political Desperation (33:33) Tales of Exile and Resilience (43:00) Lessons From Venezuela's Political Turmoil (00:03) Exile and Government Crumbling This chapter takes us on a journey through the experiences of Amanda Quintero,…

1
What Rising Tariffs Mean for Companies, Workers, and the Future of Trade - John Murphy, SVP & Head of International at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce 43:28

2M ago43:28

43:28

With tariffs back in the spotlight, what’s their real impact on trade, business, and jobs? Are they a necessary tool for protecting American industry, or do they do more harm than good? This week, host Matt Kirchner sits down with John Murphy, Senior Vice President, Head of International for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, to break down the complex w…

1
The Athlete’s Mindset in the Classroom: The Power of Confidence, Goal-Setting and Positivity in STEM - Kathy Meyers, Teacher at Corner Canyon High School 41:50

3M ago41:50

41:50

Why do so many students (and adults) believe they “just aren’t good at math”? How can educators shift that mindset and build confidence in STEM learning? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Kathy Meyers, a veteran high school teacher who blends sports psychology with math instruction to help students overcome se…

1
Women Were Hunters 38:30

3M ago38:30

38:30

(00:03) Rethinking Women's Role in Prehistoric Societies (07:29) Challenging Historical Narratives With AI (16:21) Evolving Perspectives on Gender and History (32:25) Embracing Wisdom Through Continuous Learning (37:39) Expanding Conversations on AI Podcast (00:03) Rethinking Women's Role in Prehistoric Societies This chapter challenges the long-he…

1
Baseball’s Infamous Scandal Inspired Its Biggest Tech Breakthrough...And Changed the Game Forever - John Hankins, Co-Inventor & Owner of PitchCom 44:53

3M ago44:53

44:53

With sign-stealing scandals shaking Major League Baseball, the game needed a solution. Enter PitchCom, the cutting-edge communication technology that’s changing the way baseball is played. In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with John Hankins, co-inventor and owner of PitchCom, to unpack the surprising origins of the…

1
Int. w Matt Van Itallie, CEO of Sema 55:51

3M ago55:51

55:51

(00:03) Bridging the Gap (10:17) Understanding and Managing Gen AI Code (20:59) AI Task Prompts for Learning (25:02) Enhancing Communication With AI (32:51) Leveraging Human Creativity With AI (38:26) Unleashing Human Potential Through AI (44:09) AI's Role in Human Expertise (00:03) Bridging the Gap This chapter explores the innovative work of Matt…

1
Episode 4: Rachel Armstrong: From Valedictorian to Professional Wrestling's Shooting Star 22:53

3M ago22:53

22:53

In this captivating episode of Voices of Indianapolis, students Jayden and Jacob introduce us to the remarkable Rachel Armstrong, a local wrestler and Wrestlearts' rising star. Rachel's story is one of exceptional drive, blending academic excellence with athletic prowess and a passion for finance. Listeners will discover Rachel's journey from valed…

1
The Right Idea, The Right Founder: How Undercapitalized Entrepreneurs are Getting Their Shot - Jennifer Abele & Raquel Filmanowicz, Managing Partners at VC 414 44:34

3M ago44:34

44:34

Venture capital is the engine behind many of the world’s most innovative startups—but only 2% of VC funding goes to women-led businesses. Why does this gap exist, and how do we fix it? This week Matt sits down with Jennifer Abele and Raquel Filmanowicz, Founders and Managing Partners of VC 414, a firm dedicated to funding women, minority, veteran, …

1
Episode 3: The Genetic Frontier: Dr. Erin Conboy on Medical Genetics and Hope 39:11

3M ago39:11

39:11

In this special episode of Voices of Indianapolis, hosted by our very own student, Nat, we delve into the fascinating world of medical genetics with Dr. Erin E. Conboy. Dr. Conboy, a specialist in Medical Genetics at Riley Medical & Molecular Genetics and Co-director of the Undiagnosed Rare Disease Clinic (URDC), is making a profound impact on the …

1
Int. with Francis Syms, Humber Polytechnic 48:09

3M ago48:09

48:09

(00:03) Exploring AI in Education and Technology (13:33) Future of AI Integration and Governance (26:48) Ethical Considerations in AI Education (36:12) AI Integration and Education Ethics (47:06) Continuing the AI Ethics Conversation (00:03) Exploring AI in Education and Technology This chapter introduces the first interview program of "A Guy with …

1
Preparing to Thrive in College with Carol Ben-Davies! 1:00:24

3M ago1:00:24

1:00:24

As more teens prepare to go to college this summer, the importance of what qualities students should develop in high school so that they can thrive in college is ever important. Join Mark and Anna as they speak with Carol Ben-Davies from College Bound Determination as she shares her decades of experience working with students at top universities on…

1
Can U.S. Manufacturing Keep Its Edge? What it Will Take to Compete Globally in 2025 - Congresswoman Haley Stevens 38:20

3M ago38:20

38:20

How does the U.S. stay competitive in manufacturing, EVs, and AI while protecting innovation and growing the workforce? Manufacturing has always been the backbone of Michigan’s economy, and few people understand this better than Congresswoman Haley Stevens. Representing Michigan’s 11th District, she has spent her career championing industrial polic…

1
Veganism 34:45

3M ago34:45

34:45

(00:03) Exploring Veganism and Ethical Choices (11:11) Navigating Ethics and Meat Consumption (27:35) Plant-Based Culinary Exploration (00:03) Exploring Veganism and Ethical Choices This chapter explores the concept of veganism, beginning with a definition that encompasses avoiding all animal products in food, clothing, cosmetics, and other goods. …

1
Sleep and Students with "The Inner Clock"'s Lynne Peeples 53:03

3M ago53:03

53:03

In this episode, we sit down with Lynne Peeples, a distinguished science journalist and author of "THE INNER CLOCK," to delve into the fascinating world of circadian rhythms and sleep. Lynne shares her journey of writing the book, emphasizing the importance of understanding our internal clocks. Lynne discusses optimal sleep and wake times, cultural…

1
The AI Degree Built to Solve Real-World Problems - Dr. John Walz, President of MSOE 45:22

3M ago45:22

45:22

What does it take to be a true pioneer in artificial intelligence education? The Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) didn’t just see AI coming—they got out in front of it. Dr. John Walz, President of MSOE, joins The TechEd Podcast to discuss how his institution became one of the first in the nation to offer a baccalaureate degree in AI and how i…

1
Fascism 44:16

3M ago44:16

44:16

(00:03) Exploring Fascism (08:31) Democratic Safeguards Against Fascism (18:18) Recognizing and Resisting Modern Authoritarianism (33:06) Rising Authoritarianism in American Politics (00:03) Exploring Fascism This chapter focuses on understanding fascism, starting with a basic definition of it as a far-right, authoritarian ideology that emphasizes …

1
How Your Morning Coffee Could Kickstart a Student’s Career - Mike Franz, Co-Founder & Chief Innovation Officer at ShopFloor Coffee 45:22

4M ago45:22

45:22

With coffee fueling the shop floor, can it also fuel the future of manufacturing? This week, Matt Kirchner is joined by ShopFloor Coffee Co-Founder Mike Franz as they explore the intersection of coffee, manufacturing, and workforce development. What started as a side project quickly became a nationwide movement to support technical education and ca…

1
Robots, Leadership, and the Next Generation of Automation Talent - Mike Cicco, President & CEO of FANUC America 28:20

4M ago28:20

28:20

What does it take to lead the world’s largest robotics and CNC company? Mike Cicco, President and CEO of FANUC America, pulls back the curtain on his journey from programming robots to driving global innovation. Recorded live at IMTS 2024, this episode is packed with insights on mentorship, leadership, and how FANUC is reshaping the future of manuf…

1
The Importance of Nixing Qualia 47:33

4M ago47:33

47:33

(00:03) Redefining Language for AI Understanding (14:03) Defining AI Terminology and Learning (22:49) Refining AI Language for Clarity (34:01) Navigating Language Challenges in AI (00:03) Redefining Language for AI Understanding This chapter examines the intriguing topic of qualia and the need to rethink how we describe AI's processes. We explore t…

1
Episode 2: Beyond the Textbook: Building Authentic Learning with Headrush's Shane Krukowski 1:15:05

4M ago1:15:05

1:15:05

In this episode of Voices of Indianapolis, we dive deep into the world of project-based learning with Shane Krukowski, Co-founder and COO of Headrush. Headrush empowers educators with a powerful platform that supports project-based learning from start to finish, fostering student agency, and deeper learning experiences. Shane shares his insights on…

1
The AI Cure for Healthcare’s Cost Crisis - Rick Anderson, Chairman and CEO of The Hive Health 50:29

4M ago50:29

50:29

This marks a milestone 200th episode of The TechEd Podcast! Matt Kirchner is joined by Rick Anderson, CEO of The Hive Health, to explore how transparency and technology are reshaping healthcare. Rick shares how The Hive Health uses AI and data-driven insights to negotiate fair pricing for medical devices, save providers millions of dollars, and hel…

1
Turing and the Chinese Room 36:43

4M ago36:43

36:43

(00:03) Chinese Room Thought Experiment in AI (06:56) Advancing AI Capabilities and Understanding (19:22) Understanding the Nuances of AI (00:03) Chinese Room Thought Experiment in AI This chapter examines John Searle's Chinese Room thought experiment and its implications for understanding AI's capabilities, alongside Alan Turing's influential test…

1
Justin Yang, Research with Real-World Impact 36:09

4M ago36:09

36:09

To achieve real-world impact, modern research usually takes a village — that is, researchers from multiple disciplines. Justin Yang, associate dean, discusses the evolution of our college’s research impact areas into action-oriented centers and his goal to support professors as they balance use-inspired research with teaching. See this episode's ho…

1
Demystifying Nuclear Power: Recommissioning, SMRs, and a Clean Energy Future - Patrick O'Brien, Director of Government Affairs and Communications at Holtec International 43:40

4M ago43:40

43:40

With energy consumption skyrocketing and sustainability challenges becoming more pressing, nuclear energy is once again in the spotlight. But while its potential is undeniable, there's still a lot of public misperception of nuclear. For many, the words "nuclear energy" conjure outdated fears that overlook decades of innovation, safety advancements,…

1
My Dinner With Sonnet 45:09

4M ago45:09

45:09

(00:03) Exploring Consciousness and Understanding (10:42) Engaging With AI Cognitive Architecture (29:56) Exploring AI Dialogue and Development (43:58) Authentic Collaboration With AI (00:03) Exploring Consciousness and Understanding This chapter takes a unique turn as I share an intriguing exchange with Claude Sonnet 3.5, an advanced AI model. Our…

1
Forget “That’s How We’ve Always Made It” and Teach the Design Freedom of 3D Printing - Shon Anderson, CEO of B9Creations 46:27

4M ago46:27

46:27

When used to its full potential, additive manufacturing can revolutionize the way we design and make things. But too often, educators and manufacturers are stuck in old ways of thinking. In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner welcomes Shon Anderson, CEO of B9Creations, to discuss how 3D printing is advancing both industry and edu…

1
Consumerism 42:21

5M ago42:21

42:21

(00:03) Exploring Consumerism's Impact and Origins (10:39) Navigating Consumerism (21:08) Addressing Consumerism's Effects and Accountability (34:29) Impacts of Consumerism on Mental Health (00:03) Exploring Consumerism's Impact and Origins This chapter kicks off 2025 with an exploration of consumerism, tracing its origins and examining its impact …

1
13 Predictions for Technical Education in 2025 49:05

5M ago49:05

49:05

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time for our annual predictions episode! What trends will shape technical education, industry, and workforce development in the year to come? This week, Matt dives into the most pressing topics for 2025: from AI in education, to economic and workforce trends, to new technologies to keep an eye on. With 13 predictions …

1
'Twas the Night Before TechEd Christmas 5:09

5M ago5:09

5:09

'Twas the night before Christmas, And STEM and TechEd Had closed up their classrooms, a long break ahead. The students all home not shedding a tear That school was on hold till the start of next year. Quiet the trainers pneumatics, hydraulics No action on systems to learn mechatronics. The robots all homed, depowered and sleeping Routers and mills …

1
Santa, Baby! 38:05

5M ago38:05

38:05

(00:02) Exploring Shamanistic Origins of Santa Claus (14:45) The Multi-Faceted Origins of Santa (19:26) The Commercialization of Santa Claus (31:03) Exploring the Meaning of Santa Claus (00:02) Exploring Shamanistic Origins of Santa Claus This chapter takes us on a fascinating exploration of the legendary figure of Santa Claus, focusing on his less…

1
When Science Fiction Becomes Reality: AI, XR and the Path to the Singularity - Toshi Hoo, Director of the Emerging Media Lab at Institute for the Future 43:14

5M ago43:14

43:14

Are we ready for a world where AI and technology shape every corner of our lives? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Toshi Hoo, Director of the Emerging Media Lab at the Institute for the Future, to explore how technology is transforming the way we communicate, collaborate, and connect. From the breakthroughs o…

1
Gary Bertoline (part 2), Use-Inspired Research 29:29

5M ago29:29

29:29

Purdue Polytechnic, a college known for hands-on teaching & learning, needed a stronger research portfolio. Gary Bertoline, distinguished professor and former dean, helped professors start doing in research what they already did incredibly well in teaching: to apply theory to practical, real-world situations. It’s called use-inspired research. See …

1
Advanced Manufacturing Breakthroughs to "Solve the Big Problems" - Bill Peter, Director for Advanced Manufacturing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory 50:58

5M ago50:58

50:58

Ready to hear some of the most cutting-edge advancements in 3D printing, bio-materials and smart systems? Matt Kirchner sits down with Dr. Bill Peter, Director of Advanced Manufacturing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). From large-scale 3D printing to the use of bio-based materials, Dr. Peter is leading initiatives that are redefining the po…

1
Made in America: The Economic and Workforce Benefits of Reshoring Manufacturing - Harry Moser, Founder of the Reshoring Initiative 46:56

6M ago46:56

46:56

With U.S. manufacturing facing a potential shortfall of 7.5 million skilled workers, how can we bring jobs back and build the workforce to sustain them? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Harry Moser, founder and president of the Reshoring Initiative, to explore the critical intersection of reshoring manufactur…

1
Where Art Meets Engineering: How Creativity Fuels Precision in Swiss Machining - George Media, VP of Operations at Tsugami America 34:35

6M ago34:35

34:35

Is creativity the most underrated skill in machining? This week, Matt dives deep into the world of Swiss machining with George Media, Vice President of Operations for Tsugami America. They explore how this innovative machining method, originally designed for crafting intricate watch parts, has evolved into a versatile tool for manufacturing precisi…

1
Beyond the Buzz: The Real State of Artificial Intelligence, and 9 Insights To Move Us Forward 44:41

6M ago44:41

44:41

From boardrooms to classrooms, AI is making waves—but what do organizational leaders really think of artificial intelligence? In this episode, host Matt Kirchner goes beyond the buzzwords to share real data and insights from a groundbreaking research report on artificial intelligence. From industry leaders to educators, discover what people at the …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Polytechnic Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen