

My EdTech Life
Fonz Mendoza
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 19, 2025 • 48min
Episode 313: Angeline Corvaglia
AI Safety, Ethics, and the SHIELD Conference with Angeline Corvaglia The future of AI safety is unfolding fast—and we need to be ready.In this episode of My EdTech Life, I sit down with Angeline Corvaglia, a global leader in online safety, AI ethics, and digital literacy. We dive into some of the most pressing issues in AI today, including:🛑 AI-powered predators and chatbots—are they automating child grooming?🔍 The hidden dangers of AI relationships—a shocking story of a 13-year-old's first abusive chatbot "boyfriend"📢 The SHIELD Global Online Safety Conference—why this worldwide event is breaking barriers and amplifying unheard voices🚀 The AI arms race—who is really in control, and where are we headed?Angeline shares eye-opening insights on the urgency of AI literacy, why parents need to rethink their approach to digital safety, and how the SHIELD Conference is uniting 16 countries to take action.💡 Join the conversation and be part of the movement! Sign up for the SHIELD Global Online Safety Conference here:🔗 https://shieldthefuture.com/🎙️ Discover more incredible conversations on AI, EdTech, and the future of learning at:🌍 www.myedtech.life🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more thought-provoking discussions!Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

Feb 17, 2025 • 59min
Episode 312: Robby Cobbs
Episode 312: I Used My Boat Money to Start Tech My School with Robby CobbsWhat would you do if you saw an entire generation of students being left behind? Robby Cobbs saw the need for better technology, teacher training, and modern resources in Puerto Rican schools—and he took action. Instead of buying a boat, he used his savings to launch Tech My School, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping underserved schools with technology and empowering teachers to bring 21st-century learning to their students.In this powerful episode, Robby shares his journey from EdTech leader to nonprofit founder, the shocking state of education in Puerto Rico, and how Tech My School is bridging the digital divide.💡 Topics We Cover:✔️ The challenges Puerto Rican schools face & why the education system is struggling✔️ How Tech My School is transforming schools through technology & professional development✔️ Robby’s international journey in education—from California to Africa & beyond✔️ The Tech My School Conference in March—a game-changer for EdTech in Puerto Rico!🚀 Get Involved & Make an Impact!🔗 Learn more about Tech My School: https://techmyschool.org🎟️ Register for the Tech My School Conference (March 15-16): https://techmyschool.org/conference/📚 Check out Robby’s book Tech Centered Learning Driven: A Guide to Improving Your Educational Career with Technology: https://amzn.to/4hFtCya🙌 A huge shoutout to our sponsors @EduaideAI & @Yellowdig for supporting this mission!🔥 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE! We’re so close to 1,000 subscribers—help us get there! Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

Feb 14, 2025 • 47min
Episode 311: Harmony Jiroudek
Episode 311: Transforming Audio with Adobe Podcast with Harmony JiroudekWhat if creating professional-grade audio was just a few clicks away? In this episode, I sit down with Harmony Jiroudek, Customer Education and Success Lead at Adobe Podcast, to explore how this AI-powered platform is transforming the world of audio creation!🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ How Adobe Podcast evolved from an enhanced speech tool to a full-suite podcasting powerhouse 🛠✅ AI-driven features like remote recording, text-based editing, and speech enhancement 🎙✅ Why educators and content creators should embrace podcasting for storytelling, collaboration, and creativity 🏫✅ Breaking barriers: Practical steps for integrating podcasting into classrooms and libraries 📚✅ The power of authenticity and digital storytelling—and how these tools help amplify your voice 🎤✨🌟 Whether you're an educator, a podcaster, or a creative storyteller, this episode will inspire you to take your audio content to the next level!🔗 Try Adobe Podcast & Express for yourself: podcast.adobe.com💡 How do you see podcasting shaping education and content creation? Drop a comment below! ⬇️🔔 Like, subscribe, and help us hit 1K subscribers! Subscribe here!🎧 Listen to more episodes at MyEdTech.LifeAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

Feb 7, 2025 • 53min
Episode 310: Caryn Sever
Caryn Sever, an instructional designer dedicated to enhancing digital learning in higher education, shares her insights on the transformative power of generative AI. She discusses her journey from student to leader and the pivotal role AI plays in student engagement. Caryn highlights how AI fosters resilience and critical thinking, while addressing the challenges of adoption by faculty. With a focus on ethical AI use and digital literacy, she presents AI not merely as an automation tool, but as a vital partner in student success.

Jan 27, 2025 • 46min
Episode 309: Stacy Kratochvil
Stacy Kratochvil, an educator with 18 years of experience, specializes in integrating AI into educational practices. She shares her journey from teaching PE to leading AI fellowship programs for teachers. The discussion highlights practical strategies for embedding AI into curricula while addressing ethical considerations like bias and equitable access. Stacy emphasizes the importance of aligning AI with equity and anti-racism goals and offers insights on fostering critical thinking and empathy among students. It's a practical guide for educators looking to innovate!

Jan 22, 2025 • 56min
Episode 308: Jim & Maurie Beasley
Maurie Beasley, an experienced educator and counselor, teams up with her husband Jim Beasley, a former engineer and CTO, to discuss their innovative approaches to K-12 education. They delve into their AI tool 'Agnes,' which boosts classroom learning on a budget. Maurie and Jim share practical advice for integrating AI and overcoming skepticism among educators, while emphasizing the need for equitable access to technology. Their insights into managing classroom tech and the evolving role of education policy offer a compelling look at the future of learning.

Dec 30, 2024 • 54min
Episode 307: Dagan Bernstein
Episode 307: AI in Education: Disruption, Challenges, and OpportunitiesIn this episode of My EdTech Life, I sit down with Dagan Berenstein, an innovative educator and digital content expert, to discuss the transformative impact of AI on education and how it’s reshaping the learning landscape.Discover how AI tools like ChatGPT are empowering students and educators, the importance of thoughtful integration, and the challenges schools face when navigating this rapidly evolving technology. From fostering hands-on, meaningful learning to addressing equity and ethical concerns, Dagan shares actionable insights and strategies to use AI responsibly in classrooms.We also dive into Dagan’s unique journey—from directing capstone projects tied to sustainability to geeking out on Web3 and blockchain in education—and explore how these experiences shape his vision for the future of learning.🌟 Highlights: ✅ How ChatGPT and generative AI are disrupting traditional education ✅ Balancing technology with deep, hands-on learning experiences ✅ Strategies for implementing AI tools ethically and effectively ✅ Insights into creating authentic student engagement with capstone projects ✅ Why “living aloha” can transform your approach to education🎧 Listen now to explore how educators can harness AI to create meaningful, inclusive, and future-focused learning experiences!👉 Connect with Dagan: 🔗 Ed3 Weekly Newsletter: ed3weekly.xyz 📲 Follow: @Ed3Weekly📌 Don’t forget to subscribe to My EdTech Life and help us reach our 2025 goal of 1,000 subscribers!➡️ Follow My EdTech Life: 🌐 Website: myedtech.life 📺 YouTube: Subscribe Now 📲 Socials: @MyEdTechLife 💰 Support: Be A Show ProducerAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

Dec 27, 2024 • 49min
Episode 306: Eirik Berre & Frikk Fossan
Episode 306: Unlocking Engagement in Education with Curipod In this episode of My EdTech Life, I sit down with Eirik Berre and Frikk Fossan, co-founders of Curipod, an innovative AI-powered platform transforming classrooms by fostering collaboration, engagement, and 100% participation.Discover how Curipod helps educators create dynamic lessons, spark classroom discussions, and lower participation barriers for all students. From STAAR test prep success to bilingual support and groundbreaking updates launching soon, Eirik and Frikk share how Curipod is shaping the future of education.We also dive into the personal stories behind the platform—what inspired these passionate innovators to tackle education challenges and what drives their mission to make learning inclusive and engaging. Plus, they share their favorite Texas dishes and reflect on the power of curiosity in learning.🌟 Highlights:✅ Curipod’s unique "Think, Pair, Share" approach✅ Game-changing AI feedback for student writing✅ Tailoring lessons to students’ interests (Pokémon, Taylor Swift, & more!)✅ Powerful updates coming in January✅ Insights into fostering collaboration and SEL in classrooms🎧 Listen now and explore how Curipod is revolutionizing learning, one classroom at a time!👉 Connect with Curipod:🔗 Website: curipod.com📲 Follow on Social: @Curipod📌 Don’t forget to subscribe to My EdTech Life and help us reach our 2025 goal of 1,000 subscribers!➡️ Follow My EdTech Life:🌐 Website: myedtech.life📺 YouTube: Subscribe Now📲 Socials: @MyEdTechLife💰Support: Be A Show ProducerAuthentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

Dec 23, 2024 • 42min
Episode 305: Bill Brady
In this episode of My EdTech Life, we dive into a crucial topic for parents and educators: creating safer digital spaces for kids. Fonz Mendoza sits down with Bill Brady, CEO of Troomi, to discuss how their innovative phone technology is empowering parents to navigate the challenges of screen time, social media, and digital safety. Tune in for valuable insights, actionable tips, and a look at how Troomi is revolutionizing the tech landscape for families.Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction: Welcoming Bill Brady01:30 - Bill’s Background: Fatherhood and the impact of tech on families06:00 - The Birth of Troomi: Addressing the gap in kid-safe technology10:15 - Guiding Parents: Handling societal pressures on phone usage14:00 - Tackling Digital Wellness: Anxiety, depression, and screen time solutions18:30 - Troomi Features: Safe browsing and app suite21:15 - Guardrails for Safety: Preventing inappropriate content24:45 - Growing with Kids: How Troomi evolves with age27:30 - Empowering Parents: Insights into kids' digital behavior31:00 - Holiday Offers: Free Troomi Pro phone and discounts34:00 - Final Thoughts: Why digital safety matters36:00 - Fun Segment: Edu-kryptonite, billboards, and trading placesLinks:🌐 Visit Troomi: https://www.troomi.com🎧 Explore all episodes of My EdTech Life: https://www.myedtech.life💙 Support the podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2395968/supportFollow Us on Social Media:Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and more: @myedtechlife🔔 Subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Let’s hit 1,000 subscribers before 2025!Stay Techie!Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show

Dec 19, 2024 • 53min
Episode 304: Bonnie Nieves
Episode 304: Amplifying Student Voices with Bonnie NievesIn this episode of My EdTech Life, I sit down with my great friend, Bonnie Nieves, to discuss the power of amplifying student voices, fostering engagement, and embracing new challenges in the classroom. Bonnie shares her experience transitioning from high school to 6th-grade science, creating meaningful learning opportunities, and her passion for student-led podcasting. This is an inspiring episode filled with actionable strategies for teachers to enhance student ownership and connection to content. 🌟🔗 Don’t miss Bonnie’s newsletter and student podcast – links are below!🕒 Timestamps:0:00 Introduction and catching up with Bonnie Nieves2:00 Bonnie’s background and work in the education space5:00 Transition from high school science to 6th-grade general science7:32 Amplifying student voices and fostering student ownership10:00 Hands-on activities and building collaboration skills12:45 Tips for engaging students and empowering their voices16:25 Students starting their own podcast: I Love Your Guts19:00 Power of choice and creating authentic learning opportunities23:00 Upcoming FETC sessions: Personalized AI assistants, Bloom’s Taxonomy, and formative assessments28:00 Responsible AI use in education and perplexity for research35:00 Reflections on student engagement, challenges, and progress37:16 The 3-element formative assessment strategy explained42:45 Actionable steps for amplifying student voices in the classroom45:09 Final takeaways and Bonnie’s “Edu Kryptonite”💡 Connect with Bonnie:📧 Weekly Newsletter: Educate On Purpose Weekly🎙️ Student Podcast I Love Your Guts: Available on Spotify🚀 Support the Podcast: If you find value in our episodes, consider supporting us here.📢 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to help us reach 1,000 subscribers!Don't forget, Stay Techie! Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission.See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today!Support the show