

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

Nov 16, 2023 • 53min
Episode 249: Swivl Mirror: A New Era of AI-Driven Education Technology
Join me tonight for a great episode featuring Brian Lamb, co-CEO of Swivl, Inc., where we explore the cutting-edge intersection of technology and education. Brian, an accomplished Stanford and UNH alumnus, has pioneered innovative educational solutions. We discuss Swivl's groundbreaking product, the Swivl Mirror, an AI-driven tool reshaping classroom experiences through automated reflection, engaging calls, and interactive visual activities. Discover its seamless integration with Google Classroom, steadfast dedication to data security, and the anticipation of its new web and mobile app. Tune in for an insightful conversation on Swivl's transformative impact on education.We would greatly appreciate your support! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic 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

Nov 15, 2023 • 59min
Episode 248: Prosolve's Vision: Empowering the Whole Learner for the Future
In this episode of My EdTech Life, we're joined by Travis Allen, Founder and CEO of ProSolve, and Dr. Michelle Ament, an esteemed educational pioneer. Travis, known for his transformative approach to experiential learning, has revolutionized K-12 education with ProSolve's "Learning, Experienced" methodology. His global impact on reimagining education aligns perfectly with Dr. Ament’s advocacy for human-centered learning. Dr. Ament brings her expertise in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and innovative teaching strategies that prepare students for a post-AI world. Together, they're shaping a future of education that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and career readiness.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic 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

Nov 14, 2023 • 52min
Episode 247: edm8ker and the Bright Future of Maker Education
Join us tonight My EdTech Life for an enlightening conversation with Terence Tan, the co-founder and General Manager of edm8ker LLC. From his early days teaching English and History to his significant role in Singapore's Ministry of Education, Terence has been a driving force in STEAM/STEM education. Discover how his work bridges the gap between traditional schooling and the needs of the modern workforce. Learn about edm8ker's innovative approach in the US, using 'Eddy' to empower educators and prepare students for a rapidly changing world. Tune in for an episode full of inspiring insights and forward-thinking ideas in education.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic 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

Nov 8, 2023 • 40min
Episode 246: Recess is Over: Reinventing Life After Teaching
Join me as I welcome Ali Simon and JoDee Scissors, the hosts of the Teacher Shift podcast, in a captivating conversation about transitioning from teaching to new career paths. Ali, with her experience in grant and project management, and JoDee, who ventured into new creative endeavors, share their wealth of knowledge on the intricacies of teacher identity, work-life balance, and strategies for a meaningful career shift.The episode is not just about why teachers leave the profession but also how they can thrive beyond it. Ali and JoDee are not just advocates for change but also ambassadors for growth and fulfillment in every teacher's professional journey. Don't miss this authentic episode about the opportunities and challenges of reinventing oneself post-teaching, with real stories and practical advice from those who have walked the path.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic 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

Nov 7, 2023 • 1h 5min
Episode 245: Derivita's Blueprint for Modern Math Learning
In this revealing episode of My EdTech Life, we invite Devlin Daley, the co-founder and CEO of Derivita, to discuss his revolutionary math platform and its impact on K-12 education and beyond. From Devlin's early journey as a computer science student frustrated with existing education technology to his innovative solutions to complex mathematical education challenges, this episode is an eye-opener. Listen as Devlin shares the story behind the creation of Derivita and its mission to improve math education, the unique features of the platform, and its alignment with different state standards and curriculums. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with valuable information for educators, tech enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs alike.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic 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

Oct 25, 2023 • 58min
Episode 244: Generation Mindful: Nurturing Resilience
In tonight's episode, we are thrilled to have Suzanne Tucker, the mind behind Generation Mindful, join us. We explore her innovative approach to nurturing emotional intelligence in children through playful, expert-designed tools. Discover how her Time-In Toolkit and Snuggle Buddies™ Emotions Plush are revolutionizing learning and helping to raise caring, confident, and resilient children. As we discuss positive parenting and creating supportive learning environments, prepare for a heartwarming conversation filled with insights on connecting with young ones on an emotional level and fostering an emotionally healthy world for generations to come.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic 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

Oct 24, 2023 • 54min
Episode 243: Harnessing Community: The Buzly Blueprint for Education
In tonight's episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Srinjay Verma, the visionary behind Buzly, a student-centric platform transforming the educational landscape at Sacramento State. Buzly has emerged as a beacon of connection in a post-pandemic world from a resale marketplace idea to creating a thriving online community. Srinjay shares the challenges, the pivots, and the incredible impact Buzly has had in fostering a sense of belonging among students. Tune in as we explore how Buzly is not only breaking down barriers of isolation but setting a new paradigm in EdTech, one campus at a time.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic 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

Oct 20, 2023 • 52min
Episode 242: The Swing Education Approach to Subbing
I am excited to welcome Mike Teng, the visionary behind Swing Education, as our special guest tonight. I'm excited to dive into how Swing Education revolutionizes traditional staffing by connecting K-12 schools with top-notch substitute teachers. You'll discover how their technology-enabled marketplace makes a real difference by addressing the teacher shortage issue and providing flexible substitute teaching opportunities. Best of all, their efforts are helping schools ensure that learning never stops. So, join us for an engaging discussion on the potential of EdTech in reshaping educational ecosystems and guaranteeing uninterrupted learning experiences for students. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic 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

Oct 18, 2023 • 51min
Episode 241: Transforming Math Anxiety into Excitement with Heather Brown
On this episode of My EdTech Life, I have the pleasure of chatting with Heather Brown, an experienced educator at East Coloma-Nelson Elementary School in Illinois. Heather is a renowned figure in the educational technology community, known for her unwavering dedication to using cutting-edge edtech tools to transform classrooms. She inspires many, and I can't wait to hear her story and learn about her strategies for making math fun for young learners. So please sit back, relax, and let's hear Heather's inspiring journey together.Want to get your brand in front of passionate educators and tech enthusiasts? Sponsor an episode of our podcast and amplify your reach! Reach out to myedtechlife@gmail.com, and let's make an impact together!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic 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

Oct 17, 2023 • 54min
Episode 240: Tech-Powered Learning with Short Answer
Join us for a transformative episode of My EdTech Life as we explore the dynamic fusion of education and technology with Adam Sparks, co-founder of Short Answer. From his roots on a Nebraska farm to teaching in diverse global contexts and a stint at Stanford, Adam's journey culminates in creating Short Answer—an edtech marvel revolutionizing K-12 education through peer feedback. In this episode, you will uncover the future of formative assessment, engaging writing, and the profound impact of innovation in education. Whether you're an educator, an edtech enthusiast, or simply passionate about enhancing learning, this conversation is your gateway to the future of education.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/myedtechlife/supportAuthentic 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