In this episode Ixchell Reyes and Brent Warner discuss the integration of technology in English as a Second or Other Language teaching, coinciding with the upcoming release of Brent’s new book. They emphasize the importance of using technology to enhance student learning beyond traditional methods, highlighting a student-centered approach. Brent shares specific classroom activities from his book that effectively utilize technology to improve listening and writing skills. The episode also addresses the challenges teachers face in staying updated with new educational technologies, stressing the need to focus on effective tools rather than just the latest trends.

Listen for a special chance to participate in a giveaway and other surprises!

Show notes at www.DIESOL.org/121

Tired of textbooks that leave you scrambling to create supplemental activities? Join Brent and Ixchell as they break down what actually makes a language textbook worth your time and money. From spotting integrated skills and authentic materials to ensuring cultural representation that reflects your diverse classroom, they reveal the insider secrets of textbook evaluation. Discover why layout matters more than you think, how to push back on publishers, and what to look for beyond just pretty pictures. Whether you're stuck with assigned texts or have the freedom to choose, this episode will transform how you evaluate teaching materials. Stop letting textbooks control your teaching—make them work for you!

Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/120

Ready to present at conferences, but don’t know where to start? We’re here to guide you through the ins and outs of getting your name on the conference program.

If you've been attending conferences and you're thinking about the possibility of presenting, we're here to break down the things you should consider. The world needs to hear from you, so make sure your voice is out there!

Check out our advice on how to break into the conference presenting world!

Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/119

Join Brent and Ixchell as they dive into the top AI questions educators are asking right now. Straight from the TESOL conference, they break down the most pressing concerns about AI tools, from choosing the right platform to understanding classroom applications. Discover practical insights, hear real teacher experiences, and get a clear view of how AI is transforming language education.

Are you heading to TESOL 2025 in Long Beach? Brent and Ixchell share all the details about their presentations, including panels on AI in materials development, AI-generated artwork for language learning, and strategies for individualizing writing. Get the inside scoop on the revival of Drinks with DIESOL as well as their live podcast recording at the conference. They also highlight interesting sessions they're planning to attend, covering everything from social justice issues to neuroscience in language learning. Plus, Brent reveals his exciting new ELT Toolkit being launched through TESOL! Whether you're attending the conference or just curious about what's happening in the TESOL world, this episode offers a useful teacher's preview of what to expect in Long Beach.

Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/117

Tired of bloated all-in-one platforms that do too much? Discover simple, single-use tools that do one thing well and make your life easier! In this episode, Brent and Ixchell share their favorite free and low-cost tools that can streamline your teaching workflow - most with no logins required. Plus, get the scoop on their upcoming time at TESOL and a potential in-person meetup.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover versatile tools that enhance student engagement and learning

• Learn about accessible, fuss-free alternatives to complex edtech platforms

• Gain insights into leveraging technology to boost productivity as an ESL educator

Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/116

Feeling overwhelmed by everything happening in the world? You’re not alone. In this candid episode, Brent and Ixchell open up about the struggles of coping with uncertainty, stress, and anxiety—both for themselves and their students. They share practical strategies for staying grounded, maintaining mental well-being, and finding small moments of joy in difficult times.

🎙️ In This Episode, You'll Hear About:

• Practical coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety
• How disconnecting from social media can improve your mental health
• The importance of real-life connections and small acts of creation
• Why humor and positivity can be powerful tools for resilience

Tune in for an honest conversation and helpful takeaways to help you (and your students) navigate these challenging moments.

Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/115

What’s the buzz about BlueSky? Should you join the migration from Twitter?

In this episode, Brent and Ixchell explore BlueSky, the emerging social media platform educators are flocking to. Reflecting on Twitter’s past and this promising alternative, they dive into BlueSky’s potential for professional networks and classroom impact. Whether you’re curious about its decentralized structure or how it stacks up for educators, this episode will guide you through the ins and outs of this new digital space.

Tune in to learn:

• Why educators are moving from Twitter to BlueSky.
• BlueSky’s unique features, including moderation and data portability.
• How to build your Professional Learning Network (PLN) on this new platform.
• Tips on finding and joining BlueSky educator communities.

Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/114