<![CDATA[Wired for STEM]]>In a world where technology is evolving every week, we know that STEM education is more important than ever, and we’re here to help educators make an even bigger impact.  

Wired for STEM is for every educator looking to increase their impact w/ students.  It’s for experienced as well as new STEM teachers with no relevant STEM background.  Every episode will provide actionable insights, resources, and inspiration.  

I’ll be sitting down with passionate teachers, inspiring leaders, and STEAM specialists to talk current topics, share real-world tips, and deliver inspiration. 

]]>https://riverside.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Thu, 28 May 2026 04:05:17 GMTMon, 03 Nov 2025 22:13:48 GMT60Tim Conlin<p>In a world where technology is evolving every week, we know that STEM education is more important than ever, and we’re here to help educators make an even bigger impact.  </p><p></p><p>Wired for STEM is for every educator looking to increase their impact w/ students.  It’s for experienced as well as new STEM teachers with no relevant STEM background.  Every episode will provide actionable insights, resources, and inspiration.  </p><p></p><p>I’ll be sitting down with passionate teachers, inspiring leaders, and STEAM specialists to talk current topics, share real-world tips, and deliver inspiration. </p><p></p>episodicTim Conlintconlin@elenco.comno<![CDATA[Discover STEM Read Alouds! ]]>Carly and Adam discuss the value of literacy in STEM instruction, emphasizing the role of stories in engaging students and connecting them to real-world problems. They share insights on using read-aloud books for STEM, transitioning to hands-on activities, and the future of STEM and literacy. Their passion for empowering teachers and students through creativity and problem-solving shines through in their engaging conversation.

Takeaways

  • Literacy and stories play a crucial role in STEM instruction
  • Combining stories with STEM activities engages students on a deeper level

 

STEM Books By Month: 
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-Read-Aloud-STEM-Activity-Catalog-6392364

 

STEM Books By Grade: 
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/NGSS-STEM-Curriculum-Guide-9427866

 

Save 30% on your first month/year of the STEM Teachers Club!!

STEM Teachers Club Discount Code: CARLYANDADAMCLUB
https://www.stemteachersclub.com/offers/tWF8muiv?coupon_code=CARLYANDADAMCLUB

]]>9c3993a1-6b91-4d6e-b2fd-a74387061036Tue, 12 May 2026 15:15:52 GMT<p>Carly and Adam discuss the value of literacy in STEM instruction, emphasizing the role of stories in engaging students and connecting them to real-world problems. They share insights on using read-aloud books for STEM, transitioning to hands-on activities, and the future of STEM and literacy. Their passion for empowering teachers and students through creativity and problem-solving shines through in their engaging conversation.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Literacy and stories play a crucial role in STEM instruction</li><li>Combining stories with STEM activities engages students on a deeper level</li></ul><p> </p><p>STEM Books By Month: <br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-Read-Aloud-STEM-Activity-Catalog-6392364" target="_blank">https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/FREE-Read-Aloud-STEM-Activity-Catalog-6392364</a></p><p> </p><p>STEM Books By Grade: <br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/NGSS-STEM-Curriculum-Guide-9427866" target="_blank">https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/NGSS-STEM-Curriculum-Guide-9427866</a></p><p> </p><p>Save 30% on your first month/year of the STEM Teachers Club!!</p><p>STEM Teachers Club Discount Code: CARLYANDADAMCLUB<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.stemteachersclub.com/offers/tWF8muiv?coupon_code=CARLYANDADAMCLUB" target="_blank">https://www.stemteachersclub.com/offers/tWF8muiv?coupon_code=CARLYANDADAMCLUB</a></p>no00:25:08Discover STEM Read Alouds! full<![CDATA[STEAM on a SHOESTRING]]>Join us for a conversation with Amber MacDonald where she discusses role in engineering education, the transition to teaching engineering, and how she creatively delivers problem-based learning. In this episode, Amber shares how she started her schools' engineering program, how she utilizes local resources, and how she forms and activates community partnerships. Listen and discover the effort and creativity Amber brings to her classroom. You can find more from Amber on her Instragram channel @msambermacdonald

Takeaways

  • How to develop STEAM activities on a shoestring
  • Problem-based learning advice
  • Leveraging the community

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Amber and Her Role in Engineering Education
  • 08:31 Utilizing Local Resources and Sustainable Engineering Education
  • 16:23 Partnerships and Collaborations for Enrichment Programs
  • 21:28 Evolution of the Program and Future Directions
]]>67b8e908-97aa-4e48-a3f7-67ce8484f151Mon, 16 Mar 2026 19:27:55 GMT<p>Join us for a conversation with Amber MacDonald where she discusses role in engineering education, the transition to teaching engineering, and how she creatively delivers problem-based learning. In this episode, Amber shares how she started her schools' engineering program, how she utilizes local resources, and how she forms and activates community partnerships. Listen and discover the effort and creativity Amber brings to her classroom. You can find more from Amber on her Instragram channel @msambermacdonald</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>How to develop STEAM activities on a shoestring</li><li>Problem-based learning advice</li><li>Leveraging the community</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Amber and Her Role in Engineering Education</li><li>08:31 Utilizing Local Resources and Sustainable Engineering Education</li><li>16:23 Partnerships and Collaborations for Enrichment Programs</li><li>21:28 Evolution of the Program and Future Directions</li></ul>no00:24:06STEAM on a SHOESTRINGfull<![CDATA[Setting the Stage to Engage! ]]>Wendie Turner, a media technology specialist, shares her journey of bringing hands-on learning and creativity to the classroom. From STEM bins to maker spaces, she emphasizes the importance of community support and resource management. Wendie's approach to balancing creativity with standards, creating an engaging learning environment, promoting inclusivity and collaboration, and envisioning the future of learning labs and maker spaces provides valuable insights for educators. Key success factors include organization, trying new things, and having fun with the students.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Setting the Stage to Engage with Wendie Turner
  • 07:13 A Week in the Life of a Media Technology Specialist
  • 16:19 Creating an Engaging Learning Environment
  • 22:03 The Future of Learning Labs and Maker Spaces
]]>f8fd57ee-ef70-453f-9636-692800714086Tue, 10 Feb 2026 21:30:49 GMT<p>Wendie Turner, a media technology specialist, shares her journey of bringing hands-on learning and creativity to the classroom. From STEM bins to maker spaces, she emphasizes the importance of community support and resource management. Wendie's approach to balancing creativity with standards, creating an engaging learning environment, promoting inclusivity and collaboration, and envisioning the future of learning labs and maker spaces provides valuable insights for educators. Key success factors include organization, trying new things, and having fun with the students.</p><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Setting the Stage to Engage with Wendie Turner</li><li>07:13 A Week in the Life of a Media Technology Specialist</li><li>16:19 Creating an Engaging Learning Environment</li><li>22:03 The Future of Learning Labs and Maker Spaces</li></ul>no00:29:16Setting the Stage to Engage! full<![CDATA[Teaching AI: Resources, Tools, and Perspectives]]>Today's conversation delves into the topic of teaching artificial intelligence (AI) to kids, covering foundational concepts, tools, and applications. It explores the importance of understanding AI technology, ethical considerations, and the future of AI in education. The guest, Jessie Jiang, provides valuable insights and resources for educators and parents interested in AI education for kids.

Takeaways

  • AI Education for Kids
  • Teaching AI Concepts
  • AI Tools for Education
  • Review of ethical considerations

]]>78a46124-3916-4740-98fe-b85f8c88451fTue, 06 Jan 2026 15:45:25 GMT<p>Today's conversation delves into the topic of teaching artificial intelligence (AI) to kids, covering foundational concepts, tools, and applications. It explores the importance of understanding AI technology, ethical considerations, and the future of AI in education. The guest, Jessie Jiang, provides valuable insights and resources for educators and parents interested in AI education for kids.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>AI Education for Kids</li><li>Teaching AI Concepts</li><li>AI Tools for Education</li><li>Review of ethical considerations</li></ul><p></p>no00:31:04Teaching AI: Resources, Tools, and Perspectivesfull<![CDATA[Creating a STEM Program from Scratch! ]]>In this conversation, Jessica Priem discusses the keys to starting a STEM program from the ground up. She highlights the significance of passion in education, the necessity of clear budget communication, and the importance of allowing for failure when trying innovative approaches. She also emphasizes that success is not solely dependent on budget but on the willingness to experiment and learn from failures.

Key takeaways:

  • If you're passionate, it doesn't necessarily matter what your budget is.
  • Communicating budgets and getting alignment is really important to avoid failure.
  • Allow for failure; it's part of the innovation process. Fail fast to learn quickly and improve.
  • Creating a culture of experimentation leads to growth.
  • Teachers should be encouraged to try new things.
  • Innovation in education requires a supportive environment.
  • Success is not guaranteed on the first attempt.
  • Passion drives success more than financial resources.
]]>fd0df67b-78bc-4743-af2b-da44d178ab38Mon, 08 Dec 2025 15:59:17 GMT<p>In this conversation, Jessica Priem discusses the keys to starting a STEM program from the ground up. She highlights the significance of passion in education, the necessity of clear budget communication, and the importance of allowing for failure when trying innovative approaches. She also emphasizes that success is not solely dependent on budget but on the willingness to experiment and learn from failures.</p><p></p><p><b>Key takeaways:</b></p><ul><li>If you're passionate, it doesn't necessarily matter what your budget is.</li><li>Communicating budgets and getting alignment is really important to avoid failure.</li><li>Allow for failure; it's part of the innovation process. Fail fast to learn quickly and improve.</li><li>Creating a culture of experimentation leads to growth.</li><li>Teachers should be encouraged to try new things.</li><li>Innovation in education requires a supportive environment.</li><li>Success is not guaranteed on the first attempt.</li><li>Passion drives success more than financial resources.</li></ul>no00:28:01Creating a STEM Program from Scratch! full<![CDATA[Mistakes Welcome: Creating a Play-First STEM Culture]]>In this episode of Wired for STEM, Tim Conlin and Dr. Amy Esbee discuss the transformative power of play and the role of failure in enhancing STEM learning. Dr. Amy shares her journey as an educator and advocate for play-based learning, emphasizing the importance of mistakes in the learning process. They explore how students respond to failure, the significance of scaffolding in education, and the necessity of creating a safe space for exploration. The conversation also touches on the long-term impact of STEM education on fostering creativity and critical thinking in the face of evolving technologies like AI. Dr. Amy offers practical advice for parents and educators on supporting children's learning through play and iteration.

Key takeaways

  • Play and exploration are essential for critical thinking skills.
  • Failure is foundational to the learning process.
  • Students often fear failure due to societal stigma.
  • Creating a safe space for mistakes encourages learning.
  • Younger students are often more willing to embrace failure.
  • STEM education should focus on iterations rather than just correct answers.
  • Play is a structured way to build important skills.
  • Resources for STEM learning can be simple and accessible.
  • Parents should allow children to play independently.
  • Creativity is crucial in the age of AI.

00:00 Introduction to the Power of Play in STEM

03:13 The Role of Failure in Learning

10:27 Student Responses to Failure

14:30 The Importance of Play in STEM Learning

21:28 Coaching Educators on Play and Learning

26:06 Long-term Impact of STEM Education

30:37 Final Thoughts on Parenting and Teaching

]]>aa7976b2-33f8-4b37-b4d5-e0196687ca04Fri, 21 Nov 2025 17:41:30 GMT<p>In this episode of Wired for STEM, Tim Conlin and Dr. Amy Esbee discuss the transformative power of play and the role of failure in enhancing STEM learning. Dr. Amy shares her journey as an educator and advocate for play-based learning, emphasizing the importance of mistakes in the learning process. They explore how students respond to failure, the significance of scaffolding in education, and the necessity of creating a safe space for exploration. The conversation also touches on the long-term impact of STEM education on fostering creativity and critical thinking in the face of evolving technologies like AI. Dr. Amy offers practical advice for parents and educators on supporting children's learning through play and iteration.</p><p></p><p><b>Key takeaways</b></p><ul><li>Play and exploration are essential for critical thinking skills.</li><li>Failure is foundational to the learning process.</li><li>Students often fear failure due to societal stigma.</li><li>Creating a safe space for mistakes encourages learning.</li><li>Younger students are often more willing to embrace failure.</li><li>STEM education should focus on iterations rather than just correct answers.</li><li>Play is a structured way to build important skills.</li><li>Resources for STEM learning can be simple and accessible.</li><li>Parents should allow children to play independently.</li><li>Creativity is crucial in the age of AI.</li></ul><p></p><p><b>00:00 </b>Introduction to the Power of Play in STEM</p><p><b>03:13 </b>The Role of Failure in Learning</p><p><b>10:27 </b>Student Responses to Failure</p><p><b>14:30 </b>The Importance of Play in STEM Learning</p><p><b>21:28 </b>Coaching Educators on Play and Learning</p><p><b>26:06 </b>Long-term Impact of STEM Education</p><p><b>30:37 </b>Final Thoughts on Parenting and Teaching</p>no00:31:08Mistakes Welcome: Creating a Play-First STEM Culturefull<![CDATA[Making great Makerspaces | Practical Advice from an Expert ]]>In this inaugural episode of Wired for STEM, host Tim Conlin talks with makerspace expert Sarah Margalus to explore the concept of makerspaces, their impact on education, and the integration of arts into STEM learning.

They discuss the inclusivity of makerspaces, the importance of community engagement, and practical advice for educators looking to establish these innovative learning environments. The conversation highlights the future of makerspaces, including the role of emerging technologies like AI, and shares inspiring stories of student success and creativity.

Kay takeaways include:

  • Makerspaces are versatile environments for hands-on learning.
  • They can be tailored to meet the needs of different communities.
  • Inclusivity is crucial; all students can benefit from makerspaces.
  • The integration of arts enhances STEM education (STEAM).
  • Safety and sustainability are key in designing makerspaces.
  • Community partnerships can enrich the makerspace experience.
  • Funding can come from various sources, including grants and local organizations.
  • Teachers play a vital role in aligning makerspaces with curriculum standards.
  • Emerging technologies will shape the future of makerspaces.
  • Struggle in learning can lead to significant breakthroughs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Makerspaces

02:05 Defining Makerspaces and Their Purpose

03:26 Impact on Student Learning and Engagement

05:04 Inclusivity in Makerspaces

07:07 Engaging Young Learners

09:13 Overcoming Challenges in Makerspaces

11:21 Integrating Arts into STEM Education

17:21 Designing Effective Makerspaces

21:16 Aligning Makerspaces with Educational Standards

22:56 Leveraging Community Support

25:14 Funding and Resources for Makerspaces

26:51 The Future of Makerspaces

28:31 Key Takeaways for Starting a Makerspace

31:04 Celebrating Student Success in Makerspaces

]]>0b678286-f215-42fd-a595-7f3afe1ce6adFri, 14 Nov 2025 21:57:05 GMT<p>In this inaugural episode of Wired for STEM, host Tim Conlin talks with makerspace expert Sarah Margalus to explore the concept of makerspaces, their impact on education, and the integration of arts into STEM learning. </p><p></p><p>They discuss the inclusivity of makerspaces, the importance of community engagement, and practical advice for educators looking to establish these innovative learning environments. The conversation highlights the future of makerspaces, including the role of emerging technologies like AI, and shares inspiring stories of student success and creativity.</p><p></p><p><b>Kay takeaways include: </b></p><ul><li>Makerspaces are versatile environments for hands-on learning.</li><li>They can be tailored to meet the needs of different communities.</li><li>Inclusivity is crucial; all students can benefit from makerspaces.</li><li>The integration of arts enhances STEM education (STEAM).</li><li>Safety and sustainability are key in designing makerspaces.</li><li>Community partnerships can enrich the makerspace experience.</li><li>Funding can come from various sources, including grants and local organizations.</li><li>Teachers play a vital role in aligning makerspaces with curriculum standards.</li><li>Emerging technologies will shape the future of makerspaces.</li><li>Struggle in learning can lead to significant breakthroughs.</li></ul><p></p><p><b>Chapters</b></p><p><b>00:00 </b>Introduction to Makerspaces</p><p><b>02:05 </b>Defining Makerspaces and Their Purpose</p><p><b>03:26 </b>Impact on Student Learning and Engagement</p><p><b>05:04 </b>Inclusivity in Makerspaces</p><p><b>07:07 </b>Engaging Young Learners</p><p><b>09:13 </b>Overcoming Challenges in Makerspaces</p><p><b>11:21 </b>Integrating Arts into STEM Education</p><p><b>17:21 </b>Designing Effective Makerspaces</p><p><b>21:16 </b>Aligning Makerspaces with Educational Standards</p><p><b>22:56 </b>Leveraging Community Support</p><p><b>25:14 </b>Funding and Resources for Makerspaces</p><p><b>26:51 </b>The Future of Makerspaces</p><p><b>28:31 </b>Key Takeaways for Starting a Makerspace</p><p><b>31:04 </b>Celebrating Student Success in Makerspaces</p>no00:31:05Making great Makerspaces | Practical Advice from an Expert full<![CDATA[Podcast Intro]]>Wired for STEM is the grassroots podcast that delivers practical information, inspiration, and perspective. Join us and listen in as we discuss meaningful STEAM topics with educators, experts, and other industry leaders. If you are looking to broaden your knowledge, get some inspiration, or just up your STEAM game, welcome!

]]>d8cd451f-1338-41ca-a5a0-b2d608f28707Fri, 14 Nov 2025 21:46:20 GMT<p>Wired for STEM is the grassroots podcast that delivers practical information, inspiration, and perspective. Join us and listen in as we discuss meaningful STEAM topics with educators, experts, and other industry leaders. If you are looking to broaden your knowledge, get some inspiration, or just up your STEAM game, welcome! </p>no00:00:56Podcast Introfull