We tend to think expertise is always an advantage, but what if knowing too much can actually hold you back? In this episode, Ixchell & Brent explore the research showing that experts can struggle with creative problem-solving in ways beginners don't. Discover why well-worn mental pathways can become traps, how automaticity makes it harder to explain what you know, and when a fresh perspective beats years of experience. Listen in for ways to open your mind back up to the "beginner's mindset" and seeing your students' learning experience with fresh eyes.

Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/129

Halloween classroom activities don't have to be boring. We've got 13 ideas that are actually going to make your students want to learn - from storytelling twists that'll get everyone engaged to activities that go way beyond just putting on a costume.

In this episode, we're breaking down creative approaches that work across different language levels. Have some fun using these strategies to make your classroom come back from the dead. Whether you're teaching beginners or advanced students, we've got something that'll spark their imagination and make learning feel like an adventure. Want to know how? Tune in!

Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/128

In Episode 127 we're exploring Open Educational Resources (OER), an affordable, customizable alternative to pricey textbooks. We'll dive into what OER is, benefits of an OER, how and why Brent is building his own OER, and more. OER isn't without its challenges. Designing well and integrating activities can be tricky, as Brent explains. How can a teacher start building their own OER? Tune in to learn more!

Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/127

We're teaming up for a shared episode with the Anna and Shè from the Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast to talk about the what reflective teaching is and how to start finding ways to incorporate it into your work.

This is part two of a two-part experimental mini-series, continuing where we left of and moving into conversations about practical strategies to implement Reflective Teaching.

The previous episode was done the DIESOL way, and this episode is done the Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast way. If you liked this episdoe, please check out more of Anna and Shé's work as they do excellent work contributing to the field.

Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/126

We're teaming up for a shared episode with the Anna and Shè from the Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast to talk about the what reflective teaching is and how to start finding ways to incorporate it into your work. This episode goes deep - far beyond thinking about your lesson and moving into transformative teaching for dedicated educators. Listen in for a deeper understanding of reflective teaching and approaches you can make to use it to improve experiences for both you and your students.

This is part one of a two-part experimental mini-series. This episode is done the DIESOL way, and the next episode will be done the Teacher Think-Aloud Podcast way. We hope you'll check out more of Anna and Shé's work as they do excellent work contributing to the field.

Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/125

In a world full of apps and digital tools, sometimes the most powerful classroom connections happen with nothing more than paper, name tags, and a little imagination. In this episode, we explore some of our favorite community-building ideas, and add fresh, low-tech strategies that get students moving, talking, and genuinely engaging—with each other and with the language. Whether you're just starting the term or looking to reboot your class culture mid-semester, these ideas are easy to implement, low on tech, and high on impact.

Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/124

If you're not ready to dive into anything heavy but still want to stay a little connected to your teaching brain, this one's for you. In today's episode, we're sharing low-key ways to dip into PD—stuff you can explore between naps, walks, or iced coffee refills. No pressure, no big goals—just light, helpful ideas to keep you inspired while still enjoying your break.

Show Notes: www.DIESOL.org/123

In this episode, Ixchell and Brent dive into #ISTELive 25 in San Antonio. From eye-opening sessions that revealed cutting-edge tools to the pervasive influence of AI in ESOL, we'll cover what truly stood out. Join us as Brent shares his insights on the most impactful trends for ESOL education, advice for teachers, and some memorable moments from the vendor hall. You won't want to miss this discussion on what's shaping the future of language teaching!

Show notes: www.DIESOL.org/122

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