Positive Self Talk in the Form of Podcasts

I'm a recent Podcast junkie.  I'm usually a few years behind technology, so this really doesn't come as much of a surprise to only now discover the world of podcasts.  My relatively new experience with podcasts has taught me a couple of things.

First, be prepared to soak in podcasts in moderation.  Much like the abundance of good reading materials, there is an abundance of good podcasts.  My advice is to surf and test drive two or three that are of interest to you and that post new episodes fairly regularly.  Be careful not to drive yourself crazy and attempt to become a regular with too many different podcasts.

Second, be prepared to be inspired.  Social media has opened up the possibilities of hearing more and more stories about inspiring people.  I listen to 10-Minute Teacher by Vicky Davis every weekday.  I put in my earphones, start the treadmill, and fill my brain with all sorts of things that teachers and educators all over the world are sharing.  I find it inspiring to hear voices that are passionate about teaching.

Third, be prepared to be comforted.  We all have doubts from time-to-time about everything from our personal lives to recreational lives to relationships to our professional careers.  Chances are that you and I are doing a lot of things right.  Listening to podcasts episodes often confirm what I already know, which brings me comfort.

Fourth, be prepared to be somewhat uncomfortable.  How can podcasts be inspiring, comforting, and uncomfortable?  Great question.  While I am inspired by my podcasts, occasionally they leave me a bit frustrated.  I hear wonderful suggestions and teaching strategies and coaching strategies and technology applications, and I start to wonder how I can do more, which is uncomfortable.  When I get to those moments, I try to remind myself that while I always have room to grow, I really have developed many aspects of my life.

You need to make your own adventure into podcasts, but my regulars include 10-Minute Teacher, which I previously mentioned.  I also enjoy Pure Sweat Basketball Show (Alan Stein), Talks With Teachers (Brian Sztabnik), and Google Teacher Tribe (Matt Miller and Kasey Bell_.  And as a back up, I sometimes listen to TED Talks

If you have a podcast to recommend please email it to me at jbizarri@rr300.org