Hack Learning

Hack Learning

Author: Mark Barnes Language: English Episodes: 100
Mark Barnes hosts Hack Learning, a podcast built on the idea that the most impactful changes in education often come from simple, actionable shifts. This isn't about theoretical debates; it's a toolbox of practical strategies for educators, school leaders, and parents who are ready to rethink the status quo. Each episode tackles a specific, real-world challenge, breaking down complex ideas into manageable steps you can apply immediately. You'll hear concrete methods for revitalizing classroom engagement, transforming assessment to truly measure learning, and cutting through the administrative noise to focus on what matters. The conversations explore how to leverage technology meaningfully, not just for its own sake, and how to create environments where even the most hesitant student finds a path forward. From reimagining homework and fostering a genuine love of reading to streamlining leadership and crafting effective communication, this podcast delivers concise, proven hacks. It’s for anyone who believes that better practices lead to better outcomes and wants to translate that belief into daily action. Tune in for straightforward, no-jargon insights that make improvement feel not only possible but achievable.
Episodes
156: Educators fear they won't make it through this year [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:15
We're in an education crisis, and many teachers fear they won't make it through this year. Some are begging for help; some are preaching self-care. Others are quitting--just walking out of their classrooms and schools an…
155: Note to angry, litigious, anti-mask parents and their friends [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:46
Angry, litigious, anti-mask parents are suing schools in Ohio, and Mark Barnes has Hacks you can share to stop this madness and solve one of education's biggest problems.1 -- Don't sue schools over mask mandates2 -- Don'…
154: How to Hack Teacher Burnout [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:34
Sometimes teacher burnout is due to shame and blame and avoiding the problems. Mark shares some quick hacks from Hacking Teacher Burnout author Amber Harper. Learn how to seek help and to seek "help seekers." More episod…
153: Preparing for Change in Education [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:05
Mark is joined by two national distinguished principals, Tony Sinanis, an administrator in New York and co-author of Hacking Leadership, and Jessica Cabeen, a principal in Minnesota and author of Lead With Grace and Hack…
152: Tips and tools to identify anxiety and help students cope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:18
In this brief excerpt from the Times 10 Roundtable, Mark Barnes talks with anxiety experts Christine Ravesi-Weinstein and Connie Hamilton about anxious students' triggers, while providing powerful tips and tools for help…
151: Hacking Distance Learning in a Pandemic World and Beyond [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:13
Mark Barnes shares an excerpt of the Times 10 Roundtable Webinar--Hacking Distance Learning: How to Deliver Impactful Instruction When Teaching from Home.Times 10 teachers, school leaders, and authors unpack the problems…
150: Spare the rod, SAVE the child [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:58
A school district in Texas is bringing back the paddle, because some parents okayed teachers hitting their children. Mark Barnes compares this to 1950s style discipline and shares the thoughts of Nathan Maynard, co-autho…
149: How you can LEARN to be a Modern Mentor [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:05
The focus and goal of mentoring is not to point out weak performance, but rather to shape a career and develop potential. Before you can be a mentor, you have to LEARN what it means to be a Modern Mentor. Mark Barnes sha…
148: How to connect with introverts [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 8:10
James had what appeared to be some major problems. How did his teacher connect with this introverted student? You'll be amazed at how simple it was.For more on connecting with introverted students, look inside Quiet Kids…
147 - Understanding your quiet kids [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:24
Teacher, author, keynote speaker Chrissy Romano Arrabito was the student who always raised her hand first, always had the answer, was eager to share, was well-behaved, and made good grades. She was, from any teacher's pe…