Ep. 289 | Will AI Kill Critical Thinking? Carl Hooker’s 6 Predictions For 2026

Will AI kill critical thinking? Explore six of Carl Hooker’s 2026 edtech predictions about artificial intelligence in schools, digital literacy, student data, and the future of learning management systems.

Want to bring your whole district together with one simple tool? ClassDojo for Districts makes it easy to engage families and strengthen school communities—at every level. It’s the number one communication app trusted by millions of K-12 teachers, now with district-wide oversight and controls. From Pre-K to high school, ClassDojo connects your schools and families in one seamless place. Learn more at classdojo.com/districts.

In this episode, Carl Hooker and I unpack six of his bold 2026 edtech predictions, including students becoming the product in the AI economy, the rise of AI generated “pink slime” misinformation, the threat to critical thinking, and the emergence of a unified Teacher Operating System. We also explore wearable tech, social media trust, and the fine line between innovation and surveillance. If you want clarity and practical insight on leading responsibly in an AI saturated world, this conversation is for you.

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About Carl Hooker

Carl Hooker has spent the past 27 years in education as a teacher and administrator focused on the thoughtful integration of technology and innovation in schools. He consults for multiple districts across the country and is a frequent keynote speaker at state and national events. He’s also a 10-time author, 5-time podcast host, advisor to multiple ed tech companies, and National Faculty Emeritus for Future Ready Schools. Carl is also the co-founder of K12Leaders.com – A social media platform made by educators for educators. Check out his website https://CarlHooker.com and his blog at HookedOnInnovation.com

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Ep. 286 | The Fix Your School Culture Needs With Mandy Froehlich

Why are so many teachers burning out and what can actually fix it? Discover how healing spaces can transform toxic school cultures in this powerful episode with my good friend Mandy Froehlich.

This episode is sponsored by Teq. One of the biggest challenges in schools right now is capacity. Educators are asked to do more, often with new tools, and very little support. Teq helps by combining classroom technology like SMART Boards and STEM resources with professional learning that respects educators’ time and reality. It’s support that makes technology usable, not overwhelming.

Learn more at Teq.com.


In this powerful episode, I welcome back Mandy Froehlich—longtime friend of the podcast and a leading voice in educator mental health. Mandy introduces us to the concept of healing spaces. These are not just quiet rooms or meditation music, but deep cultural shifts that support teacher recovery, emotional well-being, and long-term sustainability in education.

We unpack the difference between burnout and demoralization, how leadership can unintentionally miss the mark, and what educators truly need to feel supported. If you feel like you’re trying to stay afloat or you’re an administrator ready to build a better culture, this episode is your blueprint for creating change.

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Ep. 34: Jennifer And The Winward Academy

In this episode, I chat with the founder of the Winward Academy, Dr. Jennifer Winward. We discuss how virtual tutoring has transformed how and when students learn. She’s a San Diego native as well and listen to hear what she has to say about her favorite cuisine from her worldwide travels, including flour vs. corn tortillas. Don’t forget to tell a friend, subscribe, and leave a review on iTunes, Google Play, or whatever podcast platform you get your podcast from. Buen Provecho!

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