Bill Selak Talks: Recent Episodes
Bill Selak
In this episode, I explore the famous story of Van Halen’s “no brown M&M’s” rider—and why it was never really about the candy. That idea got me thinking about what I call the inverse of a Brown M&M: the small, intentional experiences that communicate your organization’s values from day one. I share how building a custom onboarding app for new employees changed the way I think about technology, professional learning, and school culture, and I challenge you to identify your own “inverse of a Brown M&M” as you prepare to welcome new members of your community this fall.
In this episode, I react to Anthropic’s new Claude for Teachers announcement and explain why I’m excited—but also frustrated—as a school technology director. Great AI tools need great administrative tools, and there’s still work to do.
Then we zoom out to a bigger question: what should educators actually be building with generative AI? I share a few of my own projects, including a private podcast recording app, a new employee onboarding app, and some experiments with web apps and NFC automations. My challenge for this summer is simple: notice the friction points around you, then build something that makes them disappear.
In this episode, I share how I finally moved my websites off Bluehost after more than 20 years. What started as a simple side project with Cloudflare turned into a complete migration of my domains, DNS, and WordPress hosting—and it ended up being much less intimidating than I expected.
Along the way, I talk about why I chose Cloudflare and KnownHost, how ChatGPT helped me work through each step with confidence, and why having an ongoing AI conversation made tackling a project like this feel manageable instead of overwhelming.
If you’ve been putting off a website migration because it feels too risky or too technical, this episode is for you. I’ll walk through what I learned, the mistakes I avoided, and why now might be the perfect time to make the move yourself.
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In this episode, I talk about a new idea for identifying misplaced devices. We often find ourselves asking, “Whose device is this?”
Join me as I share my journey of creating a solution using ChatGPT and Codex to build a macOS app for device lookup. I discuss the process of developing the app, from brainstorming to coding, and how leveraging technology can streamline our inventory management.
The wild thing is that building this app took only a couple of hours! Codex 5.5 (very high reasoning) is incredible!
Whether you’re in tech management at a school or just curious about the intersection of education and technology, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice on how to solve recurring problems with innovative solutions.
In this episode, we dive into the world of automation and synchronization for school events, including concerts and musicals. Starting from the chaotic process of managing audio and lighting cues, I walk you through changing the workflow into a seamless experience using QLab, Light Key, and OSC commands.
Heard how we’re setting up QLab for audio playback, integrating lighting control through Light Key, and utilizing a Behringer X32 digital mixer to manage audio snippets effectively. The trick here is leveraging the power of OSC commands to create an automated workflow that enhances the production quality of school performances.
I just shipped an app — and this episode is the full story of how it came together.
NextUp Music started as a simple frustration: shared listening is messy. People fight over songs, and somehow your Apple Music Replay ends up reflecting everyone except you.
So I followed that problem and built a system.
In this episode, I walk through all 31 sprints that led to the app: from the first idea around turn-based listening, to profiles without accounts, to Replay Shield, to getting rejected by App Review and working back from there.
Along the way, I talk about what it actually looks like to build with tools like ChatGPT and Codex. Not as magic, but as collaborators that still require direction, taste, and ownership.
This isn’t just about writing code. It’s about holding a vision long enough to make something real.
NextUp Music is now live!
In this episode, the extraordinary Nick Provenzano joins the pod: an educator, maker, and AI enthusiast. We talk about the transformative power of generative AI in education, discussing how it can enhance creativity, support neurodiverse learners, and foster inclusivity in the classroom.
You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s November Tragedies the ninth and final song from Rising Decline’s 9-track album, newly remixed and reimagined with the power of AI.
This is part of my 18-episode series, where I break down each track from the album, share the process, and bring you along on a journey of nostalgia and innovation. Enjoy this song—free for a limited time. And by limited, I mean forever.
In this episode, we reach the conclusion of our retrospective on Rising Decline’s second album with the track, “November Tragedies.” I talk about the emotional weight behind the song, exploring themes of loss, heartbreak, and the cathartic power of creativity. We’ll discuss the importance of embracing the artistic process without the pressure of perfection.
Stick around for the full track in the next episode!
You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s Hey Mr. Corporate Plantation Owner Man, the eighth song from Rising Decline’s 9-track album, newly remixed and reimagined with the power of AI.
This is part of my 18-episode series, where I break down each track from the album, share the process, and bring you along on a journey of nostalgia and innovation. Enjoy this song—free for a limited time. And by limited, I mean forever.
In this episode, I jump into the lessons we can learn from Bad Astronaut’s latest stripped-down track, “Gray Suits,” and how these lessons can transform our approach to teaching. Inspired by the minimalist arrangement of vocals, cello, and keys, I explore the concept of restraint in the classroom.
We talk about the power of doing less—whether it’s decluttering the physical classroom space or reducing teacher talk time—to enhance student focus, creativity, and engagement. Drawing parallels between music production and education, I challenge the traditional notion of adding more and instead advocate for a more thoughtful, pared-down approach to teaching. Join me in rethinking how less can truly be more in our educational practices.
In this episode, I dive into how being a musician shapes the way I approach teaching and using tools like ChatGPT. Inspired by fellow educator-musician Brian Ravizza, I explore how the collaborative mindset of a musician can lead to better results when working with AI. Think of ChatGPT as a bandmate—someone to bounce ideas off, riff with, and co-create. Join me as I explore how this ‘bandmate’ approach can boost your creativity and productivity. Whether you’re into music, education, or tech, this episode will get you thinking differently about AI.
In this episode, I dive into the world of AI-generated music and its transformative potential in education. By leveraging AI tools, we can democratize music production, enabling every student to create professional-quality music with just a simple prompt.
I’ll explore how this technology allows us to focus on creativity, rather than the technicalities of music production, and discuss practical applications for the classroom. Join me as we envision a future where every student can be a music producer, regardless of their technical skills. Let’s make music creation accessible and exciting for all!
In this melodic episode, we riff on the revolutionary landscape of generative AI music, where the fusion of technology and creativity is hitting a new high note. I share my awe-struck experience diving into platforms like Suno and Udio, where I discovered the power of AI to compose music that resonates with our modern times. We’ll explore what generative AI music really means—from the technical beats per minute to the emotional chords that strike within us.
Listen in as I dissect the process of creating a rock song with a melodic pop-punk twist, all about how AI can amplify the creativity of teachers and students. You’ll get to hear the entire AI-generated song, a testament to the astonishing capabilities of these platforms. But don’t expect just a play-by-play of tech; we’ll also ponder the profound implications for music as we know it. Can AI really capture the soulful essence that connects us to our favorite tunes? Will it change the way we experience music, or will it simply become the new norm for background tracks and educational projects?
In this episode, buckle up for a drive-time rant that shifts gears into the future of creative writing in the age of generative AI. As we cruise through a landscape where technology is rapidly transforming the way we express ourselves, I challenge the misconception that AI tools like ChatGPT will render learning to write obsolete. Instead, I argue that the art of crafting words has never been more crucial.
Discover how being a prompt engineer—or let’s say, a creative writer with a knack for vivid descriptions—can turn anyone into a graphic designer, simply by typing text into an AI. I delve into the importance of adjectives, not for the sake of embellishment, but as the fuel for generating more precise and impactful AI responses, whether in text, image, or soon, video form.
Join me as I explore how the ability to articulate scenes and emotions with clarity and creativity is about to redefine storytelling and visual communication. This is not just a game-changer for writers but for educators and students alike, who now have the power to bring their words to life as never before.
In this episode, we riff on the evolution of music production and its striking parallels to educational technology. I’m thrilled to share the journey of creating a punk rock song from scratch with my old bandmate Brent, using nothing but our laptops and a dash of creativity. I reminisce about the days of recording in a professional studio, navigating the hefty hardware and the hefty costs, and compare it to the sleek, swift, and virtually cost-free process of modern digital music production.
As we break down the barriers between the past and present, you’ll get an exclusive listen to our latest collaboration, a song that embodies the DIY spirit and showcases the capabilities of today’s tech. We’ll explore how this process mirrors project-based learning, the importance of creative expression in education, and the profound implications of anytime, anywhere, any pace learning.
This episode is a testament to the power of iteration, the beauty of collaboration, and the transformative nature of technology in both music and education. It’s a reminder that we can bring our whole selves to our work and that sometimes, a creative interlude can enhance our focus and passion in every aspect of life.
So plug in your headphones, prepare to be inspired, and let’s dive into a discussion that harmonizes the chords of edtech and punk rock. Whether you’re an educator, a musician, or just someone who loves to see creativity in action, this episode of Bill Selak Talks is sure to strike a chord. ;)
In this episode of Bill Selak Talks, we take a twisty turn into the colorful world of Rubik’s cubes and the unexpected lessons they hold for educators and lifelong learners. Join me as I share my personal journey from curiosity to conquering the iconic puzzle, all thanks to the democratizing power of YouTube tutorials. Discover how a simple quest to solve a Rubik’s cube unravels profound insights into the value of repetition, the joy of learning, and the transformative potential of technology in education.
We’ll delve into the parallels between mastering the cube and fostering student-centered learning, emphasizing the importance of personalized learning paths and the wealth of resources available at our fingertips. From the initial intrigue sparked by a Voxer chat with friends to the triumphant five-minute solve, this episode is a testament to the magic of embracing challenges and the breakthroughs that can be achieved through technology.
Whether you’re an educator looking to inspire your students or a lifelong learner chasing that “someday” skill, this episode will motivate you to harness the tools of our digital age. So, if you’re ready to be encouraged, to take risks, and to find joy in the journey of learning, tune in to this episode of Bill Selak Talks, where we explore the endless possibilities that technology brings into our lives and classrooms.
In this poignant episode of Bill Selak Talks, we dive deep into the heart of education’s most profound dilemma: the balancing act between unwavering dedication and personal health. Inspired by a story of a teacher grading papers in his final hours, we explore the pressures educators face, the unrealistic expectations placed upon them, and the urgent need for boundaries. Learn practical tips for preparing lesson plans in advance, leveraging digital tools, and most importantly, giving ourselves permission to prioritize health over heroics. It’s a call to arms for educators to safeguard their wellbeing, ensuring they can continue to inspire without sacrificing themselves. Tune in, as we redefine dedication in education.
In this episode, I dive into the challenges and victories of maintaining creativity under pressure. Reflecting on my pre-kids photo-a-day project, I share how a simple challenge evolved into a profound journey of self-discovery, revealing the importance of pushing through creative blocks. From the mundane to the inspired, every photo tells a story of perseverance. I also explore modern creative solutions, like leveraging ChatGPT for idea generation, and the lessons learned from creating my annual Apple Distinguished Educator video under constraint. This episode uncovers the beauty of creating, even when inspiration seems out of reach, and emphasizes my innovative use of Apple hardware and software in education and personal projects.
In this episode of Bill Selak Talks, I muse over the quirky yet insightful ways my children interact with technology, revealing a generational bridge that I, as a Xennial, find myself balancing. I’m the go-to tech guide for both my parents and my kids, yet I’m also the playful target of my kids’ tech-savvy trolling antics.
Join me as I recount the evolution of photo-taking, from toddler selfies to a near-impossible mission to snap a picture with my wife without our kids’ interference. I’ll share the amusing ways they’ve commandeered my Netflix account, transforming my watchlist into a carousel of Swan Princess episodes and how they’ve turned car rides into a battleground with Siri and Kidz Bop. ;)
But it’s not all light-hearted mischief. This episode dives deeper into the implications of digital fluency, debunking the myth of “digital natives” and stressing the importance of explicit instruction in media literacy and digital citizenship. I’ll explore how despite their intuitive grasp of technology, kids still require guidance to harness these tools for academic success.
In this episode, I delve into a curious parallel that struck me recently: the stark contrast between the fluid timelines of construction projects and the rigid deadlines we adhere to in education.
As I reflect on a roundabout construction near my house, it becomes a metaphor for the challenges and flexibilities we encounter in teaching. I explore how the unpredictable nature of roadworks can shed light on our approach to educational deadlines, and why adapting might sometimes be the key. Join me as we navigate through these thoughts, uncovering insights about flexibility, planning, and the unexpected lessons life throws our way.
In this episode, I celebrate a milestone: the 100th episode of the podcast! We’ll dive into themes like Student Engagement and Learning, revisiting anecdotes from past episodes. From ed tech experimentation to personal teaching experiences, join me in reflecting on the journey we’ve taken and the future of education. This special episode is not just a look back, but a vision forward, packed with insights and inspirations from our podcast’s journey.
In this episode, I share a candid conversation with my third grader that reshaped my understanding of identity and creativity in the age of AI. As I delve into the world of app development with the help of ChatGPT, I confront my own self-identity and explore how emerging technologies are redefining what it means to be a creator.
Also, join me as I reflect on my 15-year podcasting journey and anticipate the excitement of the 100th episode. It’s a celebration of embracing new roles and recognizing the transformative power of AI in our lives.
Device-free time can be magical in a classroom (and at home). Lots of learning happens without devices. Lots. But… what does a school like when you can’t imagine it without devices? Without the ability for a student to write a song, publish a book, start a podcast, create an infographic, or create a video to […]
I am not impressive to my fourth grader, nor are most (all?) of the things I share with her. But… there are some extraordinary, dare I say magical, things that exist in the world that did not exist when we were all kids. And I’m okay with her not being impressed with things I share. […]
As my phone auto-played a song this morning, I was vividly reminded about the hour we spent in 2002 at Orange Whip Recording Studio with the band Bad Astronaut trying to find the one perfect lyric. That level of passion, detail, critical thinking, and perseverance is something we need to be doing way more in […]
As school leaders, how do we have a high impact on our school’s culture without adding another thing to teachers’ plates? Where’s that sweet spot where you get high impact with low effort? My answer to that is this year’s Talent Show act for employees at Hillbrook School. Hear how we made a music video, […]
I’ve learned so much this year in my leadership coaching with Aimee Giles. We’ve talked a lot about my values–imagine the islands from the movie Inside Out… that’s what we’ve created, and what we use to check decisions I make (and don’t make). In this episode, hear about two of those values (“I’m going to […]
What is good teaching? It’s complex. It’s not easily replicable. Let’s listen to an MxPx song, and hear why that song accomplishes its goal, but why my songs don’t.
Technology in education keeps getting better, faster, cheaper, and easier. In this episode, I talk about how the audio plugin Abbey Road One: Orchestral Foundations completely changes how you can write and record music (unless you happen to have access to an entire orchestra and can rent out a world-class studio). Click on that link […]
In your early 20s, you really don’t need to have everything figured out. I’m glad I didn’t. In this episode, I share how following what matters to you–particularly in your 20s, but also throughout your entire life–is one of the most important things you, your students, and your kids can do.
I am talking about my professional goals for the 2021-2022 year. Spoiler alert… here are the goals: Advance diversity, equity, and inclusion work. Upgrade and fine tune Hillbrook’s technology infrastructure Support our new Tech Support Specialist Next Steps with The Hub
You’ve probably heard about viewing the world through a Scientific Lens, but what about a Musician’s Lens? What might that look like, and why might more educators adopt this way of looking at teaching and learning?
Have you ever had a perfect slice of pizza? I’m not sure I have (yet), but my preferences have shifted over the years away from ridiculous pizzas like the Roadkill to a simple slice of…cheese. Oh, and I also talk about a plethora of tech subscriptions and managing technology budgets.
Being an educator during a global pandemic is incredibly challenging. Hear how this slice of deep dish pizza is getting me across the finish line. 🍕
How hard do people have to think to use something at your school? In this episode, hear about everything from light switches to websites, and how the goal of all systems at schools should be to make things as obvious as possible.
Being inclusive is important. We all know that. In this episode, we dive deeper into how to be mindful of including members of your community as your school is opening its campus during a pandemic.
Being uncomfortable as an educator… is that a good thing, or not? And how might we lean into the discomfort and use it as a way to learn how we need to grow as educators.