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Bill Selak

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Hillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastAI in Action: Transforming Teaching and Learning at HillbrookEpisode Notes - Join host Bill Selak and kindergarten teacher Dana Ford as they kick off Season 9 of the Hillbrook School Podcast! This episode dives into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and education, exploring how AI can enhance teaching practices and empower students. Bill and Dana discuss their year-long professional development initiative aimed at helping teachers effectively utilize AI tools. They reflect on the positive feedback received from faculty and share their excitement about the potential of AI to support hyper-personalized learning experiences. The conversation also touches on the importance of maintaining the human...
2025-10-2319 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksSupercharging Creativity: AI in Education, and Empowering Learners 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.
2025-10-2250 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: November Tragedies [Part 18 of 18] 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.
2025-10-1500 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: November Tragedies [Part 17 of 18] 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!
2025-10-1519 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Hey Mr. Corporation Plantation Owner Man [Part 16 of 18] 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.
2025-08-3001 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Hey Mr. Corporate Plantation Owner Man [Part 15 of 18] In this episode, we’ll talk about how collaboration fuels creativity in both music and education. The idea is simple: connect with inspiring people and share ideas that can lead to exciting new projects.Stick around for the full track in the next episode!
2025-08-3013 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: What Was Who [Part 14 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s What Was Who, the seventh 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.
2025-08-1500 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Intentional Playfulness, and What Was Who [Part 13 of 18] In this episode, I talk about the importance of playfulness in education, but not just being silly because it’s fun or random… being intentionally playful as an instructional strategy. It’s good times, and so is the song I talk about. Stick around for the full track in the next episode!
2025-08-1515 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastSupercharging Creativity: How Generative AI Empowers Educators and StudentsEpisode Notes - Dive into the transformative world of generative AI in education! In our latest episode, we chat with Nick Provenzano about how AI can enhance creativity, support neurodiverse learners, and empower students to take control of their learning. Discover practical applications, insights on project-based learning, and much more. Don't miss out on this opportunity to reshape your teaching approach—listen now!Read transcript
2025-04-2450 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastS8E2 - The Art of Connection: How Augmented Reality Transforms Learning SpacesEpisode Notes - In this episode, host Bill Selak is joined by Jay Van Buren, co-founder of the Membit augmented reality app and director of the Hub at Hillbrook. Together, they delve into the transformative power of augmented reality (AR) in education, sharing insights on how it enhances student learning and engagement. Bill recounts an exciting opportunity for Hillbrook as they prepare to host a tour from Taiwan's Ministry of Education. He emphasizes the importance of showcasing student projects in meaningful contexts rather than through traditional presentations. Jay explains how AR allows visitors to experience...
2025-04-1619 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: Happy Face [Part 12 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s Happy Face, the sixth 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.
2025-04-1600 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Happy Face [Part 12 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s Happy Face, the sixth 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.
2025-04-1600 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: Happy Face and the Mask We Wear [Part 11 of 18] In this episode, we’re diving into track five of Rising Decline’s second album, Camden Road. This episode unpacks the complexities of authenticity in education through the song “Happy Face.” I break down the bass lines and share how the joy of performing led me to reflect on the emotional masks we wear—especially in education. From the pressure to stay upbeat to the reality of teaching during fall 2020, I talk about learning to show up more honestly. This one’s all about balancing positivity with being real, and how embr...
2025-04-1620 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Happy Face and the Mask We Wear [Part 11 of 18] In this episode, we’re diving into track five of Rising Decline’s second album, Camden Road. This episode unpacks the complexities of authenticity in education through the song “Happy Face.” I break down the bass lines and share how the joy of performing led me to reflect on the emotional masks we wear—especially in education. From the pressure to stay upbeat to the reality of teaching during fall 2020, I talk about learning to show up more honestly. This one’s all about balancing positivity with being real, and how embracing your full self ca...
2025-04-1620 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastAugmented Journeys: Exploring Identity Through AR at HillbrookEpisode Notes - In the new season of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak engages with Jay Van Buren, an innovative educator in the Hub at Hillbrook, as they explore the transformative potential of augmented reality (AR) in education. Jay shares his passion for integrating AR into the learning experience, highlighting how it differs from virtual reality by enhancing our interaction with the real world rather than isolating us from it. The conversation dives into the practical applications of AR, including Jay's development of the "Selflinder" project, where fifth graders create immersive cylinders that reflect their...
2025-03-0426 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: I Got Fired From Moondoggies [Part 10 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s I Got Fired From Moondoggies, the fifth 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. Lyrics:Dear sirPlease don’t be a...
2025-01-2300 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: I Got Fired From Moondoggies [Part 10 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s I Got Fired From Moondoggies, the fifth 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. Lyrics:Dear sirPlease don’t be a...
2025-01-2300 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: I Got Fired From Moondoggies… From Surf Shop to Fire Engine [Part 9 of 18] In this episode, we’re diving into track five of Rising Decline’s second album, Camden Road. This episode unpacks the hilarious (and insightful) story behind “I Got Fired from Moondoggies,” written by our singer Brent after—well—you guessed it, getting fired from a surf shop. We’ll talk about the bridge (both the musical kind and the life lesson kind), creating lyrics on the fly in the studio, and how this story connects to the bigger idea of redefining success in education. Spoiler alert: sometimes you’re just not cut out for retail, and that’s okay. Stick arou...
2025-01-2313 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: I Got Fired From Moondoggies… From Surf Shop to Fire Engine [Part 9 of 18] In this episode, we’re diving into track five of Rising Decline’s second album, Camden Road. This episode unpacks the hilarious (and insightful) story behind “I Got Fired from Moondoggies,” written by our singer Brent after—well—you guessed it, getting fired from a surf shop. We’ll talk about the bridge (both the musical kind and the life lesson kind), creating lyrics on the fly in the studio, and how this story connects to the bigger idea of redefining success in education. Spoiler alert: sometimes you’re just not cut out for retail, and that’s okay. Stick arou...
2025-01-2313 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: Lemonade [Part 8 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s Lemonade, the fourty 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.Lyrics: Lemonade Dust the coffee table Straighten up the she...
2024-12-2000 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Lemonade [Part 8 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s Lemonade, the fourty 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.Lyrics: Lemonade Dust the coffee table Straighten up the she...
2024-12-2000 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: Lemonade and Why We Make Art [Part 7 of 18] In this episode, I talk about the creation and meaning behind “Lemonade,” the fourth track from Rising Decline’s second album, Camden Road. I reflect on the heaviness of life and how art, particularly music, serves as a refuge and a means of processing emotions.I discuss the importance of creating art for the sake of expression, not perfection or monetization. Join me as I explore the role of creativity in navigating life’s challenges and the inherent value of making art simply because we are human. If you haven’t yet, listen to the previous t...
2024-12-2013 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Lemonade and Why We Make Art [Part 7 of 18] In this episode, I talk about the creation and meaning behind “Lemonade,” the fourth track from Rising Decline’s second album, Camden Road. I reflect on the heaviness of life and how art, particularly music, serves as a refuge and a means of processing emotions.I discuss the importance of creating art for the sake of expression, not perfection or monetization. Join me as I explore the role of creativity in navigating life’s challenges and the inherent value of making art simply because we are human. If you haven’t yet, listen to the previous t...
2024-12-2013 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: Carousel [Part 6 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s Carousel, the second 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.
2024-11-1600 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Carousel [Part 6 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s Carousel, the second 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.
2024-11-1600 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: Carousel and Collaborative Magic [Part 5 of 18] In this episode, I dive into the collaborative magic of music and how it transforms into lessons for the classroom. Reflecting on my journey with my punk rock band, Rising Decline, and the newly remixed track “Carousel,” I explore how being present and relying on others—whether in a band or a classroom—creates something greater than the sum of its parts. Using cutting-edge tools like Logic Pro’s stem splitter, I also share how technology enhances creativity for musicians and educators alike. Join me as I weave together stories of innovation, teamwork, and the joy of making mus...
2024-11-1620 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Carousel and Collaborative Magic [Part 5 of 18] In this episode, I dive into the collaborative magic of music and how it transforms into lessons for the classroom. Reflecting on my journey with my punk rock band, Rising Decline, and the newly remixed track “Carousel,” I explore how being present and relying on others—whether in a band or a classroom—creates something greater than the sum of its parts. Using cutting-edge tools like Logic Pro’s stem splitter, I also share how technology enhances creativity for musicians and educators alike. Join me as I weave together stories of innovation, teamwork, and the joy of making mus...
2024-11-1620 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: Picture Framed Candle [Part 4 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s Picture Framed Candle, the second 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.
2024-10-2600 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Picture Framed Candle [Part 4 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s Picture Framed Candle, the second 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.
2024-10-2600 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: Picture Framed Candle and Being Lost in Translation [Part 3 of 18] In this episode, join me as we dive into the second track of Rising Decline’s unreleased album, Camden Road. Discover the magic of AI in music production as I remix “Picture Framed Candle” using Logic Pro’s stem splitter. This innovative tool allows me to breathe new life into our old punk rock tracks by separating and enhancing individual elements like vocals and guitars. But that’s not all—this episode also explores the intersection of music and educational technology. I share insights on using Wordly, a real-time AI translator, and how it can revolutioniz...
2024-10-2529 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Picture Framed Candle and Being Lost in Translation [Part 3 of 18] In this episode, join me as we dive into the second track of Rising Decline’s unreleased album, Camden Road. Discover the magic of AI in music production as I remix “Picture Framed Candle” using Logic Pro’s stem splitter. This innovative tool allows me to breathe new life into our old punk rock tracks by separating and enhancing individual elements like vocals and guitars. But that’s not all—this episode also explores the intersection of music and educational technology. I share insights on using Wordly, a real-time AI translator, and how it can revolutioniz...
2024-10-2529 minLeading Out The Woods
Leading Out The WoodsMedia Literacy in the ClassroomEpisode #112 is up!  Check it out!!!Media Literacy in the ClassroomSpecial Guest Bill Selak, Director of Technology and NAMLE Board Member, joins Dr. Woods to discuss the importance of media literacy in the classroom. In this episode, they explore practical strategies for teaching students to critically evaluate media sources and become responsible digital citizens.Connect with Bill via X: @billselak, Instagram: BillSelak or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billselak
2024-10-1838 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: Camden Road [Part 2 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s Camden Road, the first 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.
2024-10-1600 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: Camden Road [Part 2 of 18] You’ve heard the story behind the music, now it’s time to listen to the track itself. Here’s Camden Road, the first 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.
2024-10-1600 minBill Selak
Bill SelakRising Decline Revisited: A 20-Year Retrospective with AI [Part 1 of 18] In this episode, I’m thrilled to share how AI is helping me breathe new life into my band’s old tracks. Using the new Stem Splitter tool in Logic Pro, I’m diving back into tracks from my 2003 album with Rising Decline and remixing to create fresh mixes with modern sound. Imagine taking an old MP3, clicking a button, and seeing separate tracks for vocals, drums, bass, and guitar appear like magic. With the power of AI, it’s now possible to tweak individual elements, apply effects, and polish these songs in ways I could never have ima...
2024-10-1517 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksRising Decline Revisited: A 20-Year Retrospective with AI [Part 1 of 18] In this episode, I’m thrilled to share how AI is helping me breathe new life into my band’s old tracks. Using the new Stem Splitter tool in Logic Pro, I’m diving back into tracks from my 2003 album with Rising Decline and remixing to create fresh mixes with modern sound. Imagine taking an old MP3, clicking a button, and seeing separate tracks for vocals, drums, bass, and guitar appear like magic. With the power of AI, it’s now possible to tweak individual elements, apply effects, and polish these songs in ways I could never have ima...
2024-10-1517 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksGround Control to Creativity: You Are Go for Restraint and Exploration 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 t...
2024-09-2512 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksJohnny Keys and Me: A Musical Approach to AI in Education 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.
2024-09-1013 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksDemocratizing Music Production with AI: A New Era for Educators 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!
2024-05-2120 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastBeyond Right Answers: The Educational Power of Wrong TurnsEpisode Notes - Bill Selak engages in a conversation with Clara, the Director of the Hub at Hillbrook. They challenge the stigma surrounding failure in education by advocating for "failing forward" and embracing the learning opportunities that come from making mistakes. Clara shares her experiences in the Hub, where hands-on projects often lead to unexpected lessons and a deeper understanding of practical applications like woodworking and 3D printing. Bill and Clara also discuss the transformative power of professional development (PD) for teachers, highlighting innovative sessions that range from building miniature cars to culinary challenges and...
2024-05-1030 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksFrom Jingles to Algorithms: AI’s Melodic Disruption 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...
2024-04-1927 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastCrafting the Future: Writing as the Key to AI MasteryEpisode Notes - In this thought-provoking episode of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak delves deep into the evolving intersection of AI, education, and the creative arts. As we navigate the burgeoning landscape of artificial intelligence, Bill challenges the narrative surrounding AI in schools, focusing on the burgeoning role of creative writing in an AI-driven future. He introduces the concept of prompt engineering as an emerging career path, underscoring the importance of preparing students for jobs that are just beginning to take shape. Bill also breaks down the exciting capabilities of Sora, the latest...
2024-04-0614 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksThe Renaissance of Creative Writing with AI 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...
2024-03-1411 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksPunk Rock Pedagogy: Lessons in Creativity from the Recording Studio to the Classroom 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 g...
2024-03-0423 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksBill Selak Talks About Solving Life’s Puzzles: From Rubik’s Cubes to Educational Breakthroughs 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 a...
2024-02-2612 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksBalancing Dedication and Health as an Educator 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...
2024-02-1612 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksCreativity on Empty: Finding Your Spark in the Creative Drought 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...
2024-02-0216 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksFrom Selfies to Siri: the Role of Parents and Educators in Tech Literacy 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...
2024-01-3115 minHeads Down, Two Thumbs Up
Heads Down, Two Thumbs UpEpisode 12: School of Rock In this episode of Heads Down Two Thumbs Up, Bill and Carla discuss School of Rock. This iconic movie features Jack Black as a slacker musician who, in a moment of desperation, lies to get a substitute teaching gig at a pretentious elementary school. Joan Cusack plays the uptight principal who only lightens up when she hears Stevie Nicks. Does this movie stand the test of time? Does it accurately portray life in an elementary school classroom? Is Jack Black the single best or worst substitute teacher ever? Listen and find out!
2024-01-1851 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastMelody and Machine: AI's Musical ImpactEpisode Notes - In this melodic episode of the Hillbrook School Podcast, host Bill Selak sits down with the multifaceted Derek Primo Silverman, music and "other things" maestro at Hillbrook. The conversation strikes a harmonious blend of music, technology, and education as they delve into the intricacies of the Winter Concert and the role AI played in refining the show choir's performance. Derek shares the behind-the-scenes magic of arranging popular songs, the unexpected tempo tweaks, and the innovative use of AI-driven audio manipulation software from iZotope to polish the choir's recordings. The duo also explores...
2024-01-1728 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastArt, Activism, and the New Renaissance: A Hillbrook StoryEpisode Notes - Join host Bill Selak, Director of Technology at Hillbrook School, for an engaging and lively discussion with two special guests, both named Vanessa. In this episode, Vanessa Fernandez, Program and Research Lead for the Scott Center, and VanNessa Hulme Silberman, Performing Arts Director at Hillbrook, dive into the world of art and activism. They explore how art serves as a powerful tool for teaching and understanding complex subjects like early 20th-century literature, and how it reflects cultural shifts and technological advancements. The conversation also touches on the public art renaissance in San Jose and...
2023-12-1631 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksBill Selak Talks About a Detour Ahead: Navigating Construction and Classroom Deadlines 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...
2023-12-1113 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastBringing Student Dreams to LifeEpisode Notes - In this episode of the Hillbrook School podcast, host Bill Selak engages in a one-on-one conversation with Martin, the Hub Engineer at Hillbrook. Martin shares his unique journey from aspiring designer to industrial design graduate, highlighting his passion for helping students bring their creative dreams to life. He discusses the challenges and rewards of teaching, emphasizing the importance of failure as a learning tool. Martin also delves into his personal venture of crafting wallets, blending aesthetics with functionality, and the lessons learned from running a business. The episode explores the Hillbrook Engineering Learning program...
2023-12-1139 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksBill Selak Talks About 100 Episodes! A Century Retrospective. 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.
2023-12-0239 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastCreative Visions: Art Education as a Career CatalystEpisode Notes - In this episode, art teachers Laura and Susie join host Bill Selak to discuss how visual arts education enhances creativity and imagination in ways that benefit every profession. From amusing elementary student dream jobs like "duck helper" to thought-provoking insights about art's impact on happiness and fulfillment, this episode how skills like keen observation, perseverance, and design thinking lend themselves to careers like detective, architect, and engineer. Laura and Susie share anecdotes about teaching techniques like blind contour drawing to train sight and hand-eye coordination. Their passion for the arts shines through as they...
2023-12-0128 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksNavigating New Realms: AI’s Role in Shaping Educator Identities 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 li...
2023-11-2000 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksThe Educator’s Guide to AI-Powered App Development In this episode, I take you through an exciting journey into the world of AI-assisted app development. As an educator constantly exploring the possibilities within technology, I delve into the process of creating a podcasting app for iOS. This isn’t just about coding; it’s about breaking barriers and embracing AI to make significant strides in educational technology. I discuss the challenges, triumphs, and the immense learning curve involved in developing an app with the help of ChatGPT. From conceptualizing app features to navigating the intricacies of Xcode and Swift, this episode is a testament to the...
2023-11-1300 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksPunk Rock and Pedagogy: Lessons in Authenticity from Blink 182 In this episode, I explore how Blink 182’s unwavering authenticity paved their path to stardom and how embracing our own unique selves can make us not just better teachers, but better people. From my college days recording music to my current role as Tech Director at Hillbrook, this episode is all about the power of being the “me-est” me as an educator and allowing students the space to be the “they-est” thems. Tune in for a blend of nostalgia, music, and educational philosophy.
2023-11-0500 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastHarmonizing Curriculum: The Interdisciplinary Power of MusicEpisode Notes - Explore how music education is not just an isolated subject but can be integrated into other areas of the curriculum. Hear about real-world examples from Hillbrook where music has been used to enhance learning in subjects like math, history, and even science. Jamie unveils her passion for the Orff approach, where young musicians improvise and find their groove. Derek rocks music class, leading a 20-piece middle school rock band, with so much student interest that students are doubling up on instruments! VanNessa conducts a choral revolution, growing enrollment from just four to...
2023-10-2327 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksMe, Upgraded: Maximize Strengths and Overcoming Weaknesses with ChatGPT In this episode, I discuss how ChatGPT has seamlessly integrated into my daily workflow—amplifying my strengths and compensating for my weaknesses. From rapidly turning jumbled thoughts into polished emails to accelerating the journey from a vague idea to a final draft, this tool has elevated my creativity and productivity to new heights. I share my firsthand experiences, including coding an iOS app and Discord bot, to demonstrate how you can do the same. Tune in to explore how to wield artificial intelligence as a multipurpose tool that enhances your unique capabilities. Don’t just use AI; let...
2023-10-2019 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastDesigning the Future: The 12 C's of Student-Centered LearningEpisode Notes - In this episode, Director of Technology Bill Selak sits with Hub Director Clara Ngo to discuss the evolving landscape of education and the importance of design and engineering. They explore how the "Four C's" of 21st-century learning—Communication, Collaboration, Critical thinking, and Creativity—have been expanded by students to include values like curiosity and choice. The conversation also delves into the role of technology, from Canva to Cricut, in fostering creativity and problem-solving skills. Both Selak and Ngo emphasize the value of failure as a learning opportunity, underscoring the need for adaptability in a rapi...
2023-10-1331 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksPhish & Chips: Serving Up Security Questions at This Year’s Admin Meetings In this episode, I talk about a topic that often flies under the radar: phishing in schools. But wait, this isn’t your typical cybersecurity chat. We delve into how seemingly innocent ‘check-in’ questions during admin meetings might just be the backdoor into compromising your security. Join me for a journey that’s part storytelling, part silly idea, and a whole lot of ‘Did we just do that?’ moments.
2023-10-1107 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastBeyond the Canvas- Hillbrook's Interdisciplinary Dive into Art and DesignEpisode Notes - The episode delves into the nature of creativity at Hillbrook, discussing the distinctions between performing arts, visual arts, design, and making. The educators emphasize the importance of mistakes in the learning process, the role of empathy, and the significance of audience-centric creation. The conversation underscores the broader implications of these creative endeavors, highlighting their impact on interpersonal interactions and personal growth.
2023-09-2714 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksBill Selak Talks Bridging Classroom Tech and the Creative Spark of Jimmy Eat World In this episode, I find myself reflecting on a casual chat with a parent about past tours of his band opening for Jimmy Eat World and how that leads me to thinking about guitar pedals and their influence on my sound as a guitarist. That naturally leads me into a conversation about the power of iPads as creation devices. How can these tools unlock creativity in our students? How do we shape an environment that fuels their imaginative spirit? Join me as I ponder the bridge between music, tech, and classroom creativity. And hey, while we’re at...
2023-09-0807 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksBill Selak Talks with Scott Bedley About Empowering Educators with Environmental Literacy In this episode, I sit down with Scott Bedley, the co-founder of Global School Play Day and all-around EduAwesome human. We explored the necessity and benefits of incorporating environmental education in today’s classrooms. Scott shares about the launch of GreenGuardians.com, a novel platform aimed at making environmental literacy fun, engaging, and accessible. Scott highlights how the resources are designed to be self-contained, coming with slides and multimedia content to limit the need for additional internet research. If you are one of the first ten listeners to use the code RNFD-D4WD-JF0C9...
2023-06-3031 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksBill Selak Talks About an Information-Rich Environment and Kids These Days In this episode, I share thoughts on Operation Ivy, music lyrics, and even pizza! We’re exploring the monumental shift that’s taken place right under our noses: We’ve moved from an information-poor to an information-rich world. And yet, our schools are staying mostly the same. In this episode, I challenge the status quo, call for a rethink of our education system, and discuss how we can better equip our children to thrive in the age of the internet and AI.
2023-06-2316 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksThe Magic of Co-Creation: Unlocking Potential in Education In this episode, I explore the concept of co-creation and its transformative power. As a former professional musician, I’ve experienced the magic of creating live music and how it connects to the educational world. Tune in to hear me discuss the importance of creating opportunities for learners (students and adults alike) to collaborate in a truly interconnected way, leading to outcomes that are greater than the sum of their parts. Let’s “note” the difference and unlock the potential of co-creation in education!
2023-04-2809 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksCreating AI Images with Students Using Midjourney and ChatGPT In this episode, I talk about working with two classes of 5th graders to create AI-generated images on Midjourney. We used ChatGPT to create a prompt, Midjourney to create and fine tune an image, and upscaled the images with imglarger.com. With adults, conversation quickly turns to “Is this art?” Hear how it’s a different conversation with 5th graders and how it’s more about teamwork in art, learning, co-creation, and technology.
2023-04-2418 minBill Selak Talks
Bill Selak TalksThe Importance of Rituals in Classrooms and Schools (Lessons I Learned During an Apple Fitness+ Workout) Apple Fitness+ recently added kickboxing to their workouts. Back in the day, I took Shotokan Karate lessons, so I thought this would be an easy transition. Wow… I learned a lot about the power of routines. And of course, I applied it to schools and classrooms.
2023-04-1714 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastAI in EducationEpisode Notes - We all know that (discussions of) artificial intelligence is taking over the world... one robot at a time. At Hillbrook, we've always pushed what's possible with the latest technologies, especially when it comes to our students. So, let’s get together and talk about AI in the classroom. This podcast description was written by ChatGPT. Collection of resources on AI in Education available at https://wakelet.com/wake/AHAql39IDVSmjynlhGGKM
2023-02-211h 01Hillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastThe Artist's LensEpisode Notes - Join Director of Technology Bill Selak as hit talks with performing arts teacher VanNessa Hulme Silbermann and ceramic arts teacher Laura Hale about the Artist's Lens. Analogous to a scientific lens/bias, the artist's lens leverages lessons from the arts like co-creation and interpersonal skills to other disciplines.
2023-01-3018 minTeaching Tales w/ Brent Coley
Teaching Tales w/ Brent ColeyE106: Bill Selak & Finding Your Creative Sweet SpotBill is the Director of Technology at Hillbrook School in Northern California. Passionate about helping educators harness the ever-changing face of technology to better individualize teaching and learning, he shares resources at billselak.com and through his Bill Selak Talks podcast. In this episode, Bill shares the incredibly important reminder that it’s not just okay for us to take a break to engage in a creative outlet, it’s essential. It’s not a waste of time. It’s an investment of time.
2023-01-2422 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastLet the Drama Begin at HillbrookEpisode Notes- Performing Arts Teacher VanNessa Hulme Silbermann and Art Teacher Susie Heeter sit down with Bill Selak to talk about the inaugural 4th grade drama performance. Hear about the collaborative process of creating costumes and masks, and how our fourth graders brought down the house in their plays.
2022-12-1612 minHeads Down, Two Thumbs Up
Heads Down, Two Thumbs UpEpisode 11: Almost Famous In this episode of Heads Down Two Thumbs Up, Bill and Carla discuss Almost Famous. Written and directed by Cameron Crowe, this semi-autobiographical story is NOT set in a school, but it is about learning. When high school student William Miller gets the chance to follow his passion of music journalism and is invited to tour with a up and coming band, Stillwater, he takes it, trading classroom learning for a real-life adventure that promises a cover story for Rolling Stone Magazine. Bill and Carla explore what makes for good learning and whether or not school actually...
2022-08-0344 minHeads Down, Two Thumbs Up
Heads Down, Two Thumbs UpEpisode 10: Soundtracks • episode transcript (click to read) In this special edition episode, we focus exclusively on the music of movies. The soundtrack. The score. We love this quote from Underground Press:  As music can tell the story and explain the plot, filmmakers use it very carefully to build the tone and mood of a film. Also, music is used to expose feelings of characters, actions, tensions, and even horror. Music can create a convincing atmosphere for the situation and can turn a good film into a great one. – Ronald Ross After this ep...
2022-04-2049 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastHow might we make conferences, schools, and classrooms more accessible through technology?Episode Notes Enable learning for all with simple choices. Learn how to make learning more accessible through audio, visuals, and built-in settings on mobile devices. Understand how both good pedagogy and technical skills can contribute to a more inclusive environment at conferences, in classrooms, and in schools. Understand how to be more inclusive in three simple areas: audio/sound, visual/presentations, and software (built-in OS settings). Evidence of success will be a better awareness of blind spots around accessibility tools; comments like, “Wow, that never occurred to me, and it’s so simple to make that...
2022-03-2215 minHeads Down, Two Thumbs Up
Heads Down, Two Thumbs UpEpisode 9: Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure Travel back to 1988 with Bill and . . . Carla, as we have a MOST excellent adventure together taking about another favorite movie that talks about school. When two disengaged high school students, Theodore Logan and William S. Preston, Esquire, are faced a failing grade in history class, they have just one option left – to do one kick-ass final project. But they know nothing about history. Just when they are about to give up hope and wallowing in despair at the Circle K, they are visited by a surprise guest from the future. And with the help of a handy ph...
2022-01-2954 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastFun with Math!Episode Notes Amy Hand joins the pod as we discuss ways to have fun and engaging conversations with your kids around math. Amy recounts our recent Family Math Fair parent ed event, and shares great resources. Games mentioned (these make great gifts!): 24 Set Rush hour Chocolate fix
2021-11-1720 minHeads Down, Two Thumbs Up
Heads Down, Two Thumbs UpEpisode 08: The Karate Kid B-Side with Jesse Lubinsky You watched the movie, you listened to the podcast, and now it’s time to listen to the B-Side from The Karate Kid. Bill sits down with Jesse Lubinsky for an extended interview. If you’re completely lost, go back and listen to full episode of The Karate Kid, and then listen to this. It’ll make more sense.
2021-11-1322 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastThe DEI LensEpisode Notes In this episode, Bill Selak sits down with Gulliver LaValle to discuss Hillbrook School's DEI Lens--a tool used for employees and board members for making decisions and having discussions in a more inclusive way.
2021-11-0523 minHeads Down, Two Thumbs Up
Heads Down, Two Thumbs UpEpisode 8: The Karate Kid This month, Bill and Carla talk Karate Kid, the iconic 1984 movie staring Ralph Macchio as the young Karate student of Mr. Miyagi played by Pat Morita.  We discuss the relationship between master teacher and student apprentice, the Dojo as school for life, bad fashion, and the many filming locations of the film.  If you are a fan of the fan-fiction series, Cobra Kai, we have you covered, and we talk more about William Zabka and Elizabeth Shue.  Bill also interviews his friend, Jesse Lubinsky, who is a major fan of the movie who tells us his story of...
2021-10-3057 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastTalking DEI with Eddie Moore, JrShow Notes https://www.whiteprivilegeconference.com/ https://www.eddiemoorejr.com/ 21 Day Challenge at https://www.eddiemoorejr.com/21daychallenge @eddieknowsmoore on Twitter: https://twitter.com/eddieknowsmoore https://www.dyingofwhiteness.com/
2021-10-0524 minHeads Down, Two Thumbs Up
Heads Down, Two Thumbs UpEpisode 7: Stand and Deliver It’s our first episode of the 2021-22 season.  We’re talking about Stand and Deliver, the true story of high school teacher Jaime Escalante who finds himself teaching math in East LA. He finds a group of students who find his less-than conventional teaching methods to be inspiring and he takes them all the was to AP Calculus. When they all successfully pass the AP Exam, their scores are challenged because of their ethnic surnames and they are forced to retake the exam with only one day to prepare.  No spoiler here. but they did make a movi...
2021-09-0339 minHeads Down, Two Thumbs Up
Heads Down, Two Thumbs UpEpisode 06: Election We’re back!  After our pandemic hiatus, it felt great to be back in the studio to record Episode Six. Coming off of one of the craziest elections seasons in American history, we made the obvious choice.  Election was released in 1999 and starred Matthew Broderick as Jim McAllister, a high school civics teacher, and Reese Witherspoon as Tracy Flick, an overachieving student running unopposed for school president.  If only Mr. McAllister hadn’t despised Tracy Flick so much, things might have turned out differently. But instead we experience a high school election season like none other.
2020-12-0738 minHillbrook School Podcast
Hillbrook School PodcastGender equity in Tech and Finance? Men and boys have a role to play!Edis Mesic (’20) interviews lower school parent Chris Pruett in this episode. Edis was part of the Women in Finance and Technology Teaching Youth (WIFTTY) Reach Beyond Block.
2020-05-2030 minHeads Down, Two Thumbs Up
Heads Down, Two Thumbs UpEpisode 05: Rushmore B-Side with Greg Bamford You watched the movie, you listened to the podcast, and now it’s time to listen to the B-Side from Rushmore. Carla sits down with Greg Bamford for an extended interview. If you’re completely lost, go back and listen to full episode of Rushmore, and then listen to this. It’ll make more sense.
2020-05-2015 min