Geogra3: Best 3 podcasts for Geography teachers

Before the Covid pandemic, I was an avid watcher of the news every morning while getting ready for work. I didn’t really consider the impact it had on my mind but I always felt it was a useful way to keep abreast of the current events.  However, during lockdown, I found the constant focus on negativity really started to get me down and I simply stopped watching the news.  Instead, I turned to podcasts as my way of controlling what I was listening to, but also to make sure I was being exposed to different perspectives.

In this blog, I’m going to share 3 podcasts that I think are ideal for Geography teachers but are perhaps the less obvious ones to explore.  Don’t get me wrong, there are some really great ones for developing pedagogy like The Geog Pod from the GA, or for building specific subject knowledge with The Geographical Podcast produced by the magazine of the same name.  But, I speak with teachers all day and sometimes the academics can sound a bit stuffy; I just want something a little more upbeat or punchy.    

So, here are my 3 suggestions (all links are to Apple Podcasts but I’m pretty sure they can be found on whichever platform you use):

• The Big Green Money Show

If you’re familiar with Dragon’s Den, you’ll know Deborah Meaden as the no-nonsense business woman who values green credentials.  In this podcast, she talks to some of the biggest business names out there and discusses their role in some of the major problems facing our planet.  For instance, the most recent episode discusses house building with Barratt Homes CEO and they discover that cement is responsible for a staggering 8% of global emissions.  There are episodes on the impact of heatwaves on farming businesses, whether fast fashion can be green and also the issue of packaging and palm oil.  I love the way Deborah and her co-host Felicity Hannah really grill their guests and don’t let them off the hook!

• New Scientist Weekly

Probably influenced a bit by hy husband with this one.  He used to subscribe to the actual magazine but we ended up having a stack of them piling up unopened as he just didn’t get around to reading them! Fortunately, that is what makes the podcast so great.  Each episode is just under half an hour so great for a commute and they can help you keep up with some the latest scientific developments and breakthroughs.  In recent episodes they discussed the Amazon passing its tipping point and a new modelling technique to potentially predict earthquakes. 

• TED Talks daily

As you’d expect from TED Talks they bring you thought-provoking ideas on every subject imaginable.  They offer different perspectives, ignite your curiosity and help you learn something new.  The episodes tend to vary in length, but are generally around 10-15 minutes.  If you’re a lover of reading, they did a great series called the Summer Book Club and featured talks and interviews with authors, including Elif Shafak, the author of The Island of Missing Trees.

And one bonus that I couldn’t leave off the list……

It’s a Continent

From the authors of the book of the same name Astrid Madimba and Chinny Ukata host this show with the aim of challenging the misconception that Africa is a country, whilst appreciating the identity of each nation.  They explore key historical moments as well as picking up on current, sometimes controversial news items.  I like the way they make complex issues more accessible and provide a platform for voices that are often not heard.  

I’d love to know if you have any recommendations of Podcasts you’re currently enjoying  - simply pop them in the comments below.

And remember, keep being curious, who knows where it will take you!

I love nothing more than supporting Geography teachers as we are a pretty awesome bunch.  

So here are five ways that I might be able to help you….

• The FREE question and answer booklet - 15+ Q and A worksheets linked to documentaries 
• The GTB Vault - Classroom-ready powerpoints and worksheets so you never need to feel guilty about showing a video in class again! New pick up and go lesson resources added every month.
• The Geography Teacher Box bookstore - boost your subject knowledge while supporting local independent bookshops
• Tote-ally Geography - A newly created store with tote bags designed specifically for geography teachers.
• Connect with other like-minded Geography teachers and share resources (suitable for teachers of students aged 11-18) - The GTB Facebook Group