Episode 339: Merissa Sadler-Holder

 Episode 339: Merissa Sadler-Holder | Teaching with Machines  In this episode of My EdTech Life, Dr. Fonz Mendoza talks with Merissa Sadler-Holder, founder of Teaching with Machines. Merissa shares her journey from French teacher to AI consultant and shows how educators can embrace AI without losing their voice, creativity, or purpose. They discuss what human-centered AI really means in the classroom, how to build meaningful professional development, and ways to keep teaching focused on people instead of platforms. Merissa also breaks down her AI Coherence Cycle, explains why teachers should stop chasing every new tool, and highlights the power of authenticity in a world full of automation. This episode will help you rethink AI in education and remind you that the real value is you. Timestamps 00:00 — Intro & Sponsors  01:00 — Meet Merissa Sadler-Holder  03:00 — From French Teacher to Teaching with Machines  06:00 — The Aha Moment: Seeing AI’s Potential  10:00 — What Human-Centered AI Really Means  14:00 — Helping Students Find Their Authentic Voice  20:00 — The AI Coherence Cycle Explained  24:00 — Making PD Meaningful and Ongoing  28:00 — Avoiding the “Shiny Tool” Trap  33:00 — Ethics, Data Privacy & District Challenges  36:00 — Involving Parents and Communities  38:00 — Teaching is Messy—And That’s Good  41:00 — Preview: Speaking at EdTech Week NYC  44:00 — The Future of Teacher-Built Tools  49:00 — The Value is YOU  55:00 — Closing Thoughts + Stay Techie Connect with Merissa Website: teachingwithmachines.com Facebook Group Special Thanks to Our Sponsors Huge thanks to Book Creator, Eduaide.AI, and Yellowdig for supporting our mission to amplify educator voices and spark meaningful conversations about the future of learning. Stay Techie! ✌️ Authentic engagement, inclusion, and learning across the curriculum for ALL your students. Teachers love Book Creator. Yellowdig is transforming higher education by building online communities that drive engagement and collaboration. My EdTech Life is proud to partner with Yellowdig to amplify its mission. See how Yellowdig can revolutionize your campus—visit Yellowdig.co today! Support the show