
Over more than a third of a century, Alfie Kohn has offered a multifaceted defense of progressive education as well as research-based critiques of rewards and punishments, grades, standardized testing, homework, competition, and other aspects of traditional schooling (and parenting).
If all his books and essays have one thing in common, however, it’s that they are extremely inconvenient to read while driving, exercising, or making dinner. Thus, when he learned (just a few weeks ago) that something called “podcasts” had been invented….well, you can see where this is going…
Each episode of Kohn’s Zone will offer 20-30 minutes of provocative reflections on a topic having to do with teaching and learning — or with human behavior more generally; occasional longer segments will feature conversations with leading experts in education. Watch this space for new episodes, which will appear as if by magic every two weeks or so. You can listen on any of the Big Tech podcast platforms or, better yet, here on this website. Links to all available episodes appear below, and if you’d like to be notified as soon as new ones are added, just click this button:
A note from Alfie Kohn:
I made two decisions when I decided to start this podcast. The first was not to accept ads. The second was to avoid putting certain episodes behind a paywall (or offering special content only to those who pay). But this means that I depend on the generosity of everyone who listens to help cover the production costs.
So: Can you afford a modest contribution — ideally on a regular basis, since a podcast, after all, is not a one-shot event? If so, I’d be grateful if you’d support the project with whatever amount seems fair to you. (Your generosity will also confirm the thesis of my book The Brighter Side of Human Nature.)
Oh, and if you enjoy the podcast, please tell other people about it. Thanks!
Please click the button below to donate.
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* Just one example of what we promise never to send you if you support the podcast.
Podcast Episodes
Skip the Sugarcoating
07/15/2025Little Ed Koches
07/01/2025The Back-to-School-Night Speech We’d Like to Hear (Ep. 1)
07/01/2025Subscribe and listen right here – or, if you prefer Big Tech, on:
PRODUCTION SUPPORT: Ultraviolet Audio ART: Abi Kohn