Best in Class delves deeper into the classroom applications that make a difference to learners and teachers daily. We explore why that app has taken centre stage, speak to the creators about their "Why", and champion the use of technology to improve workflow, reduce workload and explore new, creative pedagogy in the classroom.
This episode explores the integration of Esports into education, discussing its potential to enhance learning outcomes, develop essential soft skills, and provide career pathways for students.
There are a lot of misconceptions about eSports, but its cultural significance and the importance of inclusivity and teamwork means it has potential to broaden your curriculum offering.
We all advocate establishing formal qualifications in ESports to help bridge skills gaps in the industry and prepare students for future careers. We also discuss the need for schools to recognise and validate the skills students gain through ESports participation, and the potential for cross-curricular learning opportunities.
Join us as we clear away some of the noise and focus on what is real about Esports in education.
5 Dec 2025
Screens and Scales: Finding Balance in EdTech
EdTech, Equity, and the Future of Digital Skills
Technology is a permanent part of our lives, but how do we integrate it into education without losing the human connection? Join host Michael Conlon with Anna Millar as they navigate the complex landscape of Educational Technology.
This episode moves beyond the buzzwords to discuss the real-world impact of digital tools on student outcomes and mental health. Michael and Anna unpack the societal pressures parents and teachers face regarding screen time and argue for a more nuanced approach: one that prioritises equity, accessibility, and purposeful engagement.
Key topics covered:
Finding Balance: Navigating the tension between traditional learning and digital innovation.
Accessibility: How tech acts as a bridge for diverse learners and those with barriers to learning.
Teacher Empowerment: Why investing in educators is more important than investing in hardware.
Future Readiness: Preparing students for a tech-driven world through active creation.
If you are an educator, parent, or advocate for inclusive learning, this conversation offers the roadmap you need to advocate for a balanced, tech-enabled future.
21 Nov 2025
Hacking Humans: Cybersecurity lessons for the modern educator.
What if the people trying to hack you are running a companywith HR, business plans, and customer service?
Join Michael Conlon and cybersecurity expert Scott Wright asthey take listeners behind the scenes of the modern cybercrime industry. This isn't about lone hackers; it's about organised, transnational groups that operate with frightening corporate efficiency.
In this episode, you will discover:
The Business of Crime: Learn how major criminal organisations like Spider Wizard run their operations with structure—complete with HR departments and people complaining about covering Christmas. They even offer ahelp desk for victims who don't know how to send a ransom payment in Bitcoin!
The History of Scams: The psychology ofmanipulation is nothing new. Trace the roots of the modern Nigerian Prince scam back over 150 years to the 19th-century "Spanish Prisoner" mail fraud.
Why Education is the Top Target: Find out why UK educationis attacked at a rate that is more than three times the global average for government organisations. Scott explains the high-value data and resource dynamics that make schools and universities a prime target.
The AI and SOC Evolution: How are defenders staying ahead?Hear how the best security tools have used AI for over a decade and how the industry is breaking down large AI models into small, predictable tools to improve security.
The Human Element: Scott details how the simplest acts ofmindfulness—like hovering over a link or pausing when rushed—are the most effective defense. Plus, understand why a simple sign telling people to 'keep the door open' is a surprisingly effective physical hack.
Find out more about us: www.xma.co.uk
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
72,024
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 52 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
73
Social presence
0
YouTube
76
Engagement
0
Contact Best in Class - An EdTech podcast from XMA
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Best in Class - An EdTech podcast from XMA?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine