About the show
Teaching Python is a podcast about Python programming, computer science education, AI literacy, software development, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data, and how people learn technical skills.
Hosted by Kelly Schuster-Paredes, Sean Tibor, and Julian Sequeira, the show is for educators, developers, technology leaders, and lifelong learners who want to better understand how Python connects to the wider world of computing. Episodes explore not only how people learn to code, but also how they build technical judgment, understand systems, evaluate AI-generated code, work with data, think about security, and move from beginner programming into real-world software development.
About the Hosts
Kelly Schuster-Paredes is a teacher who codes whose work has expanded from classroom computer science into AI strategy, curriculum design, professional learning, educational technology, and responsible technology adoption. Her background in Python and computer science education shapes her focus on learning, AI literacy, computational thinking, and what people need to understand in an AI-shaped world.
Sean Tibor is Vice President of Infrastructure and Cloud at Pfizer and a former computer science teacher. He brings expertise in cloud computing, infrastructure, engineering operations, and technical leadership, connecting what people learn about computing with how large-scale systems are actually built, operated, secured, and maintained.
Julian Sequiera is a technologist, Fractional CTO, and Senior Program Manager with more than 20 years of experience in infrastructure, cloud, engineering operations, and large-scale technology programs. He is also the co-founder of PyBites, a Python learning platform and community that has helped thousands of developers improve their Python and software development skills.
What We Cover
- Python Programming and Computer Science Education: Learning Python, teaching programming, computational thinking, debugging, code literacy, and helping beginners build strong mental models.
- AI and AI Literacy: AI-assisted programming, evaluating AI-generated code, responsible AI use, human judgment, and what learners still need to understand when AI can produce code.
- Cloud, Infrastructure, and Cybersecurity: Systems, networks, deployment, security, reliability, architecture, and the operational side of software.
- Data and Software Engineering: APIs, databases, testing, maintainability, version control, software design, and moving from simple scripts to real-world applications.
- Learning and Technical Growth: How people learn difficult technical concepts, get unstuck, build confidence, and develop the judgment needed to use technology well.
- Expert Interviews: Conversations with educators, developers, engineers, researchers, technology leaders, and others shaping the future of computing and technical education.
Teaching Python remains grounded in Python, but the conversation extends beyond syntax. The podcast explores the knowledge, skills, systems, and judgment people need to learn, build, and make responsible decisions with technology.
Teaching Python on social media
Episodes
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Episode 150: LLMs with Simon WIllison
August 28th, 2025 | 1 hr 36 mins
ai, coding, curriculum, django, education, llm, programming, prompt injection, python, security, simon willison, teaching
Kelly and Sean chat with Simon Willison about the promises and perils of using large language models in Python education. They explore how LLMs can accelerate learning while discussing security concerns like prompt injection, the importance of building foundational skills before introducing AI tools, and strategies for maintaining student engagement in an AI-powered world.
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Episode 149: Guiding Education with Sheena O'Connell
July 15th, 2025 | 47 mins 42 secs
africa, education, python
Join Sean and Kelly as they chat with Sheena O'Connell about her incredible work in education, from teaching coding bootcamps in South Africa to running teamwork courses for professionals. They dive deep into soft skills training, psychological safety in teams, and how cultural concepts like Ubuntu influence collaborative learning and development.
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Episode 148: PyCon 2025 AI Education Open Space
June 8th, 2025 | 57 mins 25 secs
ai in education, classroom technology, coding pedagogy, critical thinking, edtech, open space discussion, pycon us 2025, python teaching, student learning, teacher voices
Educators, developers, and content creators gather at PyCon US 2025 to candidly discuss the evolving role of AI in education. Through a series of open mic reflections, participants share personal experiences, challenges, and philosophies about integrating AI into teaching, learning, and coding. The conversation explores the benefits, pitfalls, and future directions of AI-assisted education, highlighting both practical classroom strategies and broader ethical considerations.
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Episode 147: The Power of Teaching APIs
March 24th, 2025 | 40 mins 5 secs
apis, education, python, teaching
Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes take a deep dive into teaching APIs, sharing practical lessons, amusing anecdotes, and insights into integrating APIs into a comprehensive coding curriculum.
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Episode 146: PSF Education Outreach Workgroup and the Education Summit
January 20th, 2025 | 52 mins 32 secs
In this episode, Sean and Kelly are joined by Keith and Chuck from the Python Education and Outreach Workgroup to discuss their efforts in promoting Python education. They talk about the group's goals, such as seeking feedback on Python education resources and organizing the Education Summit at PyCon US. The hosts share their 'wins of the week' and discuss the importance of community and support in education.
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Episode 145: The Bigger Picture of Teaching Python
January 13th, 2025 | 1 hr 2 mins
In episode 145 of Teaching Python, Sean and Kelly discuss their six-year journey, the shift in computer science education, and the impact of AI on coding. Key topics include their new experiences with Blue Sky, the evolution of job roles in the tech industry, the enduring importance of fundamental coding skills, and their ongoing commitment to CS education. The episode also highlights upcoming events, collaborations, and celebrates their wins over the past years.
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Episode 144: Python in Africa with Kudzayi Bamhare
January 6th, 2025 | 53 mins 18 secs
african innovation, coding communities, inclusive learning, python education, tech challenges
In episode 144 of Teaching Python, Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes are joined by special guest Kudzayi Bamhare from Zimbabwe. They discuss the role of Python education in driving innovation in Africa, the challenges of expanding coding communities, and the importance of creating inclusive, supportive environments to foster learning and growth in the tech industry.
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Episode 143: Computational Thinking 2.0 with Dr. John Chapin
December 30th, 2024 | 55 mins 59 secs
computational thinking 2.0, cs education, data science, machine learning, python
In Episode 143 of Teaching Python, Sean and Kelly sit down with Dr. John Chapin, a renowned computer science teacher and presenter at CSTA, to explore the transformative power of Computational Thinking 2.0 in CS education. They discuss its practical applications, the importance of Python and data science in modern curricula, and the future of teaching coding and machine learning.
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Episode 142: Middle School Magic: Integrating AI, Data Science, and Computational Thinking with Kelly Powers
December 22nd, 2024 | 1 hr 1 sec
ai in education, coding education, collaboration in the classroom, computational thinking, computer science curriculum, creativity in education, cybersecurity, data science, educational technology, generative ai, middle school education, python programming, student engagement, teaching strategies
In Episode 142 of Teaching Python, hosts Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes converse with Kelly Powers, a middle school educator and curriculum designer. They delve into a myriad of engaging topics, including the intricacies of teaching computational thinking skills, the integration of AI and data science into the middle school curriculum, and the unique challenges and joys of teaching middle school students. The episode is packed with insights on fostering creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking in the classroom. Don't miss this enlightening discussion for educators and tech enthusiasts alike!
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Episode 141: Unlocking Python Expertise with Trey Hunner
December 14th, 2024 | 51 mins 32 secs
ai in education, coding for beginners, creative coding, educational technology, learning strategies, programming tips, python features, python programming, teaching python, trey hunner
In this episode, hosts Kelly Schuster-Paredes and Sean Tibor are joined by Python expert Trey Hunner for an engaging and insightful conversation. Together, they explore the intricacies of teaching Python, the evolving role of AI in education, and the excitement of discovering new programming features. Join the conversation and be part of their exploration into the balance of fun and learning in the world of Python.
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Episode 140: Girls Programming Network with Renee Noble
December 1st, 2024 | 1 hr 54 secs
equity, girls, programming
Sean and Kelly welcome Renee Noble, a Microsoft Cloud Advocate and CEO of a nonprofit focused on empowering women and gender-diverse individuals in tech. Renee shares her journey in tech, the impact of the Girls Programming Network, and insights on creating supportive, inclusive learning environments. The conversation also delves into the importance of role models and the multifaceted role of an advocate in the tech industry.
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Episode 139: Code Your Dreams with Brianne Caplan
November 24th, 2024 | 44 mins 41 secs
community, education, python
In Episode 139 of Teaching Python, Sean Tibor and Kelly Schuster-Paredes catch up with Brianne Caplan, founder of Code Your Dreams. They discuss the evolution of coding education, embracing failure, and innovative projects from kindergarten through adult learners, including mindfulness apps and community-driven police transparency solutions. Join them for an inspiring conversation about leveraging technology to impact communities positively.