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Dec. 19, 2024

Swiping Right with ALS with Brooke Eby

In this heartfelt and humorous episode Brooke Eby, social media advocate and ALS warrior, shares her journey of living with and raising awareness about ALS. From her initial symptoms to her diagnosis years later, Brooke talks candidly about the misconceptions surrounding ALS, her work with Salesforce to support the ALS…

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Dec. 12, 2024

The Art of Social Correction with Denver Riley

In this episode Denver Riley returns to explore the hidden meanings behind teacher language, focusing on the art of social correction and phrases that say one thing but mean another. Takeaways: The Value of Social Correction: Teachers use subtle language as a way of guiding behavior and managing classroom dynamics…

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Dec. 5, 2024

Unforgettable Freak-Outs with Tyler Jackowski

In this high-energy episode I am joined by Tyler Jackowski, an educator and content creator, for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation about teaching, ADHD, mental health, and the wild world of classroom chaos. From unforgettable freak outs in the classroom to advice on thoughtful teacher gifts and even the unexpected…

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Nov. 28, 2024

A Thanksgiving Special: Gratitude and Turkey Butts with Denver Riley

In this special Thanksgiving episode I sit down with Denver Riley to dive into a blend of holiday trivia, teacher humor, and unexpected insights. As we tackle Thanksgiving history questions (with some questionable accuracy), Denver and I find ourselves navigating through fun facts, turkey anatomy, and relatable teaching stories. We…

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Nov. 21, 2024

The Stories That Connect Us with Upworthy's Gabriel Reilich and Lucia Knell

In this inspiring episode of I sit down with Gabriel Reilich and Lucia Nell from Upworthy to discuss their heartwarming book, Good People: Stories from the Best of Humanity. We explore the power of small acts of kindness, the impact of storytelling, and how positivity can counteract the negativity in…

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Nov. 14, 2024

The Problem with Sleepy Stickers: A Teacher’s Perspective with Denver Riley

This week Denver Riley is back to dive into the quirky and chaotic moments that make up daily life in the classroom. From a “bagel ban” created by Denver’s students to navigating E.E. Cummings' poetry with skeptical high schoolers, they share the ups and downs of engaging students. Denver recalls…

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Nov. 7, 2024

Family Trolls and Hosting Goals

This week I welcome my sister Becca Cousins, creator of Host in Your Home, for a lively discussion about the ups and downs of party hosting. From family trolling on social media to sharing tips on how to host stress-free gatherings in less-than-perfect homes, this episode has it all. Becca…

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Oct. 31, 2024

Haunted Classrooms and Mormon Wives with Denver Riley

This week Denver Riley and I tackle the rollercoaster of being a teacher, from Denver’s near-miss with HR over a missing credential to the spooky fun of Halloween in the classroom. But the real fun begins when they hilariously compare the cast of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives to the…

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Oct. 24, 2024

Homework Horror Stories: When Parents Say ‘No Way! with Gabe Dannenbring

This week I chat with Gabe Dannenbring about the challenges of modern-day education. From managing work-life balance post-pandemic to evolving classroom dynamics, we explore how teachers and students alike are navigating an ever-changing landscape. Gabe shares his perspective as a middle school teacher, while I bring insights from the university…

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Oct. 17, 2024

Turning Stickers into Classroom Gold with Andrea Miller

This week I chat with the ever-popular "Sticker Teacher" Andrea Miller, known for her viral classroom content and sticker-based student motivation. Andrea shares her journey from middle school math teacher to content creator with millions of followers, and how her love of stickers has transformed classroom behavior and engagement. We…

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Oct. 10, 2024

Pep Rally, Tooth Picks, and Gen Z Teachers with Jennifer Cerda & Denver Riley

This week I am joined by Jennifer Cerda & Denver Riley who share their experiences in teaching and leadership, along with some unforgettable classroom moments. From managing classroom dynamics to the infamous pep rally incident that shocked the entire school, they dive deep into the challenges and rewards of teaching…

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Oct. 3, 2024

Dropped in the Classroom: WTF are State Standards with Valerie Dominy

This week I'm joined by Valerie Dominy, a high school business teacher and the founder of The Highest Standard. Valerie shares her insights into teaching, from navigating state standards and alternative certification to helping new teachers survive their first years in the classroom. They discuss the importance of parent communication,…

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Sept. 26, 2024

Mastering Work-Life Balance in Teaching with Natalie Ringold

This week I sit down with Natalie Ringold, founder of Always Upper Elementary, to talk about effective teaching strategies and work-life balance. Natalie shares her viral experience teaching kindness, discusses the impact of social-emotional learning (SEL), and explains how structured schedules help her manage time efficiently in a busy classroom.…

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Sept. 19, 2024

Using Humor, Pranks, and Modern Tools to Thrive in Teaching with Kevin McClintock

This week I sit down with Kevin McClintock, aka Mr. McTikTok, to discuss the realities of teaching in today’s classrooms. We dive into the use of humor and pranks as tools for engagement, and how Kevin navigates classroom dynamics with both humor, pranks, and care. We even reflect on how…

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Sept. 12, 2024

Managing Bias While Addressing Real-World Issues in Education with Sharon McMahon

This week I sit down with "America’s Government Teacher" Sharon McMahon, known for her clear, unbiased approach to current events. Together, we discuss the challenges teachers face in today’s polarized environment and how educators can help students think critically, understand media bias, and engage with controversial topics without feeling overwhelmed.…

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Sept. 5, 2024

In class with a rockstar: Bowling for Soup’s Jaret Reddick

This week I sit down with the multi-talented Jaret Reddick, lead singer of Bowling for Soup and solo country artist. We dive into Jaret’s musical journey, from his pop-punk roots to his new adventures in country music, discuss the importance of educators who see potential in every student, and explore…

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Aug. 29, 2024

What Are the Dangers of Suppressed Emotions in Students?

This week I sit down with motivational speaker Jared Scott to discuss his journey from a shy, small-town kid to a leading advocate for student mental health. Jared shares his personal experiences with loss, the power of vulnerability, and the importance of mental resilience in overcoming trauma. Together, they explore…

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Aug. 22, 2024

How Does Solo Sailing Compare to Teaching? with Luke Hartley (@Sailing_Songbird)

This week I sit down with Luke Hartley, also known as the Sailing Songbird. Luke shares his extraordinary journey from being a middle school music teacher in Seattle to sailing solo around the world on his 27-foot sailboat. Currently anchored in French Polynesia, Luke discusses the joys and challenges of…

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Aug. 15, 2024

Why Is Honest Sex Education Essential in Schools? with Leslie Rob

This week I sit down with Leslie Robinson, a dynamic stand-up comedian, speaker, and Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) teacher. The conversation dives into Leslie’s unique teaching experiences, from navigating the shift from Home Economics to FACS, to engaging students in practical life skills that they’ll use beyond the classroom.…

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Aug. 8, 2024

What Are the Realities of Being a Teacher and a Mom? with Melissa Rabaya & Lauren Antonio

This week I spoke with my long time friends Melissa Rabaya & Lauren Antonio ! We discuss the realities of balancing teaching and motherhood, by sharing candid stories about the challenges and joys of raising young children while managing demanding teaching careers. From dealing with decision fatigue to handling discipline…

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Aug. 1, 2024

How Do Conspiracy Theories Affect Our Students? with Katy Kahn

This week I spoke with Katy Kahn! Together we explore a range of topics, from the humorous misunderstandings in pickup basketball to the serious challenges of media literacy in today's digital age. Katy shares her unique journey as a teacher and content creator, discussing the importance of teaching students to…

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July 25, 2024

What Are the Secrets to Longevity in Teaching? with Jessica Hawk

This week I spoke with Jessica Hawk! Together we discuss the importance of administrative support in achieving long-term success in teaching, the challenges and rewards of starting a Gay-Straight Alliance in the early 2000s, and the humorous yet touching moments of Jessica's last days at school. This episode offers valuable…

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July 18, 2024

How Can We Keep Teachers in the Classroom? Insights with Charles Fournier | Those Who Can't Do

This week I spoke with Charles Fournier! Together, we dive deep into the critical issues of teacher attrition, workload, and the cultural challenges within the education system. Charles shares insights from his podcast, discussing the systemic problems that lead to teachers leaving the profession and potential solutions to these issues.…

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July 11, 2024

Teach for America Critiqued with Joe Dombrowski

This week I spoke with Joe Dombrowski! He shares his journey from elementary school teacher to full-time touring comedian. Joe shares some wild classroom stories, including his infamous viral April Fool's prank, and offers hilarious insights into the world of teaching and comedy. Plus, don't miss his candid take on…

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