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18 Aug 2023
Introduction to Balance Your Life - New Podcast for Educators with Grace Stevens
Are you passionate about being an educator but crave a more positive experience? One that doesn't consume your whole life and leave you feeling stressed and overwhelmed? You're not alone.
In this first episode of Balance Your Teacher Life, the new podcast for educators, Grace Stevens introduces herself, shares her background and journey from the corporate world to becoming a public school teacher, author, and educator empowerment coach, and explains the mission and content of the podcast.
Join Grace Stevens as she shares her journey from corporate sales to teaching and beyond. Hear how she navigated this turbulent journey and discovered techniques from positive psychology and neuro-linguistic programming to combat anxiety, depression, and burnout in the classroom.
Each episode of this new podcast for educators will provide you with practical strategies, inspiring stories, and proven tips to help you craft your own path and experience in the complex yet fulfilling role of teaching. Join her weekly for a healthy dose of inspiration for teachers coupled with realistic and proven tips to take back control of your time and energy and thrive in teaching.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Welcome to a revolutionary episode where you'll learn the elusive art of saying 'no'. As educators, we often find ourselves donating countless hours to the school system, sometimes to our own detriment. So, how exactly do we find the delicate balance between lending a helping hand and overextending ourselves? Immerse yourself in our discussion as we explore this predicament, offering you strategies to take control of your commitments and establish healthier boundaries.
We begin by tackling the challenging task of strategic planning and duty evaluation. We guide you through creating a clear and organized plan for your personal life at the start of the year. We also help you to understand the importance of choosing duties based on passion rather than obligation. Then, we navigate the complex journey of saying 'no' in a student-focused way, empowering you with a five-step guide to frame your refusal as a decision in the students' best interest. Trust us, the more you practice, the easier it gets.
We wrap up our in-depth discussion with the importance of setting boundaries, a crucial aspect of being an educator. This might involve saying 'no' to pushy coworkers and parents while maintaining a cooperative attitude. Not to worry, we've got your back. We even share a sneak peek into my book, The Ultimate Boundaries Playbook for Teachers, filled with practical scripts for those tough conversations. This episode is your guide to finding balance and preserving your energy, enabling you to continue being the best educator you can be. Tune in!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Positivity can be toxic - a hard-hitting truth that many schools are unwilling to accept. Welcome to our no-holds-barred conversation on the insidious impacts of forced false positivity in education, a pretty façade that masks the real problems plaguing our education system. We debunk myths and shed light on the darker side of those "fun" activities like spirit weeks, the labeling of teachers, and the damaging effects of perpetuating a too-good-to-be-true environment.
We're not advocating for a gloomy atmosphere or embracing negativity. No, instead we champion the cause of empowerment - a subtle, yet powerful shift away from empty cheerfulness. Empowerment breeds an atmosphere where individuals' feelings are respected, where labels are discarded, where 'Stay in Your Lane' teachers are admired for their steadfastness. This episode is your invitation to join us as we scrap the veneer of toxic positivity and delve into creating a healthy, holistic, and empowering environment in the world of education. Tune in, and let's embark on this journey together.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Have you ever been all excited to get the roster of your new students only to find that you have a disproportionate number of students with special circumstances in your class? You're not alone, and we're here to challenge this trend.
We dive deep into the heart of class list inequality, exploring the possible reasons behind this. More importantly, we offer strategies and mindsets to feel empowered to have a successful year, anyway. It's not about complaining but about understanding reality and successfully navigating it.
We're here to share our tried-and-true strategies for harnessing positive energy, even when working with challenging students. We fervently believe that every child in your classroom is there because they need you the most. This perspective can drive personal and professional growth and make a world of difference in your teaching journey.
Finally, let's talk about mindset. The narrative you tell yourself and others is more powerful than you think. We discuss how shaping this narrative can impact your attitude, your classroom, and, ultimately, your results. No one said teaching would be easy, but with the right mindset and support, it's all doable. Whether you're seeking advice from the admin, learning new coping strategies, or just reminding yourself that you can do anything for 180 days, we're here to help. Remember, every student deserves a chance, so let's reshape teaching one class at a time.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Is living your best #TeacherLife contributing to your teacher burnout in ways you're unaware of? We've all been there - that point where our identity becomes so entwined with our profession that we lose sight of who we are outside the classroom.
This episode tackles that reality head-on, exposing the potential pitfalls of over-identifying with our roles as educators. From our wardrobe to our online presence, we discuss how this obsession can lead to a lack of work-life balance, overwhelm, and stress on our relationship. We explore the idea of teaching being a verb (something we do), not an identity (who we are).
You will leave the episode empowered with proven strategies to help you regain a better balance and ward off educator burnout.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
A huge cause of teacher burnout is being surrounded by other educators who are constantly negative. In today's episode, we tackle these concerns head-on, exploring practical strategies for preserving your inner peace and maintaining optimism within the context of today's educational landscape, which is, let's face it, very challenging.
Understand the difference between occasional venting, having a bad day, and persistent negativity. Discover the strategies and scripts to empathize with and validate others without letting them drain your battery.
What happens when the negative co-worker is a teammate you can't avoid? I'll shine a light on how to set boundaries with them and how to establish norms that promote positivity during meetings. Learn how to express your feelings without blaming others and, ideally, involve others in creating solutions.
A critical component of self-care for teachers is setting boundaries with negative people. In this episode, I'll help you do just that.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
A key way to avoid burning out is to take time during the teaching day to rest, recharge, and connect with other adults. How often do teachers genuinely take a break? And what can you do if your common break area is where all the complainers congregate?
In this episode, I discuss the science, the strategies, and the absolute necessity of taking breaks as a teacher. Topics covered include:
Why taking breaks is essential to your mental health and your productivity.
Fun solutions like 'Friendship Fridays' and a 'Positivity Parking Lot'
How to set boundaries that foster connections among colleagues and transform the staff room into a place of positivity and support
A FREE resource to help with either a personal or school-wide wellness challenge
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Ready to challenge your understanding of grit and perseverance? In this episode, I dissect the essence of Angela Duckworth's revolutionary research on grit and the potential pitfalls when her concept is misunderstood and misapplied, leading to an unhealthy grind culture in education.
Highlights of this episode include:
The four psychological assets that gritty individuals tend to possess
How to cultivate grit in our students and ourselves without turning it into "grind"
How the "grind" culture has permeated education and the two secrets to avoiding it - prioritizing balance and setting healthy boundaries
My little tantrum over why 90% of school spirit wear is designed for men when so many of us are women and end up wearing frumpy, oversized crew necks that make us look like we ran out of clean clothes and had to wear our husband's t-shirt to school (yes, I said what I said!)
I invite you to reflect, question, and redefine your approach to grit, helping you navigate the fine line between passion, perseverance, and burnout.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
As an author and an avid reader, I'm obsessed with books. What if the books with the greatest power to transform your teaching and relationships with students, parents, admins, and co-workers aren't books about education?
In this episode, I dive into Stephen Covey's masterpiece, 'The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.' This body of work opened my eyes, changed my thought process, and made me comfortable discussing my feelings and challenges. It was my "gateway drug" into all things personal development.
I'll be sharing my journey and how I've seen these habits shape and improve my classrooms, relationships with parents, and connections with co-workers.
Highlights of this episode include:
➡️ How I got introduced to this legendary work ➡️ What are the seven habits? ➡️ How do the habits relate to our life as educators? ➡️ From IEPs to setting boundaries on time and communicating with parents - how these practical habits have stood the test of time ➡️ Why Covey's seventh habit is the foundation for authentic self-care and better school and life balance
For my about Stephen Covey's leadership and life principles, you can visit: https://www.franklincovey.com/the-7-habits/
Or read his famous book that started it all : The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People - Dr. Stephen R. Covey
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
In this episode, inspired by Dr. Stephen R. Covey's first chapter of "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" I discuss the ONE paradigm shift that could transform our teaching. A paradigm shift isn't just a buzzword; it's a fundamental change in how we approach or understand a situation.
➡️ Imagine, you have the same students, the same classroom, the same co-workers, and even the same teaching materials—but your perspective changes dramatically. That's the power of a paradigm shift.
Highlights of the episode include:
💛 how paradigms shape our experiences, reactions, and results 💛 one of the greatest paradigm shift in education in the last decade - growth mindset 💛 the most powerful paradigm shift to transform your relationships with all of the major players you encounter in your school day 💛 what if student behavior that triggers you is less of a "wall" and more of a "mirror"?
🎙️Listen along and challenge yourself to remember that not everyone has the skills you have - we're mostly just doing our best.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Imagine transforming your teaching day into a more peaceful, joy-filled experience. Picture a classroom where the small stuff doesn't phase you and the big stuff doesn't overwhelm you or your students (oh, happy day!)
In this episode, I'm digging into Dr. Richard Carson's classic book 'Don't Sweat the Small Stuff', and picking out the top five strategies that can help you feel empowered to cut through all the noise and distractions, and save your energy for the "big stuff". It's a classic text with a hundred suggestions, but I'm picking out the ones that can be applied specifically to school life.
❤️ I love this book, and its practical wisdom. But join me as I go a little deeper into what "the small stuff" in the classroom is, AND I'll share a tried-and-true strategy for emotional regulation that's been a game-changer for me.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
If you are finding it hard to avoid teacher burnout and engage in true teacher self-care - this might be the piece you're missing. Buckle up, because in this week's episode, I am about to challenge the deep-seated belief that overwork and personal sacrifice are just part of the teaching gig.
Do you feel like you need to sacrifice everything for your students? It's time to empower yourself and find the proper work-life balance.
First, I'll define the teacher martyr myth and examine how teaching became a female-dominated profession where self-sacrifice is expected. There, I said it!
Cultural norms and media perpetuate this idea, but it hurts relationships and effectiveness.
Next, I'll give 5 steps to break free:
💣 Recognize how martyrdom hurts you 💣 Examine the emotional toll of overworking ✅ Improve boundary-setting skills ❎ Stop competing about who's more overwhelmed ❎ Check yourself if you judge balanced colleagues
It's time to celebrate educators who model sustainability. Make a commitment to honor your own needs while serving students. It's what this whole podcast is about and it will help you not only avoid teacher burnout but put the sparkle ✨ back in your teaching day.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Once Halloween hits, it seems the momentum of the holidays just doesn't stop! In this week's episode, I look at how to avoid holiday teacher burnout and how to calm the classroom chaos that this time of year brings.
I promise that with these five essential teacher tips, you will transform both your home and classroom environment to be a little more grace and a little less grinch.
You'll learn how to:
✂️ Strategically cut back so you don't go crazy
🕰 Plan for the inevitable chaos (double down on routines & structure!)
🧘♀️ Infuse calm into each day
👌 Stick with classroom traditions that work
📲 Communicate clearly with parents
I'll also touch on how to address cultural sensitivity and inclusivity without getting overly stressed or letting parents bully you. And give you access to a FREE RESOURCE appropriate for most classrooms.
Use these 5 simple tips to help you avoid burnout and enjoy the holidays with your students. 🎁
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
What if we told you that the secret to managing life's stressors could be as simple as tacking on a couple of extra minutes of sleep or adding a splash of protein to your breakfast?
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Noami Hall, (the Recovering Educator) a seasoned educator who knows a thing or two about stress management. With her wealth of experience spanning two decades, Dr. Hall shares the five fundamental blocks to managing stress - movement, nutrition, sleep, hydration, and mindset, proposing that even the tiniest tweaks to these aspects of our lives can yield significant results.
Our chat with Dr. Hall delves beyond the usual stress management rhetoric as we discuss the potential benefits of incorporating movement and guided breathing techniques into everyday routines.
Ever wondered how to bring these practices into a classroom setting?
Dr. Hall has got you covered with practical tips and strategies for incorporating these ideas into your classroom.
We also open up a conversation about the importance of having a calming pre-bedtime routine - think blue light-blocking glasses and outfit planning for the next day. It's all about promoting better sleep and making pre-bedtime stress management easier and more effective. And it's all super easy habits you can start working on today!
Join us for this engaging episode as we navigate the challenges of stress management and self-care for educators.
To download Dr. Hall's FREE resource, click here: Breathwork Apps
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Let me help you get ready to have the best parent-teacher conference season ever! 📝 While it can cause a lot of teacher stress, conferences are an important chance to connect with families. With some preparation, you can make conferences productive and positive!
In this episode I do do a deep dive into these top 5 strategies to help everything run smoothly.
🔑 First, leverage technology to take yourself out of the scheduling drama! It will also help you meet the needs of parents with inflexible schedules.
⏰ Second, manage expectations upfront. Tell parents how long conferences will be and remind them not to be surprised - they should already know if their child is struggling.
👩🏫 Third, involve students when you can with self-reflection exercises like "glow and grow." Get their perspective and involve them in the "triangle of success."
❌ Fourth, set boundaries. Have a schedule posted publicly so parents stick to their time slot. Get a witness if you anticipate tension. 👀
🤗 Fifth, imagine it's your child. Lead with the positives. Minimize jargon on forms. Make it a dialogue, not a monologue.
Bonus: Optics matter - tidy your room, dress professionally. Prepare materials in advance so you look authoritative. 💼
So stop dreading those conferences! With some prep, you'll crush it!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
OK - let's get real here. Do you feel like you are beginning to experience teacher burnout? Think again! What you might actually experiencing is compassion fatigue. Do you know the difference between the two? They are two different issues - needing different approaches to address them.
Don't worry - I got you! 🎧
In this week's episode, we dive into:
The difference between teacher burnout and compassion fatigue 🔍
Common myths and misconceptions ❌
Actionable strategies to start feeling better 💪
You'll learn why you DON'T need to feel ashamed if you're struggling.
Both of these issues are occupational hazards in education - but with the right support, you can overcome it! 🙌
Remember - I'm here to empower you, not just talk about sunshine and rainbows 🌈 or add to the educational "pity party." This episode will give you hope, clarity, and direction to regain your passion for teaching!
Find out how to start bouncing back -> listen now! 🎙
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Can 5 minutes of mindfulness a day really transform your classroom? 🧘♀️
🎙️ In this week's episode, I chat with Kailey Lefko, co-founder of EduCalme.com, about using mindfulness and emotional regulation strategies to create calm, focused classrooms.
This wonderful discussion is full of science-based strategies proven to empower students to manage their emotions and behaviors and also on how to ground yourself as their teacher.
My favorite part? ⬇️
🔑 Kailey explains the science behind co-regulation - how our emotions and energy impact others around us. When teachers show up to class stressed or anxious, students pick up on those cues, leading to a stressed classroom environment. Like I always say, "Your energy teaches more than your lesson plans."
🎧 Listen to this inspiring discussion about the power of mindfulness in education and learn all about Educalme's plug-and-play program that gives you the tools you need without the need for any additional planning or training.
🎁 Kailey also shares how you can try EduCalme's intro lessons for free.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
The number one cause of teacher burnout is failure to set healthy boundaries. As educators, we love to please; we view ourselves as "helpers," and saying "no" doesn't come easily.
🎙️ In today's episode, I dive into the 5 biggest misconceptions that stop teachers and educators at all levels from setting them.
Misconception 1 - Can't Control Others 🚫
Boundaries aren't about controlling others; they're about managing your behavior and limits.
Misconception 2 - Not My Nature 🤷♀️
Setting boundaries is a learnable skill! With practice, it can become second nature. You can develop the confidence to advocate for your needs.
Misconception 3 - People Will Judge Me 👀
Focus on your values, not others' perceptions. People likely admire, not judge, healthy boundaries. It's about self-confidence.
Misconception 4 - Selfishness 🙅♀️
Boundaries prevent burnout and help you be fully present. This benefits students, too! Self-care is essential, not selfish.
Misconception 5 - Guilt 😞
Don't let guilt override your limits. Your needs matter - be kind but firm. You can't fix everything in education alone.
BONUS: Learn the 5 Magic Words 🪄 to immediately help with overcommitting.
Learn how to put students first when saying "no" to admins in a way that makes it impossible for them to object to your "no."
LEARN how to get your hands on the FREE Boundary Blindspot Quiz for Educators to see where you could be missing out on setting healthier boundaries at www.gracestevens.com/quiz
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Buckle up educators - in this 🎙️ episode, I discuss the dark side of "going with the flow" and how it is fueling teacher burnout. I explain that people pleasing provides short-term benefits but long-term costs.
As a recovering people pleaser, I dive into how this tendency that is so prevalent in educators is leading not only to teacher stress, anxiety, depression, and exhaustion - but also to deteriorating physical health.
I am answering the questions such as:
How did we get here? - Hint: trauma responses, societal conditioning, and occupational hazards that lead teachers to become people pleasers.
Why is it so harmful? 😩 People pleasing causes heightened stress, resentment, lack of work-life balance, and mental/physical health issues over time. Grace reiterates that self-care is not selfish.
How do we stop it? 🛑 I detail actionable steps on how to improve your "disease to please," including:
Reframe narratives and let go of the need for validation
Recognize your responsibilities
Notice cognitive distortions
Get comfortable with discomfort
Learn boundary-setting and communication skills
I also talk about Jill Bolte Taylor's work showing emotions last about 90 seconds in the body and how we can use this to help us stand in discomfort and use curiosity, self-observation, and letting emotions run their course to help us.
You don't want to miss this episode!
Additional resources mentioned in the episode:
Taylor, Jill Bolte. My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist's Personal Journey. Penguin, 2009. Jill Bolte Taylor's TED Talk
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Teachers, are you frustrated that you were SO excited for winter break, but now that it's here, you are having a hard time relaxing and being fully present with your family? I feel you!
In this 🎙️episode, we talk about how to stop worries about school robbing you of your peace and well-deserved relaxation.
I share 5 simple strategies including:
👉 Set firm cut-off dates and away messages before your break 📅
👉 Survey family on most meaningful holiday activity ❤️
👉 Schedule a power hour to tackle lingering tasks ⏱️
👉 Limit social media and news intake 📵
Your cup is empty - this break is essential to pour back into your students. Give yourself 🪙 permission to detach completely and recharge!
The bottom line: Presence over presents! 🎁 Your family wants YOU, not perfect activities or gifts. Focus on joyful connections.
Follow these 5 tips for a restorative, worry-free winter break. You'll return renewed and balanced for 2024! 🥳 Listen in and then go relax and make magical memories! ✨
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Introducing Lunchbox Love Notes: Mini podcast episodes for educators who need a virtual hug, extra teacher support, inspiration, or just the simple joy of a love note snuck in their lunchbox.
This episode is titled "Enough" and works with Dr. Wayne Dyer's mantra of the three phases of "enough."
From my ❤️ to your ears. Enjoy.
Grace xoxo
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
This week's 🎙️ episode is for anyone who has ever wondered if they are taking our "drink to escape/cope" culture too far. As teachers, many of us joke about needing our "lesson planning juice," but some of us have a nagging feeling that maybe our life would be better without alcohol. Educators, this is a judgment-free zone.
Listen along to my conversation with sobriety coach Casey McGuire Davidson, where we discuss all things "sober curious" for educators, including:
The Allure and Cost of Teacher Drinking Culture 🍾
The Benefits of Going Dry for 30 Days 🏋️♀️
Making a Lifestyle Shift Through New Rituals 🧘♀️
Honoring Your Health and Reclaiming Time For You ⏰
Casey shares her wisdom, encouragement, and a great resource to help you get started on a 30-day alcohol-free experiment (try it and see how you feel and what you learn)
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
In this bonus Lunchbox Love Note episode (encouragement for teachers), I talk about how the thought of returning back to school tomorrow may have you feeling mixed emotions - and that's perfectly OK.
🧘🏼♀️ Take a breath and listen to my quickie episode"virtual hug" when you need a little encouragement
I believe in you. You got this 💛
Grace xoxo
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
We all know that teacher burnout can be a genuine occupational hazard - but when does ordinary "teacher tired" become "tired of teaching?"
In this week's 🎙️episode, we discuss all things teacher burnout, including the 5 warning signs that can let you know burnout is sneaking up on you, and, more importantly, what you can do to get yourself out of the burnout rut!
This episode is for you if you're experiencing any of the following:
Physical and emotional depletion (constant "teacher tired)
Detachment and cynicism
Plummeting sense of efficacy
Shortened fuse and defensiveness with students, colleagues, parents, and even your family
Disconnection from purpose (I mean, is teaching really worth it?)
Don't fret! I also cover many strategies to help you get through your burnout and feel empowered to take back control of your time and energy (and I PROMISE I will not tell you burnout is your fault because you didn't practice "teacher self-care")
With the proper tools and support, you CAN reignite passion and prevent teacher burnout from consuming your whole life 😊
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
A mini-episode for overwhelmed teachers who feel guilty that some days they only have 50% of their energy to give to students. I promise you, it's enough 💛
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
What of the Ultimate Educator's Handbook wasn't about classroom management strategies, curriculum planning, or even data-driven instruction? What if what educators MOST need to learn is to avoid teacher burnout and to be happier?
In this week's episode, Grace introduces her best-selling Positive Mindset Habits for Teachers and proposes the idea that the best thing you can invest in for student outcomes and yourself is to learn the skills and habits it takes to be happier.
This jam-packed episode overflows with neuroscience-backed tips to transform your outlook and uplift your teaching.
🧠 Learn how our “happiness set point” accounts for just 50% of our joy - the rest we can control through daily habits and mindset shifts.
📈 Understand the formula: Happiness = Set Point + Circumstances + Voluntary Activities. Our habits have an outsized 40% impact!
📖 Hear the origin story behind Grace’s bestselling teacher self-help book and how it led her to inner peace. Her insights will resonate if you feel disillusioned.
🛑 Break the cycle of burnout! Grace explains hedonic adaptation - how we overestimate how happy physical items and circumstances will make us long-term. Sustainable joy comes from within.
🗒️ Discover a free downloadable PDF habit tracker to build your 5-minute daily ritual. Small consistent steps create transformation.
🌅 Listen to a simple morning routine - visualize your ideal day and make it a reality through positive intentions.
Cut through the skepticism and jump into the science! This is the first of several episodes where Grace outlines how to integrate "happy habits" into your classroom and your life every day. Dive in and share with a friend!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
A mini-episode in the Lunch Box Love Notes series to motivate and encourage educators. This episode's theme is "never doubt your impact."
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
What is the secret to improved student outcomes AND improved happiness for you, the teacher, all had one superpower habit at their core? And that habit was as simple as being present and getting in a "flow" state?
This episode is part two in the series of The Ultimate Educator's Handbook for Happiness where I do a deep dive into some of the habits in my book Positive Mindset Habits for Teachers. And this episode is all about:
🧘♀️ How to give students what they really need from you - your presence 🏀 What great teaching has in common with being a great athlete 👀 What you may be unintentionally doing that is "death to flow" 💻 How the idea that multi-tasking saves you time & energy is 100% wrong (and science proves it) ➡️ The difference between a virtuous circle of productivity and calm in the classroom, and a vicious circle of frustration and poor behavior - and what you may be unintentionally doing that contributes to it
If you've ever wanted to feel more calm and less distracted in the classroom, this episode is for you!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
A mini-episode in the Lunch Box Love Notes series to motivate and encourage educators. This episode's theme is focusing less on students trying to find a way out and "game the system, and focusing more on those trying to find a "way in."
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Do you ever feel like your students are bored and disinterested during lessons? 😴 Are you frustrated with scripted curriculum that leaves no room for creativity? 😤 As teachers, we want our students to be engaged and empowered, not passive. That's where project-based learning (PBL) comes in! 💡
To dig into this student-centered teaching method, I interviewed Ryan Steuer, former engineer, turned middle school teacher turned PBL expert. Ryan is the host of the PBL Simplified podcast 🎙️, the driving force behind the best PBL resources out there, and has a mission that should set you on 🔥
You do NOT want to miss the conversation! My favorite parts:
When Ryan breaks down some sample projects ranging from first graders to high schoolers. These ideas will set your teacher's soul on fire!
Ryan's advice on how to give students "voice and choice" without throwing them into overwhelm.
How project-based learning is GREAT for teachers and students - reinvigorate your teaching and avoid burnout by making learning relevant again! 🔥
And do not miss all the great resources that Ryan so generously shares.
CHECK OUT THESE AMAZING RESOURCES to get you started with Project Based Learning ⬇️
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
This week's episode is part three of our series The Ultimate Educators Handbook for Being Happier where I expand on some of the concepts in my book Positive Mindset Habits for Teachers.
🎧 Get ready teacher friends - this episode has some 🤩 magical joy practices you can start using TODAY to become a joy detective! 🕵️♀️
First up, understand the 🧠 science - how your brain is wired to keep you safe, not happy. Then, learn the strategies on how to override your natural tendency to be on alert for danger and drama, and seek out joy.
🌟 The real magic? 🌟 I'll teach you the 4 easy strategies to bring these habits into your classroom or your school office, where you spend so much of your day!
With these quick and fun practices, you can flex your happy muscle and ramp up your joy, even on the days when stress in banging on your door, parents are demanding, and students are bouncier than a bunch of kids after a Halloween party!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
💛 Educator inspiration for the week ahead. This week's bonus episode is about those students who push your buttons the most. I pose the question: could Mother Teresa even handle this level of "spiritual practice"? 😌
Listen and PAY IT FORWARD by sharing with a colleague who might need to hear this today 🎧
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
This week's episode is part four of our series The Ultimate Educators Handbook for Being Happier where I expand on some of the concepts in my book Positive Mindset Habits for Teachers. THIS is the one you have been waiting for ...
🎧 Everything has been leading to this episode - where we will dive into the science AND the habits of how we can have a more positive teaching experience, right here, right now, in the circumstances that we have (not when we get our "dream class" or our "dream job").
Highlights of the episode include:
📻 Digging into the principle of resonance and learning that the channel we are "tuning into" really shapes our experience of life.
⁉️ The key question we need to ask ourselves to get us back on track when we're heading down a negative thought path
👀 The powerful strategy that can stop that negativity spiral in its tracks
📝 What the ideal "reflection sheet" for undesired behavior would look like
🧠 How your mental diet habits could be holding you back from the life you want more than your food diet
and so much more!
This episode can help you connect the dots with all the other concepts we've been exploring in parts 1-3 of this series. I can't wait for you to listen 🎙️
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
How to Stay Calm When Things Get Heated in the Classroom: 5 Battle-Tested Strategies
Ever felt dangerously close to "losing it" with a disruptive student or challenging class? You're not alone. Escalating behaviors push even the most patient teachers to the brink.
In this empowering episode, learn battle-tested techniques to:
✅ Keep your composure when tensions run high 😰 ✅ Respond vs. react to provocative student behaviors 😡 ✅ Activate your logical brain, not your fight-or-flight response 🧠 ✅ Short-circuit the urge to make situations worse 💥 ✅ Check your inner storytelling when emotions surge 💬
Discover a simple "stop, breathe, ask" method for immediate self-regulation. 🛑😮💭 Get compassionate coaching on maintaining professional standards when you're pushed to the limit internally. 👩🏫
This judgment-free zone offers actionable solutions to preserve your career and peace of mind, even in classroom chaos. 😌 Regain equilibrium and faith in yourself with practical self-care tips. ⚖️👍
You'll walk away recharged ⚡️and inspired to masterfully handle challenging classroom behaviors while modeling the grace under fire 🔥 that transforms students' lives. 🧑🎓
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
💛 Educator inspiration for the week ahead. This week's bonus episode is about not. being so hard on yourself, and not letting one negative interaction, or one out of control student convince you that you are not a good teacher 🧑🏫
Listen and PAY IT FORWARD by sharing with a colleague who might need to hear this today 🎧
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Feeling overwhelmed by school testing season? Dread seeing students suffer from crippling test anxiety? This podcast episode for educators of all grades is for you!
🌟 Learn the one skill you should be teaching all year to ensure test-taking success!
💡 Discover how to create a calm, supportive testing environment in your room.
🎯 Shift the focus to what students can control and where you can find the "done for you" lesson plans to support you.
📣 Understand how to effectively communicate with parents to set students up for success without excessive pressure.
🥳 Learn the best strategies to boost student confidence and eliminate surprise testing stressors.
🎙️ You will find all this and more in this podcast episode for teachers of all grade levels to help your students overcome testing anxiety and perform at their best.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
"Create Your Own Path and Bring Your Own Sunshine" - Finding Inspiration as a Teacher
You may be aware of my signature sign-off. For me, it's not a gimmick, it's a way of being, a huge part of how I avoid teacher burnout, and was my mission both as a teacher and now as an educator empowerment coach. But it has been drawing some discussion (which I love ❤️) SO in this week's episode, I break down what it means (and it IS all about empowerment) and the amazing quote that inspired it.
Here are some highlights and timestamps (in case you are "teacher tired" and "teacher busy"):
⏰ 04:00 - Addressing "toxic positivity" and the need to acknowledge challenges in teaching
⏰ 11:45 The inspirational quote from Haim Ginott and its impact: "My daily mood makes the weather" is just a tiny part of it. I think this quote should be an integral part of every teacher training program!
⏰ 18:00 The importance of a teacher's energy and approach in creating a positive classroom environment
⏰ 24:30 Empowering students to explore their gifts and interests
⏰ 27:00 Closing thoughts and encouragement to create your own positive teaching experience
I hope you find time to listen 🎧
P.S. I also give an update on my upcoming book Beat Teacher Burnout With Better Boundaries: The Secret to Thriving in Teaching without Sacrificing Your Personal Life. It's my way ofkeeping myself accountable!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
🧠 Do You Suffer from Teacher Brain Fog? Overcome Decision Fatigue Now!
As a teacher, have you ever felt like your brain is complete mush by the end of the day? 😩 Unable to make even the simplest decisions like what to have for dinner or what to watch on Netflix?
You're not alone - it's called decision fatigue, and it's rampant in the education profession.
In this insightful podcast episode, host Grace Stevens dives deep into the often-overlooked issue of decision fatigue 🥱 and its harmful effects on teachers' well-being and performance. With eye-opening statistics and relatable personal anecdotes, she explains why educators make a staggering 1,500 decisions per day on average! 🤯
But don't worry, Grace doesn't just highlight the problem - she also shares 5 proven strategies (plus a bonus tip!) to help you overcome decision fatigue and regain your mental clarity. 💡 From meal prepping and establishing routines to prioritizing self-care and allowing yourself grace, these practical tips are game-changers for burned-out teachers.
If you're tired of ending your days in a brain fog 🌫️ and want to make better decisions for yourself and your students, this episode is a must-listen.
Discover how to beat decision fatigue and reignite your passion for teaching today! 🔥
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
🔥 This episode goes out to any educator who has ever felt fed up and burned out because, even though they love teaching, they are constantly stressed, overwhelmed, and guilt-ridden that teaching seems to take up ALL of their time and energy.
In this week's episode, I introduce you to my latest book Beat Teacher Burnout with Better Boundaries: The Secret to Thriving in Teaching Without Sacrificing Your Personal Life.
I also take a moment to cheerlead and celebrate 🎉 🙌 that the book debuted as the #1 New Release in Professional Development for Educators on Amazon this week!
I get real and vulnerable with my struggles and why the root of many of my frustrations at school and in my life was a failure to set healthy boundaries. I'll read you the prologue to the book, and tell you how you can get the FREE Companion Workbook that goes along with it.
This resource is going to be transformative for any educator who ever feels they are:
⭐ Taking on too many extra duties ⭐ Coerced into unreasonable requests by parents, students and controlling colleagues ⭐ On the road to burnout ⭐ Struggling to separate work/home life ⭐ Feeling that their needs and preferences aren't a priority at school or home and most importantly - what to do about it!
If any of this resonates, you are not alone.
Don't miss this encouraging, motivating episode - it could be the first step to feeling empowered to not only teacher burnout but also improve all aspects of your life.
Here's the link to check out the book on Amazon.com If you are interested in learning about a comprehensive course on the same topic of beating teacher burnout by setting healthier boundaries, visit www.GraceStevens.com/lifeback
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Are you ready to "Squash Imposter Syndrome and Start Showing Up as Your Authentic Self ?"
Do you know that what people in hospice regret most is not having played "full out" in their lives, allowing the opinions of others and insecurities from doing what they truly wanted?
Yikes 😳
One area that holds many teachers back from living their best lives is imposter syndrome. Whether you're a new teacher or a veteran, it's time to ditch the self-doubt, ditch that inner voice that worries what people think, and embrace living your fullest life!
In this must-listen episode, host Grace Stevens dives deep into imposter syndrome - that nagging feeling that you're not good enough or qualified enough. She shares hard-won wisdom on:
✨ Recognizing the signs of imposter syndrome in teachers ✨ Overcoming the "what will people think?" inner critic ✨ Practicing self-compassion to silence negative self-talk ✨ Stopping the toxic comparison game that fuels insecurity ✨ Turning knowledge gaps into empowering "teachable moments" ✨ Setting realistic goals to avoid burnout or perfectionism ✨ Creating a "badass list" to celebrate your accomplishments
By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with an empowering 6-step action plan to show up wholeheartedly as the incredible educator you are!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Last weeks episode on overcoming imposter syndrome in education hot a nerve with some listeners! Many reached out to say, "It's like you were in my head."
Here's what I heard a lot: Imposter syndrome often shows up in education when teachers consider pursuing different roles within their school or district, whether it was transitioning into administration, curriculum coaching, or specialized positions within the district office.
🎓 It shows up as fear of judgment from peers, and insecurity that they will not be taken seriously in their new role.
💡 Some educators also told me they realized after the episode they face imposter syndrome when pursuing personal goals outside of their teaching career.
So in this shorter episode, I encourage you all to pursue personal and professional aspirations despite potential judgment or self-doubt. And I also share the one inspirational quote that I have hung on to for over two decades, every time imposter syndrome or that critical voice of, "Who do you think you are?" has shown up for me.
I hope you enjoy it and consider sharing it with a colleague.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Are you tired of "self-care" for teachers being weaponized, placing the burden of managing stress solely on you? This episode will empower you with authentic self-care strategies that go beyond the superficial and address the systemic issues educators face.
Highlights include:
😟 The Ugly Truth: How "self-care" has become a buzzword that dismisses the lack of support and unrealistic expectations placed on teachers
💅 Beyond Face Masks and Pedicures: Unpacking the difference between pampering and true, holistic self-care for educators
The 7 Empowering Strategies for Authentic Teacher Self-Care:
Prioritize Your Basic Human Needs (sleep, hydration, nutrition)
Take Mental Health Days (no guilt, no explanations needed)
Normalize Doctor Appointments (your health comes first)
Cultivate Healthy Habits at School (fresh air, movement, mindfulness)
Build Connections and Support (in and out of school)
Set Healthy Boundaries (the game-changer for avoiding teacher burnout)
Reconnect with Your Body's Needs (self-awareness is key)
The Sobering Reality Check: "If she implodes, we're all screwed" - Taking care of yourself is vital, not just for you but for everyone around you
Free 30-Day Wellness Challenge: A fun, practical resource to kickstart your self-care journey with daily activities (no cost, no extra time needed)
By redefining self-care as a holistic practice addressing systemic issues, you'll be empowered to thrive in your role as an educator while modeling healthy boundaries and self-care for your students.
💛 Be sure to share this episode with a teacher friend!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Tired of the toxic culture of teachers one-upping each other's struggles?
In this episode, I explore how to avoid competitive misery and build a supportive community to combat teacher burnout. Highlights include:
🚨 Are you guilty of one-upping your colleagues' struggles instead of offering support?
💥 The toxic effects of competitive misery on teacher morale and burnout rates
⭐ Learn the "validate and bounce" strategy to disengage from negative dynamics
🤝 Explore ways to build a more uplifting, collaborative teaching community
I'll be honest, I get a little "passionate" in this episode, and don't even get me started on Teacher Quit Tok v. # TeacherLife - feelings can co-exist, and everyone's feelings are valid.
Whether you're a new teacher drowning in responsibilities or a veteran educator stretched thin, this episode is a must-listen! Join the conversation and break free from the cycle of competitive misery.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Have you ever had a Teacher Appreciation Week experience that, instead of leaving you feeling treasured and valued, added stress to your week and left you feeling deflated? Me too! Even with good intentions, overwhelmed administrators often miss the mark.
In this episode, I give some great tips for a budget-friendly Teacher Appreciation Week and even share a few of my favorite gestures in my two decades in the classroom. Actionable tips include:
❌ DON'T give gifts that create more work for teachers ❌ DON'T give insincere, last-minute gestures ❌ DON'T give food celebrations that barely anyone can participate in
✅ DO use the 5 suggestions in the podcast, most of which cost ZERO MONEY 💰 that provide teachers with ✅ True support, fun, and appreciation
Share this episode with your favorite principal or that parent who is fixing to give you yet another framed photo of their child 🤣
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Freedom From the Obligatory Teacher Duty Trap: Reclaim Your Time Without Guilt
Are you drowning under a pile of extra "duties" no one else wants - graduation planning, coaching teams, chairing committees? So many teachers get stuck on the never-ending obligatory duty carousel, scared to get off for fear of looking like a slacker or letting students down. This toxicity has to stop!
In this must-listen episode, learn a powerful mindset shift to escape the black hole of undesirable duties without burning bridges. Host Grace Stevens shares the exact script to push back professionally while still being a team player. Discover how to:
💡 Plant seeds early for a smooth "succession plan" transition 💡 Say "Yes" without being handcuffed to the task forever 💡 Shut down guilt trips from manipulative colleagues or admins 💡 Advocate for duties aligned with YOUR strengths and passions 💡 Learn the powerful "Yes, AND" strategy, because setting boundaries is not always a yes/no proposition
You pour your heart into nurturing students, but that doesn't mean signing up for every soul-sucking obligatory chore that lands on your plate. Learn how to draw healthy boundaries without jeopardizing your reputation or good standing.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
This end-of-year season can be bittersweet for teachers - especially if you have made the difficult decision to leave education. I offer words of inspiration and support to educators who are leaving and those who feel abandoned and "left behind."
The decision to leave the teaching profession is rarely taken lightly, and it's important to honor the range of difficult emotions your colleagues are feeling.
I hope this episode helps ❤️ and that you would consider sharing it with anyone who you feel could use some extra support today.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
"Stressed Out by the End of the School Year? Don't Miss These 7 Game-Changing Tips!"
The end of the school year can be an exhausting whirlwind of activities, assessments, and organizational chaos. Whether you are a new teacher or a seasoned one, you will find something in these end-of-year teacher tips to take away some stress and add some fun to your precious last few days with your students.
Discover the best teacher tips for:
Keeping students engaged with fun, low-prep activities (no devices required!)
Managing overwhelming end-of-year paperwork like a pro
Clever classroom packing and clean-up hacks to save your sanity
Simple ways to make the last weeks memorable for your students
Avoiding classic first-year teacher mistakes
Self-care strategies to relieve stress and cherish the moment
And more surprises to make this your smoothest year-end ever!
Whether you're a brand-new teacher or a seasoned veteran, this episode is your survival guide to crossing the finish line with joy and zen. Hit play and get ready to conquer the end-of-year chaos!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Summer is here, and while you’re counting down the days until that final bell rings, are you also feeling the weight of a never-ending to-do list? Discover how to reclaim your summer and set boundaries that will leave you feeling refreshed and empowered.
In this episode, I dive into the challenges educators face when summer arrives but free time doesn’t seem so free. If you’re tired of your summer being hijacked by others’ demands, this episode is for you. I share personal stories and practical strategies for setting healthy boundaries with love and grace, so you can truly enjoy your well-deserved break.
Key Points:
🎯 Why summer doesn’t always mean “time off” for educators.
🚫 The hidden traps of people-pleasing at home and how to avoid them.
💬 Effective communication techniques to express your needs and desires.
🛑 Identifying and overcoming guilt when saying no.
🛠️ Practical strategies for setting boundaries with family and friends.
📝 How to use “yes, and…” to maintain harmony while protecting your time.
💡 Real-life examples of setting boundaries and handling tricky situations.
🌟 Why setting boundaries is a loving act and essential for your well-being.
Tune in and learn:
How to spot if you’re struggling with boundaries.
The importance of assuming good intentions and communicating clearly.
Tips on buying yourself time to respond to requests.
Strategies for dealing with snarky comments about your profession.
Empowerment Takeaways:
Boundaries are like lane markers on a highway, not just guardrails—essential for smooth travel and safety.
You have the right to say no without guilt and to prioritize your needs.
Setting boundaries enriches relationships by fostering respect and understanding.
And if you TRULY want your experience in education to be better next year (and beyond) I invite you to check out the Elevated Teacher Experience this summer - it is the ONLY program that combines PERSONAL development curriculum with life coaching to help educators elevate every area of their life.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
If you're feeling fed up with the lack of student accountability, chaos in the classroom, and lack of admin support, then this episode is for you. I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Justin Baeder PhD- the incredible voice of reason taking over TikTok for exhausted teachers everywhere.
School leaders - you MUST listen! Teachers - you will feel so seen and validated!
Topics we cover in this episode:
✨ The Hot Mess of Restorative Practices
The well-intentioned but disastrous move to remove student consequences and redefine failure as success
Tales of students returning to class with candy bars after outrageous behavior
How this approach stole all accountability and enabled chaos
✨ Dismantling the "Load Bearing Wall" of Progressive Discipline
The invisible backbone that kept classroom management functional has been decimated
Creating predictable consequences is key for a safe, calm learning environment
Without it, the message is "you can aft how you want without consequences"
✨ The Role of Ideological, Agenda-Driven "Research"
Most discipline studies are "absolute garbage" with massive logical holes
The unfounded claims that avoiding discipline improves student outcomes
How quality research got hijacked by fads and alternative discipline camps
✨ Getting Back to Basics with Firm Boundaries
Rewind 10-15 years to the old-school wisdom that still worked: high standards, counseling, engaged lessons, fair consequences
Prioritize creating a viable learning environment above all else
"We've gone off the rails by making other goals the primary objective"
✨ What Effective Leadership Really Looks Like
It's not just subject matter expertise - wisdom and backbone are crucial
Having experience in a highly functional organization to model healthy leadership
Keeping the main thing (learning) the main thing through the boring basics
✨ Why PBIS program research was solid, but it's being implemented incorrectly
Justin's advice? Fix the foundational pieces like progressive discipline first. Then build your creativity and innovation on that solid base - not the other way around. Regain that empowered stance as an educator by reestablishing firm boundaries and consistent accountability... and so much more!
For comprehensive FREE evidence-based resources on PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLE go to:
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
In this episode, Grace talks with Phil Januszewski, a science teacher, keynote speaker, and positive psychology enthusiast, about practical strategies for teachers to avoid burnout and bring more joy into their lives and classrooms. This conversation is a delightful reminder to prioritize self-care and intentionally cultivate positivity.
Highlights include:
Meet Phil Januszewski, a high school chemistry and physics teacher, who's on a mission to help educators avoid burnout and become happier through positive psychology 🧠💡
Discover the power of focusing on your "ERs" – the things you are, do, and perform daily that build you up (e.g., father, baker, singer) 🎤🍰👨👩👧
Learn how to intentionally schedule and structure your day to hit on those fulfilling "ERs" more often, leading to an overflow of energy and inspiration 🗓️⚡
Explore the idea of leaning into your unique purpose and quirks to create positive change for yourself, colleagues, and students 🦸♀️✨
Hear Phil's 10-minute "TED Talk" on three practical strategies for avoiding burnout as a giver ⏱️🔥
Find out how Phil ended up on Netflix's amateur baking show "Nailed It!" and his hilarious alien cake adventure 🤖🍰
Discover Phil's tips for empathizing with and connecting to even the most resistant or negative audience 👂💞
Get inspired by stories of intentional acts of kindness and their profound impact on well-being 🙌🌟
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
🎙️ Ready for a fresh take on summer prep? Discover why less professional development for teachers and more personal growth might be your key to a rejuvenated classroom experience next year. 🌞💡
In this episode of the Balance Your Teacher Life podcast, host Grace Stevens dives into a topic that sparked some controversy but holds powerful insights for educators. Grace shares her bold perspective on why teachers should prioritize personal development over professional development during their summer break.
Key Takeaways:
📧 The Controversial Email: Why the subject line "F* PD this summer" stirred emotions and what it truly meant.
🏖️ Personal Development vs. Professional Development: Grace’s compelling argument for focusing on self-improvement and personal growth skills.
📚 Real-Life Experiences: Insightful stories from Grace’s two decades in the classroom, including the pitfalls of mandatory curriculum training.
💪 Empowering Change: How personal growth can transform your teaching, energy, and overall life.
❓What are the empowering questions to ask that truly move your life forward?
Overall, you'll learn why educators need less curriculum coaches (we all know how to read that Teacher's Edition") and more LIFE coaches to understand what it takes to thrive in teaching without sacrificing our personal lives.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Teachers, have you ever considered how your mental diet could be harming you?
Would your outlook improve if you could train your mind to think you live in a friendly, not hostile, universe?
Then don't miss this episode of THE podcast just for teachers' well-being and true teacher self-care.
In this episode of Balance Your Teacher Life, host Grace Stevens dives deep into the concept of a "mental health diet." She explains how what we consume mentally—through books, movies, podcasts, TV shows, social media, and the news cycle—impacts our well-being. Grace shares personal anecdotes and provides a practical exercise to help teachers evaluate and improve their mental diet for a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
Key Points:
Introduction: Emphasis on taking care of yourself this summer.
The importance of a healthy mental diet.
How what you are watching, listening, and planting in your mind affects your worldview and nervous system.
Six areas of media consumption to evaluate: books, movies, podcasts, TV shows, social media, and the news cycle.
Practical exercise to assess your mental diet.
Personal stories highlighting the impact of media on mental health.
Encouragement to create a peaceful mental environment.
If you are interested in TRULY improving your teaching experience and learning how to thrive in the classroom without sacrificing your personal life, I invite you to join our community. All details can be found here: www.gracestevens.com/elevate
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
I LOVE TED Talks. About six years ago, I posted my list of favorites for teachers on my blog, and it has been shared thousands of times. I decided it was time to update things, as the educational landscape has changed so much since then. Guess what? Even with all the changes, three of my Top 5 have withheld the test of time.
A heartfelt reminder of the importance of building positive relationships with students. This TED Talk inspired one of the most beloved prompts in my Positive Mindset Habits for Teachers Journal.
Best Quote: "Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them."
Explore the potential of AI to revolutionize education with personalized tutoring and teaching assistants.
Quote: "AI could spark the greatest positive transformation education has ever seen."
With all the negativity surrounding ChatGPT and school, this talk will leave you excited and inspired with the possibilities to provide every student with a personal tutor, and every teacher with a turbo-charged assistant.
An inspiring story of determination and ingenuity from a young mind in Africa.
Encourages t
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
This episode delves into the top five TED Talks for special education teachers. These talks are full of inspiration and insights and cover important topics for ALL educators (not just those in SPED) who want to enhance their understanding and approach in the classroom.
A thought-provoking talk by a comedian and journalist who uses a wheelchair, challenging the notion of disabled people as automatic inspirations.
Encourages viewing people with disabilities as individuals living their lives, not objects of inspiration.
No matter your role in education, you can learn
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
You know when you are spending hours poring over Pinterest and Instagram for the best classroom decor - have you ever stopped to wonder if the time, energy, and money you pour into your classroom decorations are actually making a difference in your student's learning? 🌟
In this episode, we dive into the big question: What is the best classroom decor and does classroom decor really matter?
Let's separate fact from fiction, dig into the educational research, and find a balance for you and your students.
Key Points:
🎨 The Great Decor Debate: Does a Pinterest-worthy classroom enhance student learning or just your Instagram feed?
🧩 Evidence-Based Insights: Discover what research says about the impact of classroom environments on student outcomes.
🌈 Finding Your Balance: Whether you're an "extra" teacher or a minimalist, we discuss practical, balanced approaches to classroom decor.
🧠 Focus on What Matters: Learn which elements of your classroom setup can truly boost student engagement and learning.
💡 Practical Tips: From optimal classroom layouts to effective use of wall space, get actionable tips to create a conducive learning environment.
🧘 Mind Your Budget: Understand how to enjoy decorating your classroom without financial stress or pressure from social media trends.
🤝 Student Involvement: Explore ways to include students in the decorating process, fostering ownership and a sense of community.
Before you blow your hard-earned money on having a Pinterest-worthy classroom, I hope you listen along and maybe even pass this episode along to that one "extra" teacher we all know!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Discover how to use the summer break to reflect on your teaching practice, set empowering boundaries, and show up as your best self in the classroom. These thought-provoking prompts will help you avoid burnout and reignite your passion for education!
Highlights:
🌟 Summer Break: The Perfect Time for Teacher Reflection
Why stepping off the "teaching treadmill" is crucial for growth
How reflection can lead to a happier, more balanced teaching life
🤔 Powerful Reflection Prompts to Transform Your Teaching Practice:
Evaluate your self-care activities and their impact on your mood
Assess how you set and maintained professional boundaries
Identify situations you handled well to boost your confidence
Reflect on your connections with colleagues and how they influenced you
Consider what made your teaching environment enjoyable for you
👩🏫 Growing Through Challenges:
How to view difficult students as opportunities for personal growth
Identifying the students who will leave a lasting impact on your career
🔋 Proactive Recharging Strategies:
Planning ahead to avoid burnout during the school year
Creating a personalized boundary plan (teaser for next week's episode!)
🙏 The Power of Gratitude in Teaching:
How to use gratitude to boost your mood and strengthen relationships
Why it's never too late to thank someone who made a difference
💪 Creating Your "Badass List":
Celebrating your accomplishments and building resilience
Using past successes to fuel future confidence
🌈 Visualizing Your Ideal Teaching Self:
The importance of focusing on your "to be" list, not just your "to do" list
How to use visualization to create a positive classroom atmosphere
To check out the Teacher Lesson and Life Plannerclick here or visit my TpT store
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Attention teachers who are getting ready to go back to school - this is the ONE thing you MUST do before school starts to set yourself up for success. This isn't hype – it's a game-changer that will transform your teaching experience.
🍎 In this episode, we dive into:
The 6 crucial elements of a perfect boundary plan (you've probably only thought about #1!)
Why setting up your classroom isn't enough to prepare for the year ahead
The secret to managing difficult parents, needy coworkers, and demanding students
How to protect your peace and avoid becoming a "shriveled up prune" 🍇
The magic words that will save you from decision fatigue and accusations of favoritism
🏫 Key takeaways:
Time boundaries: Learn how to stop donating 13.5 weeks of unpaid work each year
Space boundaries: Discover the ritual that keeps work at work (physically and mentally)
Parent boundaries: Master the art of the "front gate conference" shutdown
Coworker boundaries: Navigate teamwork without sacrificing your personal life
Negativity boundaries: Identify and limit exposure to energy-draining colleagues
Student boundaries: Establish clear policies that create consistency and respect
Don't start another school year without this essential tool in your teacher toolkit. Listen now and set yourself up for your best year yet!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Back-to-school season can be a rollercoaster, whether you're thrilled to start lesson planning or dreading the endless professional development icebreakers. But nothing causes as many back-to-school jitters as (finally) getting your new class list.
This is the first in a 5-part back-to-school 2024 series. I break down when to take that unbalanced list to administration and when not to, and the 5 top mindsets to adopt to ensure you don't derail your year before it's even begun.
Episode Highlights:
📋 New Class List: Tips on handling the excitement and potential letdowns when seeing your new class list.
🧠 Mindset is Everything: Real strategies and empowering mindsets to face a challenging class with confidence.
👩🏫 Empowering Educators: How to tackle an unbalanced student load and when to take action.
🗣️ Personal Stories: I share a heartwarming story about my childhood experiences with new teachers.
✨ Clean Slate Philosophy: Why every student deserves a fresh start and how this can change your classroom dynamic.
💪 Growth Challenges: Embracing difficult students as opportunities for growth and making a lasting impact.
⏳ Countdown, Not a Life Sentence: Remember, it’s just one school year. Strategies to keep a positive outlook.
📝 Narrative Power: The importance of the stories we tell ourselves and others about our students and teaching experiences.
And so much more!
I hope you find time to listen and feel empowered to make back-to-school as stress-free as possible.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
In this episode, I continue our "Back to School" series, focusing on the all-important aspect of building positive parent-teacher relationships. Drawing on 20 years of experience, I share my "secret sauce" to fostering a productive partnership with parents. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned educator, these insights will set you up for a successful school year.
Key Takeaways for Teachers and Instructional Leaders:
🔑 Mindset Shift: Adopt a partnership mentality with parents. Remember, they want to feel seen, heard, and valued, just like their children. 🔑 Emotional Bank Account: Learn how to build trust and make deposits before expecting anything in return. 🔑 Effective Communication: Tips for clear, consistent, and considerate communication that shows you care. 🔑 The Power of Listening: Understand the importance of listening to parents' concerns and seeking to understand before responding.
👉 Feeling overwhelmed with parent interactions? Don't miss this episode! Please give it a listen and transform your approach to parent-teacher relationships. Remember, a positive start sets the stage for a successful school year!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
❤️ A mini-episode in my Lunchbox Love Notes series - purely inspiration and motivation to support teachers. This one is for you if you have mixed feelings about going back to school. 🍎
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Are you a stressed-out teacher looking for inspiration? 🌟 This episode of the Balance Your Teacher Life podcast takes an unexpected turn, diving into graduation speeches that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even roll your eyes. But most importantly, it'll remind you why you became an educator in the first place.
🎙️ Episode Highlights:
The viral "Bill Gates" graduation speech that wasn't 🤯
11 brutally honest rules for life that every student (and teacher) should hear 📝
The truth behind the viral list and its actual author 🕵️♀️
Jim Carrey's surprisingly profound commencement address 🎭
The five words that could change your students' lives (and yours too!) 💖
🧠 Key Takeaways for Educators:
Fact-checking is crucial, even for inspiring content 🔍
Validation for the struggles of teaching and parenting teens 🤝
The most valuable currency in life: how you make others feel ❤️
Choosing love over fear in your classroom and life 🌈
The importance of mindful connections: "Mind who you hang with" 👥
💡 Quotable Moments:
"Your energy teaches more than your lesson plans." - Grace Stevens
"You are ready and able to do beautiful things in this world." - Jim Carrey
🚀 Action Step for Teachers:
Reflect on the people you surround yourself with. Are they lifting you up or bringing you down? Remember, minding who you hang with is crucial for maintaining your energy and passion as an educator.
🎧 Listen Now:
Don't miss this empowering episode that will remind you of your worth as an educator and inspire you to create positive change in your classroom and life. Click play and let's balance your teacher life together! 💪🏻📚
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Are you feeling anxious about controlling student behavior this year? Are you stressed at the thought that your classroom management plan that used to work in the past is no longer stringent enough for today's challenging classroom behaviors? If these feelings resonate, then this week's podcast episode for teachers is going to be perfect for you!
In this empowering episode, I explore:
🚀 Why classroom management is MORE important now than ever before
🧠 The mindset shift you need to take responsibility for behavior issues
🏫 How recent policy changes are impacting discipline (especially in California!)
📚 Must-read books to level up your classroom management skills
🤝 Getting student buy-in for rules and procedures (without losing control)
👉 The "magic" 3 C's for effective management: Calm, Consistent, Consequences
🎭 Role-playing and modeling to set clear expectations
⏱️ Why investing time in management NOW saves you stress all year
💪 Empowering yourself when admin support falls short
Plus:
🔑 The critical difference between rules and procedures
👀 A unique strategy for creating classroom standards
🖐️ How to use hand signals for subtle redirection
Remember: You've got this! Classroom management is tough, but so are you. Let's double down and feel empowered to handle it all with grace (and some grit).
To access the FREE evidence-driven progressive discipline materials mentioned in the episode, visit: www.principalcenter.com/pd/
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Attention ALL stressed educators! If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the never-ending to-do list or guilty about not getting everything done, this episode is for you. We’re breaking down the myth of the perfect balance and giving you tools to prioritize effectively so you can lead a more fulfilled and empowered teaching life.
In part four of our Back-to-School series, we’re diving into one of the most powerful metaphors to help you redefine what balance really means in your teacher life. Spoiler alert: There's no such thing as the perfect planner or a one-size-fits-all strategy. Instead, we're focusing on intentional choices that will empower you to handle the overwhelm and prioritize what's truly important.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
🔍 The Myth of the Perfect Planner - Why balance isn’t about finding the right tool, but about making intentional choices.
🎯 The Glass vs. Rubber Ball Metaphor - Discover a new way to categorize your responsibilities and how this mindset shift can transform your approach to both your professional and personal life.
📅 Strategic Prioritization - Learn how to map out the glass balls and rubber balls in your life, so you can focus on what truly matters without burning out.
💡 Actionable Tips - Practical strategies for managing your workload, from knowing when to say no to understanding which tasks can wait.
👩🏫 Real Talk for Real Teachers - Why it’s okay to drop some balls, and how to make peace with the ones you choose not to pick up.
Listen today to feel more educator empowered tomorrow! 🎧
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Are you a teacher or school administrator tired of energy vampires draining your enthusiasm at school? 🧛♂️ Discover how to shield yourself from negativity while maintaining compassion for your colleagues. This episode is your ultimate guide to creating a positive school campus environment, even when surrounded by Debbie Downers and Buzzkill Bobs!
🎙️ Episode Highlights:
Why avoiding toxic positivity in education is crucial for authentic growth 🌱
The importance of protecting your peace in a challenging school environment 🛡️
Five proven strategies to navigate negative co-workers effectively - even if they are your grade span team member or teaching partner 🗺️
🔑 Key Strategies in this episode:
Don't Take It Personally: Shift your paradigm and extend grace to others 🤝
Minimize Exposure: Proactively avoid negative situations when possible 🚶♀️
Validate and Bounce: Acknowledge feelings without getting pulled into negativity 🏃♂️
Set Boundaries: Establish clear norms for meetings and interactions 🚧
Increase Your EQ: Develop emotional intelligence for better relationships 🧠
🎯 Remember:
You have the power to create a positive educational future for those in your care. This podcast for teachers can help you navigate challenges with grace, composure, and empathy while staying empowered.
Be sure to share this episode with other educators who want to thrive in teaching without being overwhelmed with negativity.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
5 Pieces of Hard-Earned Wisdom for New Teachers (And Why Every Teacher Should Listen!)
This episode is part five of our special Back to School 2024-2025 series, designed to set you up for success with the best strategies, attitudes, and boundary-setting tips.
Whether you’re a brand new teacher or a seasoned educator, today’s episode is packed with wisdom that’s taken a lifetime to earn. I reflect on my 20-year journey and share five powerful "do's." I wish I could go back and tell my younger self—insights from which every teacher, new or experienced, can benefit.
Tune in to Discover:
🎯 Why these “do’s” are far more valuable than the typical “don’ts” you hear.
🧭 The importance of embracing your moods and making peace with the ups and downs of teaching.
🚀 Why waiting for things to get “better” is a trap—and how to thrive right now.
🛑 How setting boundaries from the start can transform your teaching experience.
🕰️ The crucial difference between urgent and important tasks—and why prioritizing with intention is key.
You’ve got this. Whether you’re stepping into the classroom for the first time or the fifteenth, this episode will remind you that every day is a new adventure in teaching—and you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
In this mini-podcast episode for teachers, I address the six things you will never regret doing as a teacher. While there is such a vast amount of teacher turnover and the teacher shortage is real, teaching can be a rewarding and sustainable career if we're smart about it. Examples of things I never regretted spending time on are:
🍎 taking the high road 🍎 leaning into curiosity over judgment 🍎 embracing the "tangents" that lead to teachable moments 🍎 opting out of the "I'll be happy when" mentality 🍎 investing time in dignifying students 🍎 reading out loud to my students of all ages
I hope you enjoy this jolt of inspiration for teachers!
And if you appreciate my content, I humbly invite you to "pay it forward" and share this episode with a colleague. Everyone wins.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Teachers, ever feel like you’re stuck in a race you didn’t sign up for?
In this episode, Grace explains why the only competition that truly matters is the one with yourself. Get ready to let go of the comparison trap and embrace a mindset that celebrates growth, collaboration, and grace—both for yourself and your students.
🎙️ Lunchbox Love Note Bonus Mini-Episode: Just like those little love notes slipped into your lunchbox, this episode is here to brighten your day with a virtual smile and a hug.
I hope you enjoy this jolt of inspiration and empowerment for teachers!
And if you appreciate my content, I humbly invite you to "pay it forward" and share this episode with a colleague. Everyone wins 💛
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Don't let burnout dim your teaching light! Tune in to learn how the ECHO Framework can transform your classroom experience and reignite your passion for education. 🔥
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
In this special anniversary episode, host Grace Stevens reflects on a year of empowering educators to reclaim their work-life balance.
🌟 Highlights:
Top 3 guest interviews that sparked important conversations
Most downloaded episodes that resonated with listeners
Practical strategies for avoiding burnout and setting boundaries
The surprising truth about "restorative justice" in schools
Why progressive discipline still matters (backed by research!)
🎧 Featured Guests:
Ryan Steuer on project-based learning for all grade levels
Casey Maguire on the "sober curious" movement for stressed teachers
Justin Baeder on rethinking disciplinary practices and restorative justice in schools
🔥 Hot Topics:
5 signs you might be burning out (and what to do about it)
The science behind burnout vs. compassion fatigue
How to protect yourself from vicarious trauma
Remember: You CAN have a better teaching experience and I'm here to help you every step of the way!
🙏 Loved the show? Spread the word! Share an episode with a colleague or leave a 5-star review. Together, we can create a revolution of teacher empowerment!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
🚫 Do You Overshare at School? Top Tips for Protect Your Teaching Career! 🛡️
As educators, we want to connect with our colleagues and build a positive work environment. But oversharing can put your career at risk! 😱 In this eye-opening episode, we tackle the delicate balance between being friendly and maintaining professional boundaries.
Key takeaways:
Social media pitfalls for teachers 📱
Setting boundaries with colleagues 🚧
Recognizing potential "snakes in the grass" 🐍
Strategies for maintaining professionalism 👩🏫
Don't let a moment of oversharing derail your teaching career! Learn how to protect yourself while still fostering genuine connections at work.
Show highlights:
The dangers of posting student photos online ⚠️
Why you should separate personal and professional social media accounts 🔒
How to politely deflect personal questions from colleagues 🙅♀️
The importance of respecting confidentiality 🤐
A personal story of betrayal and its valuable lesson 📚
Remember: Not everyone has your best interests at heart. Stay vigilant, but don't become paranoid. With these strategies, you can navigate the murky waters of workplace relationships and keep your teaching career safe!
Pay it forward: consider sharing this episode with other educators you know. Together we can start a revolution of teacher empowerment.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
🚀 3 Simple Ways to Help Your Students Thrive (By Doing Less!)
In this episode, I reflect on an "Open Letter to Parents from Your Child's Teacher" that I wrote for ThriveGlobal.com back in 2019. I take another look into three game-changing habits that can transform your classroom dynamics and help your students develop crucial life skills.
📌 Key Takeaways:
🎭 Let natural consequences be the teacher
🧠 Foster persistence in problem-solving
🤝 Empower students to navigate social interactions
Discover how these strategies not only benefit your students but also lighten your load as an educator. It's time to break free from the "do-everything" mindset and empower our students to thrive! 💪
🎙️ Episode Highlights:
The timeless nature of classroom challenges (hint: it's not all COVID's fault!)
How over-helping can hinder student independence and confidence
Practical tips for implementing these strategies in your classroom
Real-life examples of how these habits play out (and why they're so tempting!)
The importance of social-emotional learning in conflict resolution
💡 Actionable Tips:
Establish clear homework policies and stick to them
Use prompting questions to guide students instead of providing answers
Implement a structured approach for resolving playground conflicts
Remember, it's not about doing more – it's about doing the right things that truly matter for your students' growth and success. 🌱
🔗 Related Resources:
Episode 61: Back to School 2024, Part Two - Positive Teacher-Parent Partnerships
Ready to transform your teaching approach and empower your students?
Tune in now and learn how doing less can actually lead to more success in the classroom! 🎧
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
In this bonus mini-episode, I'm sending a virtual hug and a little teacher inspiration for this weekend, and a gentle reminder:
❤️ Your life is happening NOW. Don't put off being happier until you have better circumstances in your classroom and campus.
As the meme says, "Tomorrow never comes." You CAN feel empowered to find joy in your classroom right now, with the students you have.
I hope you enjoy this jolt of inspiration for teachers!
And if you appreciate my content, I humbly invite you to "pay it forward" and share this episode with a colleague. Everyone wins.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Many of us know that we need to do a better job expressing our needs, wants, desires, and preferences, but we don't know how to start the conversation or do it in a productive, positive way.
If, like me, you suffer from being a chronic -people pleaser, this episode is for you! I dive deep into the art of setting healthy boundaries – a game-changer for teachers who want to avoid burnout and rediscover their work-life balance. 🏋️♀️💪
Why Boundaries Matter for Teachers
Setting boundaries isn't about building walls – it's about creating lanes that allow you to navigate your professional and personal life with confidence. By establishing clear expectations and limits, you're not only protecting your well-being but also fostering healthier relationships with colleagues, students, and administrators. 🤝
I will cover the 12 Essential Rules for setting healthier boundaries at school and at home. Key concepts include:
🎯 Setting boundaries is a loving act, both for yourself and others.
🎯 Start with small, manageable boundaries and build up your confidence.
🎯 Use "I" statements to express your needs without putting others on the defensive.
🎯 Be prepared to enforce your boundaries, but always do so with grace and professionalism.
I give you all the details you need to start setting healthier boundaries TODAY. Remember, dear teachers: You have the right to a balanced life! By implementing these boundary-setting strategies, you're not just improving your own well-being – you're setting a powerful example for your students and your teaching colleagues. ✨
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
🎓 Breaking Down Dyslexia: What Every Teacher Needs to Know (But Was Never Taught!)
Did you know that 1 in 5 students in your classroom may have dyslexia? Yet most of us learned about it in just "two paragraphs" during our teacher training! In this eye-opening episode, we chat with Lisa Parnello, a full-time dyslexia coach who's transforming how we understand and support students with dyslexia.
Key Takeaways: 📚 Dyslexia isn't about seeing letters backward - it's about how the brain processes language 🧠 Three major signs to watch for:
Phonemic awareness challenges
Executive functioning struggles (organization, time management)
Left-handedness (surprisingly correlated!)
🍎 What teachers can do to help students who they suspect may have dyslexia, despite the imitation of resources in many schools.
🌟 Success Stories: Many highly successful individuals have dyslexia, including:
🎧 Want to Learn More? Check out Lisa's podcast "Dyslexia Devoted" - over 117 episodes of practical strategies and insights
Professional Development Opportunities:
Dyslexia for Beginners Workshop
Educator's Guide to Dyslexia (comprehensive course with 4.5 hours PD credit)
Spelling and Writing Booster Workshops
Use promo code "balance" for 20% off all courses!
Remember: You're not alone in feeling underprepared to support students with dyslexia. With the right tools and knowledge, you can make a significant difference in these students' lives!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Teachers, want to boost your daily happiness and teacher resilience?
In this mini-episode, Grace shares a simple, transformative strategy that requires no time, no money, and very little effort—but has the potential to completely change how you feel and show up each day in your classroom and your life. It's all about noticing the "lovely" moments in your day and giving them just a little extra focus to turn everyday encounters into a source of joy. Dive in to learn how a “lovely list” can help you cultivate a positive mindset!
Key Takeaways:
🌸 The Lovely List Unveiled: Discover Grace's latest tool that helps you notice and appreciate small acts of kindness and connection throughout the day.
🧠 Boost Your Mood with a Mental Game: Learn how creating a mental "lovely list" rewires your brain to focus on positive interactions, no journaling required.
✨ Find the Lovely in the Ordinary: Start seeing the beauty in everyday interactions—from a smile from a stranger to a helpful hand from a student.
💡 Be Someone's Lovely Moment: Challenge yourself to make someone else's day better by being a positive presence.
Why Listen?
If you’re feeling teacher overwhelmed during this busy time of year, this episode offers a grounding, uplifting practice that’s easy to implement. Just one change in how you notice the little things can help you feel more connected and present each day and transform the energy in your classroom.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
🎙️ Lunchbox Love Note Bonus Mini-Episode: Just like those little love notes slipped into your lunchbox, this episode is here to brighten your day with a virtual smile and a hug.
I hope you enjoy this jolt of inspiration and empowerment for teachers!
And if you appreciate my content, I humbly invite you to "pay it forward" and share this episode with a colleague. Everyone wins 💛
This one is all about the mindset of "enough." I promise you, you are enough, you do enough.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Beating the Sunday Scaries: 5 Game-Changing Tips for Teachers
That pit in your stomach on Sunday afternoon? You're not alone. As educators, we've ALL felt that weekend-ruining anxiety creeping in. But here's the truth: you don't have to live with the Sunday Scaries forever. In this episode, I'm sharing my battle-tested strategies that helped me transform my weekends from dread-filled to rejuvenating.
🎯 In This Episode You'll Discover:
💡 Why it's NOT "just teaching" - the surprising truth about Sunday anxiety across all professions
📚 The "Friday Power Hour" strategy that can completely transform your weekend peace of mind
📱 How your tech habits might be sabotaging your weekend (and the simple fixes you need)
🌟 The counter-intuitive approach to weekend plans that actually helps you rest better
⏰ My game-changing "Sunday at 7" method that freed me from constant work anxiety
🎁 BONUS TIP: The "Monday Micro-Joy" technique that makes the week ahead less daunting
💪 Key Takeaways:
Stop letting Sunday anxiety rob you of weekend joy and Monday energy. These practical strategies will help you set boundaries, protect your peace, and show up as your best self for your students.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Let me help you get ready to have the best parent-teacher conference season ever! 📝 While it can cause a lot of teacher stress, conferences are an important chance to connect with families. With some preparation, you can make conferences productive and positive!
In this episode I do do a deep dive into these top 5 strategies to help everything run smoothly.
🔑 First, leverage technology to take yourself out of the scheduling drama! It will also help you meet the needs of parents with inflexible schedules.
⏰ Second, manage expectations upfront. Tell parents how long conferences will be and remind them not to be surprised - they should already know if their child is struggling.
👩🏫 Third, involve students when you can with self-reflection exercises like "glow and grow." Get their perspective and involve them in the "triangle of success."
❌ Fourth, set boundaries. Have a schedule posted publicly so parents stick to their time slot. Get a witness if you anticipate tension. 👀
🤗 Fifth, imagine it's your child. Lead with the positives. Minimize jargon on forms. Make it a dialogue, not a monologue.
Bonus: Optics matter - tidy your room, dress professionally. Prepare materials in advance so you look authoritative. 💼
So stop dreading those conferences! With some prep, you'll crush it!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
In this empowering mini-episode, Grace examines how to deal with the aftermath of this week's election results. What if it didn't go the way you hoped? How do we rise above no matter what and find things that unite us with others, not divide us? How do we create a classroom community where everyone feels valued, safe, and included?
❤️ Her advice? "Be the source." Lead with love, not fear.
Take a quick time out to maybe have a mindset shift and a virtual hug to make you feel better about navigating the challenges of "keeping politics out of your classroom" when it is all anyone can think about this week.
Inspiration for teachers, school leadership, and anyone who is stressed by politics these days.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Are you nervous about setting boundaries at school because you're worried about pushback? You're not alone! In this episode, we tackle one of the most common concerns I hear from educators: "What happens when I start setting boundaries and people push back?" Whether it's passive-aggressive comments from colleagues or pressure from administrators, I'm sharing real strategies to help you stand firm with confidence and grace.
✨ In This Episode You'll Discover:
🔑 Why the person who complains most about your boundaries was likely benefiting most from their absence
🌟 The "secret sauce" for responding to administrator pushback (hint: it's all about the students!)
💪 How to handle passive-aggressive comments from colleagues with professionalism
🎯 Why setting boundaries is like having lines on the road - essential for everyone's safety
🌱 The truth about boundary-setting being a muscle that gets stronger with practice
🚀 Key Takeaways:
📝 Your basic rights as an educator (yes, you have them!)
🎭 How to respond to the dreaded "team player" guilt trip
💡 Why pushback isn't a sign you're doing something wrong - it's a sign of positive change
🌈 Real-world examples from my 20+ years in education
⏰ Professional ways to protect your time without burning bridges
💫 Remember: When you invest in healthy boundaries, everyone benefits - your students get a more energized, creative, and present teacher, and you get to have a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Don't forget to grab your ultimate guide to saying "No" ⬇️
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
👩🏫 Are you a teacher wrestling with the "stay or go" dilemma? This vulnerable and honest episode might be your roadmap!
Episode Description: In this deeply personal episode, experienced educator Grace Stevens shares her transformative journey of leaving full-time teaching, discovering unexpected challenges in her new life, and ultimately finding her way back to the classroom—but on her own terms.
Key Insights You'll Discover: 🔍 The REAL reasons teachers consider leaving their profession 💡 Surprising emotional and professional gaps created by stepping away from education 🌈 How flexibility doesn't always equal fulfillment 💪 Strategies for maintaining passion while protecting your well-being 🤝 The irreplaceable value of human connection in teaching
Raw Moment Alert: During a conference exercise, Grace discovered she scored incredibly low in "validation" and "purpose" - a revelation that sparked her return to teaching.
Pro Tip for Educators: Grace advocates for normalized sabbaticals and more flexible re-entry paths in education.
Memorable Quote: "Is my life easier without teaching? A hundred percent. But it is not as full."
Who Should Listen?
Teachers contemplating a career transition
Educators experiencing burnout
School leaders interested in teacher retention
Anyone seeking an authentic story of professional reinvention
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
This week's ENCORE🎙️ episode is for anyone who has ever wondered if they are taking our "drink to escape/cope" culture too far. As teachers, many of us joke about needing our "lesson planning juice," but some of us have a nagging feeling that maybe our life would be better without alcohol. Educators, this is a judgment-free zone. It's an invitation to honestly ask yourself if some of your habits may be fueling your teacher stress and anxiety, not relieving them.
Listen along to my conversation with sobriety coach Casey McGuire Davidson, where we discuss all things "sober curious" for educators, including:
The Allure and Cost of Teacher Drinking Culture 🍾
The Benefits of Going Dry for 30 Days 🏋️♀️
Making a Lifestyle Shift Through New Rituals 🧘♀️
Honoring Your Health and Reclaiming Time For You ⏰
Casey shares her wisdom, encouragement, and a great resource to help you get started on a 30-day alcohol-free experiment (try it and see how you feel and what you learn)
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Could YOU be unintentionally pushing your teaching colleagues away? In this eye-opening episode, we dive into the seemingly helpful phrases that might actually be damaging your workplace relationships. Whether you're a veteran teacher or new to the classroom, these common expressions could create tension without you even realizing it!
🎯 Key Takeaways:
🤐 The dangerous trap of "it could be worse" and why this well-meaning phrase actually invalidates your colleagues' experiences
🏆 Why saying "they never behaved that way for me" is secretly undermining your fellow teachers (and what to say instead!)
📊 The career-damaging impact of declaring "this is the worst class ever" and how it affects your professional reputation
👑 Veteran teacher alert: How "paying your dues" comments might be creating a toxic hierarchy in your school
🎓 New teacher pitfalls: The fine line between sharing fresh knowledge and coming across as a know-it-all
💡 Pro Tips:
Transform competitive misery into collaborative support
Learn the art of curiosity-based responses
Master the delicate balance of experience-sharing
✨ Remember: Awareness is the first step to positive change. These insights aren't meant to shame but to empower you to build stronger, more authentic relationships with your teaching community.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
In this heartfelt mini-episode, Grace shares a "Lunchbox Love Note" to help teachers navigate the dreaded Sunday Scaries. As winter break ends and the hustle of teaching looms, many educators feel a mix of anxiety, dread, and resentment. Grace reminds you that these feelings are normal—and that you’re not alone.
💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode:
🌈 Why it’s okay to feel conflicted about going back to school.
🛑 How to stop guilt from stealing your joy today.
❤️ A reminder that at least one student—and likely more—is eagerly waiting for the safe, calm, and structured environment you provide.
💪 Why you don’t need a “new year, new you” resolution—just a return to the joyful, unexhausted version of yourself.
✨ Teacher Takeaways:
You’re human, and your emotions are valid.
You became a teacher to make an impact, and that impact is felt deeply—even if it doesn’t always show.
Remember: students who test boundaries often need your calm, consistent care the most.
📌 Actionable Advice:
Give yourself permission to feel your feelings without guilt.
Focus on the joy and impact you bring to your students.
Ditch overwhelming resolutions—small, healthy habits are the key to feeling better.
And if you appreciate my content, I humbly invite you to "pay it forward" and share this episode with a colleague. Everyone wins 💛
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
🌟 Teacher Growth Reimagined: Why "Being" Beats "Doing" - A Fresh Take on New Year's Resolutions
Are you one of the 80% of teachers whose New Year's resolutions have already fallen apart? Don't worry - you're not alone! Let's ditch the "new year, new you" pressure and focus on something more powerful: identity-based growth. 🌱
Key sections of this episode:
Identity Over Actions 💫
Focus on WHO you want to be rather than WHAT you want to do
Your personality isn't fixed - you can intentionally shape it to align with your goals
Remember, "Your energy teaches more than your lesson plans." How you show up matters.
Creating Your Teacher Avatar 👩🏫
Visualize your ideal teaching self
Define how you want to show up in the classroom
Example attributes:
Prioritizing connection before correction
Bringing joy to learning
Building students up, not breaking them down
Maintaining healthy boundaries
The 3-Minute Morning Practice ⏰ That Can Transform Your Growth
Power Questions for Self-Reflection 🤔
"What would my ideal teacher-self do right now?"
"How do I want to be remembered?"
"Do my actions match my intentions?"
Remember: You don't need a "new you" - you just need to reconnect with the amazing educator you were before stress and overwhelm took over. Simple doesn't mean easy, but focusing on who you want to BE rather than what you want to DO creates lasting, meaningful change.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Finally! An educational podcast for your classroom that you and your students will enjoy AND helps with listening comprehension.
In this week's episode, I sat down with Jerry Kolber - the Emmy-nominated creator of Brain Games (yes, THAT Brain Games!) - and he shared an incredible FREE resource that's perfect for:
Building listening comprehension skills
Those tricky transition times
When you need a quality 15-minute activity
Getting kids excited about learning
Plus, he's offering all teachers FREE ad-free access to his wildly popular educational podcast "Who Smarted" (we're talking 50 million downloads!).
The best part? These episodes are insanely fun to listen to.
Other parts of this inspiring conversation include:
🍎 How Jerry went from struggling student to Emmy nominee 🍎 His experiences growing up with a mother who taught high school and was a school counselor 🍎 How Jerry took a chance and moved from reality TV producer to producing National Geographic's TOP series for science edutainment.
🎧 I loved my conversation with Jerry, and I bet you will, too!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
If there were one word separating joyful, impactful teachers from those stuck in overwhelm, and burnout, wouldn’t you want to know it? 🚀 Spoiler alert: It’s Empowerment. In this foundational episode, we’ll unpack how you can claim it, why it’s essential for thriving in your teaching career, and how it transforms every part of your life.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
The #1 Word You Need: Empowerment isn’t something given—it’s something you claim. Discover how this mindset shift changes everything.
3 Core Components of Empowerment:
Decision: Recognize the power of owning your choices.
Mindset: Ditch disempowering thoughts and embrace empowering questions.
Action: Learn actionable strategies to reclaim control over your time, energy, and passion.
The Burnout Connection: Understand how disempowerment drives burnout—and how to reverse it.
🎧 Listen Now: Don’t wait to feel empowered. Start reclaiming your time, energy, and passion today!
This episode is an introduction to a four-part series on the best new educator manual for success: The Empowered Teacher Handbook - get your copy today, and for a limited time, it will come with a free workbook!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
🎯 Transform Your Teaching with These Powerful Questions That Change Everything
Are you feeling overwhelmed in your classroom? Discover how asking the right questions can completely shift your teaching experience from stressed to empowered! In this episode, learn practical strategies to handle challenging student behavior, navigate workplace negativity, and maintain professional boundaries - all through the power of empowering questions.
🎧 Episode Highlights:
🧠 Why "why" questions drain your energy and what to ask instead
👩🏫 Real-world examples for handling challenging student behavior
🤝 Strategies for dealing with negative colleagues
📱 Smart solutions for parent communication
💪 Tools for maintaining professional boundaries with administration
💡 Key Takeaways:
Transform "why" questions into empowering "how" and "what" questions
Focus on unmet student needs instead of problematic behaviors
Redirect negative conversations with solution-focused thinking
Implement proactive communication strategies with parents
Set professional boundaries while maintaining positive relationships
🔑 Action Steps:
Choose one empowering question to practice this week
Identify positive collaborators on campus
Create proactive communication strategies
Practice the "validate and bounce" technique with negative situations
This episode is part two in my deep dive into concepts from the best new educator's manual: The Empowered Teacher's Toolkit.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
In this powerful episode, Grace Stevens addresses the growing concerns in education and provides practical strategies for teachers to maintain their influence and effectiveness, regardless of external challenges. ICE raids, potential elimination of the Dept. of Education ... student and teacher anxiety is at an all-time high. Grace talks about the importance and empowerment that come from focusing on what you can control, including the critical areas of classroom culture, explicitly teaching media literacy and critical skills, and navigating professional relationships with people who have very different politics and opinions.
Episode Highlights 🎯
Inside the Classroom
Building inclusive classroom communities that celebrate diversity
Teaching critical thinking and bias evaluation (including the CRAAP test framework)
Empowering students to fact-check and evaluate information sources
Creating stability through positive teacher-student relationships
Outside the Classroom
Managing your mental diet and information consumption
Balancing awareness with emotional wellbeing
Finding positive developments in education globally
Professional Relationships
Navigating partnerships with colleagues holding different viewpoints
Maintaining professionalism in polarized environments
Focusing on shared goals for student success
Key Takeaways 💡
"You are not just an educator; you are a force for stability, hope, and change. No policy, no funding cut, no political shift can take that power away from you."
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Teacher pop-quiz: If you could never wear a t-themed t-shirt again, would your wardrobe empty? In this powerful encore episode, we dive deep into the dangers of making teaching your entire identity and how to reclaim balance in your life. Whether you're struggling with burnout or feeling guilty about setting boundaries, this episode provides practical strategies to help you separate your worth from your work.
Key Takeaways:
Why wrapping your whole identity in teaching leads to burnout and relationship strain
The problem with attaching your self-worth to measurable outcomes in education
How to maintain your sense of self when transitioning out of teaching
Practical steps to create more balance and nurture non-teaching interests
🎯 Action Steps:
Create your personal role inventory beyond "teacher"
Schedule non-teaching activities with the same commitment as school obligations
Find 15 minutes daily for self-care and personal development
Conduct a simple time audit of teaching vs. non-teaching activities
💫 Quote of the Episode: "Teaching is a verb. It's what we do, not who we are. It's not an identity." Yep. You can quote me on that!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Ready to cut through the noise and focus on what really matters in education? Dr. David Franklin, creator of The Principal's Desk community (230,000+ educators strong!), shares his candid take on what schools need to leave behind in 2025 - and spoiler alert: teachers, you're going to want to hear this!
🌟 Episode Highlights:
1. 📊 Stop Blaming COVID - It's time to move past using COVID as the default explanation for challenges - Focus on current solutions and moving forward - Different regions had vastly different experiences - some schools only closed for 2 weeks
2. ❤️ Relationships vs. Rigor Debate - The false dichotomy needs to end - Good teaching has always included relationship building - Need to restore focus on professional expertise and academic excellence
3. 🎯 Quick-Fix SEL Solutions - $$ Multi-million dollar business pushing packaged solutions - Can't change school culture with 20-minute programs - Good teachers naturally create positive classroom cultures
4. 📝 Behavior Management Matrix - Clear, consistent consequences are crucial - Matrix helps everyone know what to expect - Supports both teachers and students - Creates safer learning environments
5. 🤖 AI in Education - Stop avoiding AI - it's here to stay - Need to teach responsible use - Prepare students for real-world applications - Similar to calculator and Google adoption
💡 Key Leadership Tips for Administrators: - Be visible on campus - Do supportive classroom walkthroughs (not evaluations) - Leave positive post-it notes with specific feedback - Let teachers take risks and innovate - Stop requiring lesson plan submissions - End restrictive dress codes
🔗 Connect with Dr. David Franklin: - Facebook: The Principal's Desk - Website: principalsdesk.org - Email: david@theprincipalsdesk.org - Book: "Advice from the Principal's Desk"
💪 Bottom Line: Creating positive school cultures isn't about quick fixes or checklist items - it's about supporting teachers as professionals and focusing on what truly impacts student learning.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
In this eye-opening episode, we dive into the science behind limiting beliefs and how they specifically show up in education and the lives of passionate teachers. Learn practical strategies to identify, challenge, and transform the unhelpful stories you tell yourself about teaching that keep you stuck in burnout cycles.
Key Points
🔍 Limiting beliefs are thoughts that restrict our potential and happiness
🧠 Our brains are pattern-seeking devices that filter information based on our beliefs
⚠️ We should evaluate beliefs on whether they're resourceful, not whether they're "true"
💡 With awareness comes choice - we can reframe unhelpful beliefs
🔄 Your brain will find evidence to confirm what you already believe (confirmation bias)
Common Teacher Limiting Beliefs
"I have to do it all to be a good teacher" → "I am most effective when I focus on what I do well"
"Saying no makes me selfish or unhelpful" → "Setting boundaries is an act of self-respect"
"If I rest, I'm lazy" → "Rest fuels my ability to show up as my best for students"
"If students/parents aren't happy, I'm failing" → "I can do my best, but I can't control others' feelings"
"It's my responsibility to fix everything" → "I can provide guidance and support, but I can't fix everything"
3-Step Process to Overcome Limiting Beliefs
Identify the limiting belief when it appears
Challenge it by seeking contrary evidence
Replace it with a more empowering belief
Quote to Remember
"We see the world not as it is, but as we are. Most of us see through the eyes of our fears, our limiting beliefs, and our false assumptions." - Robin Sharma
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Feeling overwhelmed by school testing season? Dread seeing students suffer from crippling test anxiety? This podcast episode for educators of all grades is for you!
🌟 Learn the one skill you should be teaching all year to ensure test-taking success!
💡 Discover how to create a calm, supportive testing environment in your room.
🎯 Shift the focus to what students can control and where you can find the "done for you" lesson plans to support you.
📣 Understand how to effectively communicate with parents to set students up for success without excessive pressure.
🥳 Learn the best strategies to boost student confidence and eliminate surprise testing stressors.
🎙️ You will find all this and more in this podcast episode for teachers of all grade levels to help your students overcome testing anxiety and perform at their best.
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
Teacher Self-Care: Setting Your Substitute Teacher Up for Success 🍎✨
Are you dragging yourself to school when sick because writing sub plans feels overwhelming? Discover how to set yourself (and your substitute teacher) up for success with these practical strategies from a former teacher-turned substitute!
Episode Highlights:
The Self-Care Connection: Why creating effective sub plans is essential for your wellbeing
Substitute Teaching Insights: Lessons learned from 5 months of subbing in various schools and grade levels
7 Key Strategies to ensure your classroom runs smoothly in your absence
The Self-Care Connection
Taking time off when needed is essential for teacher wellbeing, but many educators avoid absences because preparing for a substitute feels more stressful than working while ill. This episode reframes substitute preparation as a crucial self-care practice.
A Substitute's Perspective
After 20+ years of classroom teaching, Grace gained valuable insights from substitute teaching across:
Grade levels from TK through 11th grade
11-12 different schools
Various school cultures and resource levels
7 Strategies for Substitute Success
Create a template with your master schedule, important routines, and student information
Plan review activities rather than new content
Provide clear tech instructions or designate student tech helpers
Establish a buddy teacher system who can check in and support with challenging students
Set up incentives or consequences for student behavior during your absence
Have emergency activities available for unexpected situations
Document policies in writing regarding phones, computers, seating, and other classroom procedures
Final Thoughts
Remember: You are a human first and a teacher second. You deserve to take time off when needed without stressing about classroom chaos. With proper preparation, both you and your substitute can succeed!
Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life? Check out my signature on-demand course, Balance Your Teacher Life. You can go the self-study route or join a cohort with group coaching for Summer 2025.
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