(EP38) What Great Teachers and Principals Do Differently-with Todd Whitaker

While complaints about failing schools and negativity within the profession are common—sometimes even from teachers themselves—we’re diving into what keeps educators going. What fuels your passion when you walk into the classroom each day? In this episode, we explore the heart of teaching, the moments that inspire us, and the reasons we stay committed.

In this episode, we dive into an important topic for teachers considering a change: exploring new opportunities at other schools. One of the unique challenges of our profession is the short window of time available for interviewing and hiring. Returning guests Evelyn and James join us to share valuable insights into what school administrators are really looking for in candidates. Whether you're actively seeking a new position or just curious about the process, this conversation will give you the tools and perspective you need to stand out. 

Every teacher has faced that one unmotivated student—the one who just won’t engage, no matter what strategy you try. Parents have given up, and you're left wondering: is this my fault? Could a better teacher have reached them? In this episode, I challenge that mindset and address the excuses that often shapes today’s classrooms. Instead of getting frustrated, educators are encouraged to rise above the noise, do the best you can, reject the excuses, and get creative.

In this episode, I’m joined by the inspiring Dr. Todd Whitaker, one of the most sought-after motivational speakers in education. We dive into what truly sets great teachers and principals apart, exploring the habits, mindsets, and decisions that make a lasting impact on students and school culture.

As teachers, it’s easy to fall into the comparison trap—especially in the age of social media, where we see picture-perfect classrooms and educators who seem to have it all together. But constantly measuring ourselves against others isn’t always healthy, and yet, we do it anyway. In this episode, I share insights from Joshua Becker’s blog post "Stop Comparing Your Life. Start Living It," exploring why comparison holds us back and how we can shift our focus to living with purpose and contentment. Tune in for a refreshing perspective on embracing your unique teaching journey. Read the original blog post here: [http://www.becomingminimalist.com/stop-comparing-your-life-start-living-it]

For this episode, we're joined by Robert Wilder, author of Tales From The Teachers Lounge—a humorous and brutally honest collection of essays about what it really means to be a teacher today. After leaving a lucrative advertising career in New York, Robert took a teaching job at an alternative school in Santa Fe—and never looked back. Now, he shares his sharp-witted, laugh-out-loud insights as a teacher, parent, and former student, revealing the absurd, challenging, and rewarding realities of education.http://robertwilder.com/ 

It's my birthday month and that has put me in a reflective mood. I'm reminded that I'm getting older.  I have more years behind me than in front of me. This reflection has led me to look back over my long teaching career and offer some of what I have found to be effective for my classroom experience. 

For this episode, I dive into the tough decisions many teachers are facing—should you stay in education or explore new opportunities? With so many educators feeling uncertain or even fearful about making the perfect choice, we’re here to provide insight and support. Today, we’re joined by special guest Dr. James Hughey, who will share valuable guidance on navigating this crossroads and offer practical strategies for protecting your mental health as we close out the school year.  For blog posts, podcasts, and videos from Dr. Hughey visit pfpl.us.

For this episode, we’re diving into a video role-play that features a scenario we can all relate to—an angry student disrupting the learning environment. Classroom management is one of the biggest challenges educators face, and how we handle these moments can shape the entire atmosphere of our classrooms. As we watch this video together, let’s analyze the teacher’s response—was it effective? Could it have been handled differently?

With the rising cost of living and the immense challenges of the teaching profession here at home, many teachers are exploring opportunities abroad; seeking a fresh start where their work is better respected and their stress levels are lower. One popular destination is South Korea, known for its appreciation of educators and unique cultural experiences. We’ll be speaking with a young teacher currently working in South Korea, who shares valuable insights into the pros and cons of teaching overseas.