Episode 381: Monday Mindset: The Truth About “Feeling Behind” (And Why You’re Probably Ahead)

Coming back from break can feel overwhelming—for you and your students. In today’s Teaching Middle School ELA podcast episode, we’re sharing the very first writing routine you should teach when you return, and why this one simple shift makes everything feel easier. If you’re looking for a calm, confidence-building way to reset your writing block and set the tone for the weeks ahead, this episode is for you. 🎧✨ 

It’s our first podcast episode of the year, and we’re starting with a message so many of us need right now. If you’ve been stepping into the new year feeling behind, this Monday Mindset is for you. We’re talking about why that feeling shows up, what it really means, and how you might actually be far more ahead than you think. A grounding, encouraging reset to kick off the year. 🎧✨ 

Today’s episode is a special one because we’re welcoming back a familiar face—our very own Pat from the EB Team 🎉You’ve heard Pat before, and since then, we’ve gotten so many questions about how EB resources actually come to life. So today, we’re pulling back the curtain. From the first spark of an idea, to collaboration, revisions, teacher feedback… and yes—the step at the very end that almost no one guesses 👀If you’ve ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes at EB (or why our resources feel so thoughtfully built), this episode is for you. Let’s dive in! 🎧USC Program mentioned: https://rossier.usc.edu/programs/find-compare-programs/equity-educators-certificateFor any comments or suggestions, please message us on Instagram @ebacademics

Today’s Monday Mindset episode is your gentle permission slip to skip the pressure of traditional New Year’s resolutions and try something that actually works. We’re sharing a simple, joyful shift that helps you create a year that feels better, flows easier, and supports the version of you you’re becoming.If you’re ready for a fresh start without the overwhelm, this episode is your cozy little boost of clarity and encouragement. Tune in and step into the new year with intention — not stress. 💛✨

Looking for simple, high-impact routines that make teaching feel lighter and your classroom run smoother? In today’s episode, Caitlin shares five of her favorite practical routines that help create calm beginnings, peaceful endings, predictable pacing, better student behavior, and effortless paper management.These are routines you can implement tomorrow and use for the rest of the semester to save time, reduce stress, and help your students thrive.In this episode, you’ll learn:How a “Silent Start” routine sets the tone for the entire classA simple end-of-class reading ritual that makes transitions peacefulThe 15-Minute Classroom Management system that students can run for youA paper turn-in routine that eliminates missing work and confusionHow to use a daily timed agenda to improve pacing and structurePerfect for teachers heading into a new semester or looking to reset their classroom routines with confidence and clarity.✨ LINKS MENTIONED:Hanging Pocket Folders → https://www.amazon.com/Godery-Signatory-Cascading-Organizer-Classroom/dp/B075DCTJVR/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?...YouTube Video 15-Minute Classroom Management Strategy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZkdeEZL8rw

In today’s Monday Mindset, is your cozy little reminder that winter break alone won’t magically refill your cup—unless you do one simple, powerful thing. We’re diving into the mindset shift that helps you feel lighter, calmer, and genuinely restored long before break even begins.If you’re craving clarity, breathing room, and a gentler pace this season, this episode is your warm nudge in the right direction. Tune in and treat yourself to a few minutes of calm and encouragement. 💛

In today’s episode, we’re talking about the uncomfortable truth most teachers don’t want to hear: skipping planning doesn’t save time—it drains it. When you plan day-to-day, you’re making hundreds of decisions while already exhausted, and that’s what’s stealing your energy, your evenings, and your peace of mind.  You’ll also learn how batch planning works, why it’s flexible (not rigid), and how a few focused hours can give you back your nights and weekends. This episode isn’t about doing more.It’s about planning smarter—so teaching feels predictable, peaceful, and sustainable again. Grab Your Free Batch Planning Tips Here: https://www.ebteacher.com/free-10-tips-for-Batch-Planning

Today’s Monday Mindset episode is a powerful reminder that being an incredible teacher doesn’t mean sacrificing your evenings, weekends, or well-being. The best teachers aren’t the ones who stay the latest—they’re the ones who protect their energy, set boundaries, and show up refreshed and present for their students.Tune in for a mindset shift that gives you permission to step away… without guilt. 💛

Today on the Teaching Middle School ELA podcast, we’re joined by our very own Membership Manager, Genevieve Chavez, who’s sharing the incredible story of how one teacher got her most reluctant writers begging to revise—yes, even right before winter break!It’s an inspiring, practical, feel-good episode you won’t want to miss. Tune in and let Genevieve’s insights spark new ideas for your own writers! ✨Gingerbread House Activity: https://www.ebteacher.com/gingerbread-house

In today’s Monday Mindset episode, we’re reminding ourselves that rest isn’t a reward—it’s a necessity. When we intentionally slow down, we give our minds and bodies the space they need to reset, refocus, and show up stronger. This week, choose rest with purpose and watch how it transforms your energy, clarity, and joy.