Real Teacher Talk

Taking a Break Jan 01, 2023

Hey there. I wanna thank you for being such a loyal listener to The Real Teacher Talk podcast. We're going on a brief hiatus, but I'd still love to connect with you.
The best way to do that is over on Instagram at Easy Teaching Tools, our website, EasyTeachingTools.com, or by Email.
And the bonus of that is when you sign up, you'll get tips to get organized with your lesson planning by going to EasyTeachingTools.com/LessonPlanningPod
I can't wait to continue collaborating on those three different platforms.

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

How to Get Your Life Back with Sabrena Brooks Dec 26, 2022

Are you ready to get your life back?
As we look forward to all things 2023, This week we decided to drop back to our very first interview on Real Teacher Talk, I sat down with Sabrena Brooks, a busy teacher and mama to talk about how she balances school with her life and the tools she uses to make it happen.
Sabrena Brooks is a mom of two active boys with a baby girl on the way. She is a lover of camping and music, and wife to a special education para-educator by day and chef by night. Her teaching career includes kindergarten for one year, 1st grade for five years, and kindergarten ESL for one year. She has a master's degree in Teaching and Learning and was the distance learning teacher for 1st grade during the 2020-2021 school year.
Sabrena realized she needed help when she was staying at school every night until 6:30 and showing back up by 7 in the morning. She had no semblance of balance in her life. That’s when she joined my program Easy Organization Tools where I show teachers how to consistently leave school prepared at contract time so that they can be more fully present in their life.
Topics We Cover in This Episode:

What Sabrena’s life looked like before the program
Sabrena's experience in the Easy Organization Tools program
How her life changed after she implemented what she learned
How the program alleviated the teacher/mom guilt
How Sabrena uses the tools in the program in her home as well

The organization tools Sabrena learned made all of the difference. She went from being a stressed-out, overworked teacher with no work-life balance to being a happy mom and teacher. She’s now able to be there for her kids and be fully present in her home life.
If you are ready to have a better year than you had last year and finally get your life back the way Sabrena did, make sure to join the 3 PM Teacher Training. You’ll learn how to consistently leave school prepared and on time without bringing work home!
Resources Mentioned:
Follow Sabrena on Instagram
Join the 3 PM Teacher Training
Additional Resources:

Follow the Podcast

Follow Along on Facebook

Follow Along on Instagram

Are you following my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today so you don’t miss any future episodes! Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

The Sunday Blues Dec 18, 2022

Some people call them the Sunday blues. Some people call them the Sunday Scaries. Others just flat-out say, “I am dreading going to work tomorrow.”
Whatever you call it, if you’ve had this experience, you aren’t alone! All sorts of people, teachers included, can feel this way on Sunday evenings.
Although this feeling is normal, I am passionate about helping teachers enjoy their lives both inside and outside of the classroom! In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I’m chatting about three simple things you can do this week to alleviate the Sunday blues.
Resources Mentioned:
My blog post about the Sunday night blues
Additional Resources:
Follow the Podcast
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Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Navigating Student Loan Debt with Meagan Landress McGuire Dec 11, 2022

If the thought of student loan debt makes you want to crawl into a hole and hide, this episode is for you!
Student loan debt is overwhelming for anyone, but especially for chronically-underpaid teachers. If you’re in the boat of feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone.
In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I sat down with student loan expert, Meagan Landress McGuire to discuss how to get started tackling this daunting topic. We chat about how to navigate between your different loan forgiveness options, what the new forgiveness program could mean for you, and how to possibly get a refund on loans you’ve already repaid. She also mentions how to get more support if you’d rather just hand things over to someone else!
Teaching is hard enough without having to add a whole other burden to your plate. My hope for this episode is that you feel supported and less alone when it comes to thinking through student loan debt and forgiveness options! I’m always cheering you on!

Resources Mentioned:
Where to connect with student loan experts like Meagan
Student Loan Planner Youtube channel
Student Loan Planner podcast
Blog category about student loans for teachers
Additional Resources:
Follow the Podcast
Follow Along on Facebook
Follow Along on Instagram

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Toxic Teacher Environments Dec 04, 2022

Last week we chatted about how to handle it when you’re struggling with one specific coworker or team member.
Today, we’re going to go a little bit deeper and discuss what to do if the environment you’re in becomes too toxic. Maybe it’s too much negativity, or maybe your environment is swinging the other way to toxic positivity!
Cattiness, bullying, gossiping, and retaliation are the kinds of things I’m referring to in this episode.
In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I’m sharing five tips for how to handle it when you’re in the thick of it, and some advice for how to move forward. As difficult as it can seem, when you’re in a toxic working environment, you’re in the perfect position to really think about what you want your next steps to be.
I can’t wait to connect with you over on Instagram after you listen to the episode!
Additional Resources:
Follow the Podcast
Follow Along on Facebook
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Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Dealing with Challenging Team Members at School Nov 27, 2022

Do you have a coworker at your school that just really irritates or bothers you? I’m not talking about the coworkers that are outright mean or offensive, but the sort of coworker that just gets under your skin.
I bet you have at least one person coming to your mind! We all have them. It can definitely be a challenge working with someone who you struggle to get along with, but many times we have to!
In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I’m sharing six things you can do to help you deal with those difficult team members. I talk about things I’ve tried that have worked for me, what to do if the work environment becomes too toxic, and ways to recenter if you’re feeling challenged or triggered by a coworker’s behavior.
Resources Mentioned:
www.easyteachingtools.com/fallpurgepodcast
Additional Resources:
Follow the Podcast
Follow Along on Facebook
Follow Along on Instagram

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

My Hardest Year Yet Nov 20, 2022

I’m doing things a bit differently this episode, and I’m opening up about the hardest teaching year I’ve had so far in my career.
I explain the different factors that worked together to make it a perfect storm, and why I want to go back to the classroom with a refreshed and new perspective.
In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I get vulnerable and share things that went on my last year of teaching (so far) both in my personal life and my professional life that contributed to it being a terrible year. I talk about some things I would have done differently, and share what I’ve learned since taking my leave of absence. A lot has changed in my life since that year!
While difficult years are simply a reality for anyone, I want to remind my listeners that these challenges are temporary and it won’t always be this hard.
Additional Resources:
Follow the Podcast
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*Content warning relating to infertility/pregnancy loss.

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Sassy Guardians Nov 13, 2022

We aaaaaaaall have them in our classes. THOSE parents. You know exactly which parents I’m talking about.
The ones who email you at all hours of the day and night, the ones who question every single decision you make, the ones displeased with every paper sent home. Dealing with sassy parents and guardians can be super stressful. But, it doesn’t have to be!
In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I dive into this topic and discuss where this behavior might be coming from, how to see these parents and guardians through a different lens, and how to navigate tricky conversations. I also chat about simple ways to adapt what you’re already doing to clear up potential misunderstandings, and how to build trust.
While sassy parents and guardians can be a challenge, the families of our students are a critical piece of the puzzle for student success! When we can successfully navigate these relationships, we help set our students up for a positive school experience.
Resources Mentioned:
What Teachers Wish Parents Knew blog post
Additional Resources:
Follow the Podcast
Follow Along on Facebook
Follow Along on Instagram

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Make Parent Volunteers Work for You Nov 06, 2022

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by parents or caregivers offering to volunteer in your classroom?
I know that lots of schools don’t have parent volunteers, but for those that do, it can become a lot of work to prepare for them! If you don’t know where to start, this is the perfect episode for you.
In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I chat about how to make parent volunteers work for you! I discuss how to utilize parent volunteers, how to include parents who want to volunteer but can’t come into the classroom, how to create systems so volunteers don’t have to interrupt to get started, and even what to do if you don’t have parent or caregiver volunteers!
Everything I mention I learned from experience. I’ve worked in a school with no parent volunteers, a school with an overwhelming amount of parent volunteers, and a school in between. Whatever your situation, this episode is packed full of ideas to help you streamline the process, so that volunteers work for you, not make more work for you!
Resources Mentioned:
Parent Volunteer Editable Forms
Conference Form

Additional Resources:
Follow the Podcast
Follow Along on Facebook
Follow Along on Instagram

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

How to Use Data to Improve your Classroom with Dr. Matthew Courtney Oct 30, 2022

As a teacher, have you ever asked (or been tempted to ask) WHY are we doing this?!
If so, you aren’t alone. Collecting and analyzing data in the classroom can give us answers to why we’re doing certain things and give us a road map for what to do next.

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I sat down with Dr. Matthew Courtney to discuss all things data! We chat about how to use data to solve problems in our classrooms, how to use the data you’re already collecting, and the mindset shift that needs to happen around data collection in education as a whole. We also discuss realistic ways for classroom teachers to get involved in policy change!
Dr. Matthew Courtney specializes in using data and research to support schools and teachers as they work to improve teaching and learning. As an educator, researcher, and policy maker, he focuses his efforts on building capacity in teachers and leaders to perform deep analyses of learning. When educators are faced with persistent problems of practice, he shows them how to tap into the existing research literature to solve their problems and to apply research methodologies to rigorously test their solutions. Dr. Courtney is dedicated to helping the education profession fully self-actualize into an evidence-based profession that relies on deep thinking, collaboration, and a joint commitment towards advancing scientific knowledge of teaching and learning in the field.
If you loved Dr. Courtney’s tips and want to learn more, make sure to head to his website!
Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Matthew Courtney’s Website

Follow Dr. Matthew Courtney on Twitter

Watch Dr. Matthew Courtney on YouTube
Additional Resources:

Follow the Podcast

Follow Along on Facebook

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Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Streamlining the data collection process with Rebekah Poe Oct 23, 2022

Data collection is a super important part of teaching, but so many teachers dread it! I promise you don’t have to.
There are ways to make the process simple, effective, and meaningful. I sat down with Rebekah Poe to chat about how to streamline the data collection process.
Rebekah Poe is an award-winning special education teacher and national teaching conference presenter. She has over a decade of experience in special education. As an educator, Rebekah believes all behavior is communication and all feelings are valid, and she focuses on providing equitable education and establishing connections to students of all ability levels in an inclusive setting.
In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, we discuss tips and tricks for how to streamline the data collection process, suggestions for collaborating with other team members to best support students, and ways to differentiate between academic and behavioral data collection.
Resources Mentioned:

Rebekah’s quick reference guide

Rebekah’s Instagram

Rebekah’s website
Additional Resources:

Follow the Podcast

Follow Along on Facebook

Follow Along on Instagram

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Successful Parent or Caregiver Conferences Oct 16, 2022

If the thought of parent or caregiver conferences makes you feel a little sweaty, you’re not alone! What is it about talking to other adults that can be so scary?

I learned a lot during my time in the classroom, mostly from making my own mistakes.
So, in this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I am sharing my favorite simple tips and tricks to make your conferences run smoothly and be a little less stressful.
I share how to make sure caregivers know you’re on the same team, ways to ensure equitable and meaningful conferences for all families, and how to help make sure families stay focused on the goals. Preparing for conferences doesn’t have to keep you up at night worrying - I promise!
Resources Mentioned:

Parent Conference Forms
Free Conference Form for Parent Feedback
Additional Resources:

Follow the Podcast

Follow Along on Facebook

Follow Along on Instagram

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Quiet Quitting isn't happening, but this is... Oct 09, 2022

Have you heard the phrase “quiet quitting” and wondered how it related to teaching?

Quiet quitting is a hot topic right now. It’s the idea that people are “giving up” or “quitting” on their jobs without actually resigning.

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I tackle this topic and whether or not I think it actually relates to teachers! I discuss what quiet quitting is, how to do more than the bare minimum and only work your contract hours, and how to set up systems to set yourself up for success!

Resources Mentioned:

Gallup Article about Quiet Quitting

Parent / Guardian Volunteer Resource

Episode About Dealing with Teacher Guilt
Episode about Saying No
Additional Resources:

Follow the Podcast

Follow Along on Facebook

Follow Along on Instagram

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Creating a Classroom Environment where All Students Thrive with Johnny Tiersma Oct 02, 2022

Do you ever wonder how you can create a positive classroom environment and still get everything done that needs to get done?

If so, you’re in good company. But trust me, it’s possible!

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I sat down with Mr. Johnny Tiersma, a fellow San Diego area teacher, to talk about how to create a classroom environment where all students can thrive! We discuss what stops teachers from having fun, how to use humor to create a positive classroom environment, and why this type of environment is so important!

Johnny Tiersma has been involved in education for over 16 years, primarily as a classroom teacher in grades 6 to 8. He has also been a middle school interim principal, an instructional designer for higher education, and an adjunct professor of educational technology. Currently, he is teaching sixth grade in the Cardiff School District in San Diego. Johnny has a passion for students and has spent his career pursuing a classroom environment where students are able to flourish. His goal is to use his connection with students to help them feel safe, valuable, and ready to learn.

If you loved Johnny’s tips and want to support him by purchasing his book, make sure to head to his website for more!
Resources Mentioned:

If I Were the Teacher book
If I Were the Teacher on Amazon

Follow Johnny on Twitter

Grab your ticket for Refresh and Recharge
Additional Resources:

Follow the Podcast

Follow Along on Facebook

Follow Along on Instagram

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

3 Tips for a Successful Sub Day with Kelsey Sorenson Sep 25, 2022

Does the mere thought of preparing to have a substitute in your classroom make you feel sick to your stomach?

If so, you aren’t alone!

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I sat down with Kelsey Sorenson of Wife, Teacher, Mommy to talk about how to successfully prepare for a sub day! We discuss what stops teachers from planning ahead for inevitable sub days, how to realistically take the time to plan ahead, and what exactly needs to be included to make your day away a success.

Kelsey Sorenson is a former third-grade teacher and substitute teacher. She is now a homeschool mom to 3 kids and owner of Wife Teacher Mommy, where she and her team serve Pre-K through 6th-grade teachers. Wife Teacher Mommy has been featured on We are Teachers, Teachers pay Teachers, Jane, Etsy, Food Network, CBC, Fox, and NBC. Kelsey and her team have helped hundreds of thousands of educators cut down planning time and balance the many roles in their lives with her time-saving resources, blogs, teacher life coaching program, Educate & Rejuvenate events, and Wife Teacher Mommy: The Podcast. Kelsey is addicted to Coke Zero and loves reading and listening to audiobooks.

If you loved Kelsey’s tips and want to learn more from her, make sure to head to her website for more! You can also follow her on Instagram to stay up to date with all of her tips and tricks!
Resources Mentioned:

Check out Kelsey’s website
Grab Kelsey’s FREE Sub Planning Starter Kit
Listen to Kelsey’s podcast
Follow Kelsey on Instagram
Join the Classroom Purge
Additional Resources:

Follow the Podcast

Follow Along on Facebook

Follow Along on Instagram

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Can We Bring Fun Back Into the Classroom? with Matt Halpern Sep 18, 2022

Do you ever feel like it’s impossible to have fun in the classroom anymore? There are often so many “other” things to care about, that fun can be the last thing on our minds.

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I sat down with Matt Halpern to talk about why it’s a challenge to have fun in the classroom, why fun in the classroom is important, and how to bring fun back!

Matt is a joyful educator who draws on almost two decades of experience as a classroom teacher and literacy coach. He is passionate about making classrooms child-centered and putting the effort and work of students at the forefront. His love for teaching social-emotional skills and literacy often combines as he is always looking for new ways to help others become the best versions of themselves. A fierce advocate for social justice and equity in classrooms, Matt leverages the power of literacy and community to empower children. Matt is the author of the forthcoming A Teacher's Guide to Interactive Writing.

If you loved Matt’s tips and want to learn more from him, make sure to head to his website for more! You can also follow him on Instagram to stay up to date with all of his tips and tricks!
Resources Mentioned:

Check out Matt’s website

Follow Matt on Instagram

Follow Matt on Twitter

Join the Classroom Purge
Additional Resources:

Follow the Podcast

Follow Along on Facebook

Follow Along on Instagram

Are you following my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today so you don’t miss any future episodes! Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and Spotify! I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast! Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Simplifying your Centers with Farrah Henley Sep 10, 2022

Have you ever felt like your centers are a little overwhelming?

Sometimes the systems in our classroom are way more complicated than they need to be, and we need to take a step back and simplify so that we can do our jobs more efficiently.

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I sat down with Farrah Henley to talk about the number one mistake that teachers make when it comes to their centers and the steps they can take to start simplifying.

Farrah is a veteran preschool and elementary educator with a love for simple systems that make teaching easier for educators. Farrah has been in the education field since 1997 and has served as a classroom teacher, homeschooling mom, teacher mentor, and coach and has even taught online classes for students.

Currently, she helps K-5 teachers master their math and literacy centers with her Easy Centers Framework™ and Learning Centers Made Easy™ system.

Tune in to hear the common struggles that teachers have with their centers and Farrah’s top three tips for simplifying your centers today.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode21

Resources Mentioned:

Three Steps To Organized Centers freebie: https://learn.farrahhenley.com/organizeyourcenters-blog

Follow Farrah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farrahhenleyeducation/

Check out Farrah’s website: https://farrahhenley.com/

Join the Classroom Purge: https://courses.easyteachingtools.com/classroom-purge-summer-22-EOT

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Why Every Teacher Needs a Timer for Themselves Sep 03, 2022

Do you have any specific tools that you use in the classroom to help you stay organized?

As teachers, there’s so much to get done each day. It can get overwhelming fast if you don’t have a good classroom system in place that will help you stay organized and on task.

Today on Real Teacher Talk, I am sharing one of my favorite tools that I used in the classroom that really helped me get things done.

If you’re in Easy Organization Tools or you took my 3 P.M. Teacher training, you probably already know what I’m talking about- the Time Timer! I know we have access to timers already on our phones and things, but this one is my absolute favorite to use in the classroom.

This timer is a fabulous visual for you and your students because it counts backward. You can set it up for a certain amount of time and it helps you and your students stay on task and get things done.

Tune in to this episode to learn more about why this timer is perfect for teachers and the four ways to use it with your students so that you can stay on task and start checking things off of your to-do list.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode20

Resources Mentioned:

Join the Classroom Purge: https://courses.easyteachingtools.com/classroom-purge-summer-22-EOT

Get the Time Timer: https://amzn.to/2TT0KwV

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Classroom Management without a Clip Chart with Allie Szczecinski from Miss Behavior Aug 27, 2022

Are you worried about classroom management this year?

I have heard from a lot of teachers that they are a bit worried about heading back to the classroom because of how rough the last couple of years were with all of the classroom behavior issues.

There have been a lot of questions about how to manage behavior using the latest best practices so I invited my friend Allie Szczecinski from Miss Behavior onto the show to share some of her best tips for effectively managing behavior in your classroom.

Allie is a wife, mom, special educator, children's book author, and social-emotional learning coach. She creates resources with social-emotional learning and behavior focus on Teachers Pay Teachers and runs The Social Script Library, a monthly membership. With a master's degree and over 12 years of professional experience, she is a go-to resource for educators everywhere!

We all know that clip charts aren’t really recommended anymore, but there are things that you can do with your students to steer them away from behavior issues and encourage them to make the right decisions with positive reinforcement.

Tune in to hear Allie’s advice on what to expect with behavior this year, classroom management strategies, making time for social-emotional learning, and so much more.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode19

Resources Mentioned:

Free Emotional and Behavioral resources: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5f04ae5eba80b7002607331a

Check out Allie’s website: https://www.missbehaviorblog.com/

Follow Allie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_missbehavior/

Check out Allie’s TpT store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Allie-Szczecinski-With-Miss-Behavior

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

5 Tips to Start the School Year Organized with Michelle Emerson from Pocketful of Primary Aug 20, 2022

Are you feeling stressed out at the thought of heading back to school?

Many teachers are feeling even more overwhelmed about heading back to the classroom than normal this year. There is just so much to do and they are already tired. If this sounds like you, you’re not alone.

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I sat down with my friend Michelle Emerson from Pocketful of Primary to talk about five easy tips that you can use to start the new school year off organized.

Michelle Emerson taught 2nd grade and 4th grade for seven years and now supports teachers around the world by creating digital teacher resources, producing educational videos for teachers on her YouTube channel, Pocketful of Primary, and sharing productivity tips on her podcast, Teaching to the TOP.

She believes all teachers should feel empowered by their profession instead of overwhelmed and seeks to help educators create a work-life balance through her tips and strategies.

Michelle has so many amazing ideas for getting organized and making things much easier on yourself when you head back to the classroom. Make sure to tune in to hear her five tips including why checklists are so important, low-prep activities to have on hand, why less is more, the benefits of planning ahead, and so much more!

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode18

Resources Mentioned:

Follow Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pocketfulofprimary/

Check out Michelle’s website: https://www.pocketfulofprimary.com/

Get Michelle’s Back to School Freebies: https://www.pocketfulofprimary.com/back-to-school-read-aloud-activities-freebies

Subscribe to Pocketful of Primary on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pocketfulofprimary

Listen to the Teaching to the Top podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teaching-to-the-top/id1493099649

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Thrive Not Survive with Katie Knight Aug 13, 2022

Are you looking forward to the new school year?

This is a topic that so many teachers are struggling with right now. School is starting back up and teachers just aren’t looking forward to it because they’re still trying to recover from last year.

If this sounds like you, you’re going to love this episode of Real Teacher Talk. I sat down with my good friend Katie Knight from Teacher To The Core to talk about some things that you can do if you’re feeling like this so you can go from just surviving your job as a teacher to actually thriving.

Teaching has always been hard, but it feels like it has been a whole new level of hard lately. We have had to learn entirely new ways of teaching, face more demands than ever, handle mean teachers, and so much more. It’s natural that teachers aren’t eager to dive back in.

It doesn’t have to be that way though. There are things that you can do to bring the joy back in teaching so that you can start thriving in the classroom and in your personal life. You are more than just a teacher and you deserve to embrace all those other parts of you, too.

Tune in to learn Katie’s best tips and strategies for how to make it happen.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode17

Resources Mentioned:

Register for Refresh and Recharge: https://courses.easyteachingtools.com/refresh-and-recharge

Check out Katie’s website: https://www.teachertothecore.blogspot.com/

Get the Check Your PLAN freebie: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Check-your-PLAN-4673593

Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teachertothecore_katie_knight/

Follow Katie on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/teacher2thecore/

Connect with Katie on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeacherToTheCore

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Teachers Have Lives Too Aug 06, 2022

Have you ever felt like we are held to higher expectations than others as teachers?

This is a common issue among teachers because guess what? We have lives too! I have taught for years and talked to teachers all around the world. There seems to be a consensus on the fact that teachers just aren’t respected the way that they should be. Not only are they feeling like they aren’t respected, but they also don’t feel valued, and it feels like they are being taken advantage of.

We are expected to give our entire lives over for the outcome. But we are more than just teachers. We are human beings with goals, hobbies, families, and lives outside of the classroom. We should be able to live and enjoy our lives outside of the classroom without all the judgment about what we do.

The higher standard that teachers are held to is quite baffling at times. It differs from state to state, but some are so strict that it's just not fair to those teachers at all.

Tune in to this episode to hear more of my thoughts on the expectations that are placed on teachers and my thoughts on things we can do to push back against these unrealistic and unfair standards.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode16

Resources Mentioned:

Get your Refresh and Recharge ticket: https://www.easyteachingtools.com/refreshandrecharge

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Maximize Your Work Day Jul 30, 2022

Are you making the most of your workday? There are so many things to get done each day that it can feel impossible to get it all done and leave on time.

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, we are discussing how to maximize your time so that you are more efficient and effective.

There are five things that I used to do every day inside my classroom that helped me make the most of my day. These tips are things that I teach inside of my program Easy Organization Tools so teachers can prioritize what’s really important, not do everything themselves. This helps them to get the important things done and not stay past contract time.

You don’t have a lot of time during the day to get things done, but that doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your free time to do it all after your students go home for the day.

Tune in to hear my top tips for things like organization, grading, administrative tasks, getting student help, and so much more so that you can maximize your time during the day and have more time to enjoy your life outside the classroom.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode15

Resources Mentioned:

Get your ticket to Refresh and Recharge: https://courses.easyteachingtools.com/refresh-and-recharge

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

How Do You Go Back to Teach When You Don’t Want To? with Dr. Christine Li Jul 23, 2022

Are you feeling stressed or burned out?

I have heard from so many teachers that even though it’s summertime right now, they don’t have the energy for anything because they are just so burned out. This makes sense because unfortunately, so many teachers aren’t being supported or respected right now, so they don’t even want to go back to teaching in the fall.

I hear you. I know it’s hard, so in this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I sat down with Dr. Christine Li to talk about how you can get inspired to go back to teaching.

Dr. Christine Li has been working as a New York-based clinical psychologist for the past 20 years. More recently, she has taken her work online as the “Procrastination Coach.” She helps people who are struggling with underperforming at work and at home to work smoothly and with high levels of productivity.

Her unique coaching process is a blend of mindset strategy, time and emotion management tips, and a deep belief in the power we each have when we treat ourselves with love and good self-care. Dr. Li is the author of the book “5-Minute Self-Discipline Exercises: Stay Motivated, Cultivate Good Habits, and Achieve Your Goals” and the host of the podcast “Make Time for Success.”

Tune in to learn more about how you can incorporate things like self-care and meditation into your life, ditch the guilt, and remember your “why” so you can get your inspiration to teach back.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode14

Resources Mentioned:
Register for Refresh & Recharge: https://www.easyteachingtools.com/refreshandrecharge

Check out Dr. Li’s website: https://www.procrastinationcoach.com

Access Dr. Li’s resource library: https://procrastinationcoach.mykajabi.com/freelibrary

Listen to the Make Time For Success podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1548504774

Join The Procrastination Coach Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/procrastinationcoach

Connect with Dr. Li on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/procrastinationcoach/

Follow Dr. Li on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@procrastinationcoach

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

How to Get Planned Before the Weekend Jul 16, 2022

Do you spend your weekends prepping for the next week of school?

So many teachers spend Sunday night planning for the following week and then running to the copy machine early Monday morning to make copies for the day. If you're guilty of this, this episode of Real Teacher Talk is for you because I’m sharing my top tips for getting planned before the weekend so you can actually enjoy your days off.

This topic is a pretty big deal for teachers, so it’s something that I go into more detail on in my Easy Organization Tools program. However, I grabbed the most important tips from there to share with you so that you can get out of this rut.

I know what it feels like to spend hours planning and prepping. I didn’t want to use my weekend planning for the following week either, and when I learned that other teachers do that, I wanted to be able to help and make it a little easier for them.

Tune in to hear my top organization tips that will help you plan for the following week without cutting into your well-deserved weekend.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode13

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

The Funny Parts of Teaching with Mr. D Jul 09, 2022

It’s no secret that teaching has been hard the last couple of years.

Of course, it was challenging before then, but it’s been especially tough lately. Teachers are stressed out and sadly, struggling to smile through it all and focus on the parts of teaching that they love.

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I sat down with Joe Dombrowski, also known as Mr. D, to talk about the funny parts of teaching that bring us joy as well as how he’s using his platform to bring awareness to issues that teachers face.

Joe Dombrowski took the world by storm in 2017 with a viral April Fools’ Day spelling test prank that landed him multiple appearances on the Ellen DeGeneres show.

Don't get it twisted though! It takes at least 20 years to be an overnight sensation! Joe has been doing stand-up comedy since he was eight years old in his third-grade talent show. He's never stopped! Since Joe's rise to fame, he has been traveling the globe with his stand-up comedy which often highlights his crazy life as an elementary school teacher.

Tune in to this inspiring conversation to learn more about Mr. D’s experience teaching, teacher burnout, the future of education, challenges he’s faced as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and even some funny teaching stories!

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode12

Resources Mentioned:

Sign up for the 3 PM Teacher Training: https://courses.easyteachingtools.com/3pmsummer22

Check out Mr. D’s website: https://mrdtimes3.com/

Follow Mr. D on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrdtimes3

Follow Mr. D on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrdtimes3

Follow Mr. D on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mrdtimes3

Follow Mr. D on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCULlREa7lPKeU8Vd1RWWOuw

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Is It Possible to Become a 3 PM Teacher? with Melissa Whitlock Jul 02, 2022

The last couple of years has been a challenge for teachers, to say the least. So many things have been thrown on our plate and it’s…overwhelming. We have been asked to do so many things, and teachers are starting to leave in droves.

But what if you don’t want to leave the profession because you really do love teaching? The trick is to get organized so that you can actually enjoy teaching again. In today’s episode of Real Teacher Talk, I am joined by Melissa Whitlock, a teacher who took my program, Easy Organization Tools, and is now able to leave the classroom at contract time more consistently.

Melissa is a first-grade teacher and grade chair in Johns Creek, Georgia. She’s been teaching for 9 years. She’s a mom of 2 (an almost 4-year-old daughter and a 3-month-old son). She is also a part-time worship director at her church.

By implementing the simple strategies she learned in the program, Melissa was able to walk out of the classroom at the end of the day at a much earlier time feeling like she did her best.

Life’s too short just to sleep, work, and not be happy. Tune in to hear how Melissa got proactive and changed her teaching life around to make more time for what really matters.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode11

Resources Mentioned:

Sign up for the 3 PM Teacher Training: https://courses.easyteachingtools.com/3pmsummer22

Get the Tired Teacher’s Guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ScsELeMlZFc_QlTjj2mcaPZHI9EQCmjT/view?usp=sharing

Follow Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissa_whitlock/

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

How to Get Your Life Back with Sabrena Brooks Jun 25, 2022

Are you ready to get your life back?

In our very first interview on Real Teacher Talk, I sat down with Sabrena Brooks, a busy teacher and mama to talk about how she balances school with her life and the tools she uses to make it happen.

Sabrena Brooks is a mom of two active boys with a baby girl on the way. She is a lover of camping and music, and wife to a special education para-educator by day and chef by night. Her teaching career includes kindergarten for one year, 1st grade for five years, and kindergarten ESL for one year. She has a master's degree in Teaching and Learning and was the distance learning teacher for 1st grade during the 2020-2021 school year.

Sabrena realized she needed help when she was staying at school every night until 6:30 and showing back up by 7 in the morning. She had no semblance of balance in her life. That’s when she joined my program Easy Organization Tools where I show teachers how to consistently leave school prepared at contract time so that they can be more fully present in their life.

The organization tools Sabrena learned made all of the difference. Tune in to learn more about how the program transformed her teaching life and how she now uses these tools in her home too!

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode10

Resources Mentioned:

Follow Sabrena on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frogs_in_first

Join the 3 PM Teacher Training: https://courses.easyteachingtools.com/3pmsummer22

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

3 Tips to Actually Enjoying your Teacher Summer Jun 18, 2022

If you are still in a coma from the school year and wondering how you can make the most of this summer, you’re in the right place!

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I’ve got three simple tips to help you breathe, relax, and celebrate the fact that you made it. So many teachers have told me that the last school year was the hardest in their careers, but the tips in this episode will help you get recharged and refreshed.

I know life is busy. You have so many things pulling you in a million different directions, especially in the summer because many of us try to cram in all of the activities that we couldn’t do during the school year. But you deserve the time to relax and focus on yourself, too. Put it in your schedule and make it a non-negotiable!

As teachers, and for many of us women, we put ourselves last. We are always thinking of our students, our kids, our family, or our spouses, and we end up at the bottom of your priority list. In order to get the rest and refresh that you need, you have to change that.

Tune in to learn more about how you can use this summer to do some relaxing activities, define your core values, establish boundaries going forward, and make “me time” a non-negotiable in your life.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode9

Resources Mentioned:

Join the Summer Reset Challenge: https://courses.easyteachingtools.com/classroomreset

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

The 5 Types of Teachers Jun 11, 2022

What type of teacher are you?

After working with thousands of teachers inside my program, Easy Organization Tools, my free training 3 PM Teacher, and teaching for 13 years, I have finally discovered the five types of teachers. And I know what you may be thinking, why does this matter?

In this week’s episode of Real Teacher Talk, I’m going to help you discover what type of teacher you are and why it’s actually holding you back from leaving at contract time and living a life you love.

I need to start by saying that through my years of teaching, I have been each type of teacher! There is no right or wrong. The cool thing is that wherever you are right now, isn’t where you have to stay. No matter your circumstance, there is hope!

My ultimate goal for you is to help you with organizational tips so that you can start leaving school at contract time and achieve more work-life balance. No matter what kind of teacher you are or what your responsibilities are.

Tune in to learn about the five types of teachers and tips for how you can shift into becoming the 3 PM teacher so that you can start leaving school on time and enjoying your life outside of the classroom.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Resources Mentioned:
Burnout Teacher Guide: https://easyteachingtools.com/burntout

Join the 3 PM Teacher Waitlist: https://easyteachingtools.com/podcastwaitlist

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode8

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Easily Close Out the School Year Jun 04, 2022

We are so close to the end of the school year! Can you smell the sunscreen and freedom?

If you’re counting down the days and ready to close out the school year easily so that you can kick back, relax, and recharge this summer, you’re going to love this episode of Real Teacher Talk!

The end of the year is an incredibly busy time between all of the cleaning, report cards, filing, reminders, and everything else going on. It can feel a little chaotic. Luckily there are some simple and easy things you can do now that will make those last couple of days of school as laid back as possible.

The end of the school year is supposed to be fun for students. It should be about themed days, popsicle parties, fun activities, movie days, and just relaxing after all of our hard work. You should be able to enjoy that with your students without the stress of your enormous to-do list lingering over your head.

These simple tips will help you get a head start on your to-do list so you are not left scrambling at the last minute to get ready for the end of the year. Tune in to hear my top cleaning tips, organization ideas, and my favorite resources for making it all as smooth as possible.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Resources Mentioned:

Join the waitlist for the 3 PM Teacher Training: https://easyteachingtools.com/podcastwaitlist

Create a Class Instagram account: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Class-Instagram-1785067

End Of The Year Life Saver: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Teacher-Lifesaver-End-of-the-Year-Activities-countdown-awards-memory-book-1842015

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode7

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

How to Easily Set Up Next School Year... Now May 28, 2022

It’s almost the end of the year!

At this point, you may just be counting down the days until you are floating on a flamingo with a piña colada in your hand and eating warm meals in peace. I get that! What if I told you that you could do all that and easily prepare a few simple things for the next school year?

In this week’s episode of Real Teacher Talk, I am sharing my top time-savers that you can do now so that you can enjoy your summer break without worrying about preparing for the next school year.

Trust me, these things are so simple. When it comes time to head back to the classroom and you’re trying to keep up with your massive list of things to get done, you’re going to be so grateful that you planned ahead. I promise they will make your life so much easier come August when you’re in back-to-school mode.

One of the best reasons to start now? You still have helpers! Put your current students or parent helpers to work getting your class prepped. You already have so much on your plate, so there’s no shame in getting help when you need it.

Tune in to learn more of my top tips for getting your classroom ready for next year now so that you can relax this summer and have a more easy-going back-to-school experience in August.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Resources Mentioned:

Check out The Great Pencil Challenge: https://easyteachingtools.com/thegreatpencilchallenge.html

Memory Book blog post: https://easyteachingtools.com/memory-book.html

Get on the waitlist for my free training: https://easyteachingtools.com/podcastwaitlist

4 Teacher-Approved Strategies from K-5 Teachers: https://easyteachingtools.com/3PMPodcast

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode6

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Clearing the Clutter for Good May 21, 2022

Are you ready to finally clear classroom clutter?

We are almost to summer break, so it’s time to start thinking about clearing all that clutter so you can start the summer knowing you’ll have a fresh and clean classroom to come back to. I know many teachers are in survival mode this time of year and lots of things are piling up. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and ready to clear the clutter for good, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I am diving deep into 5 simple things that you can do to declutter your classroom or your home so that you can ditch all of your overwhelm and get ready for a fresh start.

I know how hard it can be when there’s so much clutter around. For me, I feel like I am suffocating in my own space, and I just can’t do my best work. This simple process for clearing the clutter is what I use anytime I start to feel anxiety.

The best way to do this is by simply getting started. Put it on your calendar with a due date and stick to it! You will feel so much better and lighter without all of that stress weighing you down. You have enough to worry about with work, you don’t need to add the stress of a cluttered classroom to the list.

Tune in to learn more about my simple steps to start organizing your classroom and clearing all that clutter for good!

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Resources Mentioned:

Keep it or Toss It Labels: https://easyteachingtools.com/episode5clutter

Join the FREE 3 PM Teacher Waitlist: https://easyteachingtools.com/podcastwaitlist

Get the 4 Teacher-Approved Strategies from K-5 Teachers e-book: https://easyteachingtools.com/3pmpodcast

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode5

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

I'm Burned Out, Now What? May 14, 2022

Have you noticed how many teachers are leaving the profession lately?

It’s incredibly disheartening to see how many are leaving, but I don’t blame them! They are burned out and demoralized. If this sounds like you, you’re in the right place.

I know many of us are just counting down until break or may not even want to go back next year, so in this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I am sharing six steps that you can use in your life right now if you are dealing with burnout.

To understand this issue, we have to get clear on what burnout is and what demoralization is. They are two different things, but they both have to do with work dissatisfaction and are very real issues that need to be addressed.

I know you’re doing your very, very best and you deserve to be treated with respect and paid appropriately for all of your hard work. The goal of this episode is to help you feel powerful and like you have a voice when things feel out of control. I want you to be supported and heard and feel like you have some semblance of work-life balance.

Make sure to tune in to learn more about why teachers are leaving, what has changed in the teaching profession in recent years, and six tips to battle teacher burnout.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Resources Mentioned:
Get on the waitlist for my 3 PM Teacher Training: https://easyteachingtools.com/podcastwaitlist
Download my freebie: 10 Things You Can Do To Rest and Relax: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YLWjx5GwFchjsFEZdZU1B7fJTvPm-p_8/view

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode4

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

How to Say "No" May 14, 2022

Do you ever feel like it’s impossible to catch up in your classroom?

It can be overwhelming to try to stay on top of everything, and in the rare instances that you do, you have laundry piled up at home and dirty dishes overflowing in the sink. We’ve all been there! It’s a never-ending cycle.

So how can you finally get off the hamster wheel? The answer is simpler than you think. All you have to do is learn to say no.

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I am sharing five simple steps to use when making decisions about whether to take on time-consuming classes, before and after school care, or other extra responsibilities.

It all starts with you asking yourself the simple question- is this something that you want to do? And I don’t mean do you feel obligated to do it, I mean is it something you want to do? It’s a simple yes or no question.

If you do decide to say no, it can be a no with a period. You don’t need an explanation. You are the one who decides what to take on. You don’t need to feel guilty for setting healthy boundaries with your time and energy and sticking to them.

It’s time to start putting your needs first! Make sure to tune in to hear the top things you need to keep in mind when deciding what to take on, and how to finally start saying no without teacher guilt.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode3

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Dealing with Teacher Guilt May 14, 2022

Have you ever experienced teacher guilt?

Chances are that you have because it is very real and very common. The truth is, teachers have such big hearts! We want to help everyone. Whether that’s our team, our admin, our students, or their families, we are always there, even if it’s at the expense of our own happiness or our time with our family.

Teacher guilt is often the result of things like the pressure to not let anyone down, not wanting our team to think we are lazy, or not wanting to add on any work for anyone else. Sound familiar? We are so worried about everyone else, but what about us?

What can we do to overcome that? In this episode of Real Teach Talk, I’m sharing how you can conquer teacher guilt for good.

You can choose teacher guilt or you can choose family guilt because by saying yes to everything the admin asks of you, you are saying no to your family and mental health. Do you really want to do all those extra tasks? You might be surprised about what actually happens when you start prioritizing yourself.

Tune into this episode to learn more about why it’s time to start prioritizing yourself, setting boundaries, and why saying no to extra tasks may actually pay off in the long run.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!

Resources Mentioned:
Join the Easy Teaching Tools Primary Teachers Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/easyteachingtoolsprimaryteachers/
Join the 3 PM Teacher Training Waitlist: https://easyteachingtools.com/podcastwaitlist

Show notes available at easyteachingtools.com/episode2

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

5 Simple Secrets to Enjoy Teaching Again May 14, 2022

It’s no surprise that so many amazing teachers are experiencing burnout. Here’s the honest truth about that: it’s not their fault!

In this episode of Real Teacher Talk, I am going to be sharing five simple secrets that your principal won’t tell you, and these secrets will help you fall in love with teaching again.

When I first began teaching, I absolutely loved it. I signed up for everything I could and spent all my time thinking about it. By the time I reached 8 years in, I realized that my health was suffering and I had no social life or hobbies to speak of. I realized I just couldn’t keep going at that pace for another 30 years until I retired.

If you are experiencing that, you may be dreading work or counting down until the end of the day or the school year. It doesn’t have to be that way though. You don’t have to only live for summer breaks or the weekends! You can enjoy your life for the present.

Tune in to hear all about five easy things that you can do to bring that joy and inspiration back into teaching today. I cover things like boundaries, making time for fun, systems, and so much more.

You don’t want to miss this episode!

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/EasyTeachingTools & Instagram: instagram.com/easyteachingtools!
Resources Mentioned:
Sign up: 3 PM Teacher Training Waitlist: https://easyteachingtools.com/podcastwaitlist
Download my FREE E-book: 4 Easy Organization Ideas for Busy Teachers To Save You Time: https://easyteachingtools.com/3pmpodcast

Full show notes are available at easyteachingtools.com/episode1.

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

Welcome to Real Teacher Talk! May 08, 2022

Do you feel like you are being pulled in a dozen different directions as an elementary school teacher? Are you constantly overwhelmed because you can’t get caught up? Do you ever get the feeling that no matter how hard you work, you still aren't doing enough for your students or for your family at home?

If your answer is yes to any or all of these questions, you need a better way. You simply can't go on like this.

Join Kristen Donegan of Easy Teaching Tools and The 3 PM Teacher as she talks about how to make teaching sustainable so you can finally say goodbye to grading papers after-hours and missing out on time with family and friends.

While she can't fix the education crisis, each week Kristen will help you work smarter, not harder, have time to focus on the curriculum, enjoy teaching again, and still have plenty of time outside of the classroom to do what you love.

Tune in to Real Teacher Talk and listen closely because it’s time to take back your power, finally leave school at 3PM, and enjoy your life!

To find out more, visit www.easyteachingtools.com!

Register for the 3 PM Teacher Training at www.easyteachingtools.com/3pmteacher!

I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review on Apple and a rating on Spotify!
I read each of them, and they help me make sure I am providing the content that you love to hear! Plus, you get to pay it forward because it will allow other teachers like you to find the podcast!
Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

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