Episodes

  • Engaging Learners: The Heart of Education
    Sep 10 2025

    In this episode, John unpacks the essential elements that create engaged learners and a thriving classroom community. He shares how building classroom identity, practicing authenticity in teaching, and fostering student partnership lead to stronger teacher relationships and higher student engagement. Through practical teaching strategies, John highlights how recognizing students as individuals, modeling honesty, and encouraging cooperation can transform the culture of any classroom. Whether you’re passionate about education, exploring new ways to strengthen classroom culture, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation offers actionable insights to help teachers build classrooms where students feel valued, motivated, and ready to learn.

    ======================

    Takeaways

    1. Best classrooms are built on deeper connections.
    2. Engaging students as individuals is crucial.
    3. Students can sense authenticity in teachers.
    4. Vulnerability fosters stronger teacher-student relationships.
    5. Classrooms thrive on shared responsibility.
    6. Ownership in the classroom enhances student engagement.
    7. True transformation in education starts with relationships.
    8. Teachers should focus on community over compliance.
    9. Feeling valued is essential for student learning.
    10. Connection and culture are more important than content.

    =================================

    Sound bites

    "the classroom is a community"

    "this classroom belongs to me"

    "we're not managers, we're teachers"

    ==================================

    Chapters

    00:00 Intro

    00:45 The Anchor of Identity

    01:52 The Anchor of Authenticity

    04:06 The Anchor of Partnership

    05:23 Transformation Begins with Recognition and Relationship


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    7 mins
  • Breaking the Burnout Cycle in Education
    Sep 2 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Kelli McLeod discusses her journey through teacher burnout and the creation of the Rested Teacher Rebellion, a movement aimed at challenging the unrealistic expectations placed on teachers. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, recognizing self-worth beyond productivity, and fostering a supportive community among educators. The discussion highlights the need for systemic change in the teaching profession to prioritize teacher well-being and retention.


    Takeaways


    Kelli McLeod started the Rested Teacher Rebellion to combat teacher burnout.

    Teachers often feel guilty for not meeting unrealistic expectations.

    Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining personal and professional health.

    Support from colleagues can help teachers navigate burnout.

    The narrative that teachers must be superheroes is harmful and unrealistic.

    Teachers need to prioritize their well-being to effectively serve their students.

    Burnout can be mitigated by setting clear boundaries and expectations.

    Teachers should not feel pressured to work unpaid overtime.

    The Rested Teacher Rebellion encourages teachers to reclaim their time and energy.

    Kelli believes that teachers can love their profession again with the right support and boundaries.


    Chapters


    00:00 Intro

    01:07 When did you realize you were burned out

    04:00 The Weight of Teaching: Balancing Professional and Personal Life

    07:04 Finding Purpose: The Importance of 'Why' in Teaching

    10:07 The Rested Teacher Rebellion: A Movement for Change

    13:13 Setting Boundaries: Empowering Teachers to Say No

    16:01 Sustaining Passion: Avoiding Burnout in Education

    20:15 Balancing Work and Life as a Teacher

    22:40 Understanding Self-Worth Beyond Productivity

    24:12 The Myth of the Superhero Teacher

    25:50 Building Vulnerable Relationships with Students

    28:07 Revising Teacher Contracts for Better Work-Life Balance

    30:13 Challenging Norms in Teacher Work Expectations

    31:35 The Importance of Boundaries in Teaching

    33:58 Envisioning a Healthier Future for Teachers

    35:34 Encouragement for Teachers Facing Burnout

    Keywords

    teacher burnout, Rested Teacher Rebellion, boundaries, teacher support, self-worth, education reform, teacher wellness, teaching profession, mental health, teacher retention



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    40 mins
  • How Teachers Can Make More Money by Monetizing Their Skills
    Aug 26 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, John and Katy discuss the unique challenges and opportunities faced by educators, particularly in the context of digital marketing and entrepreneurship. They explore alternative paths in education, the importance of investing in oneself, and how teachers can leverage their skills to create additional income streams. Katy shares her personal journey from traditional teaching to building a digital marketing business, emphasizing the need for mindset shifts and support systems in the teaching profession.

    =============================================

    All Recordings are made with ⁠Riverside.fm⁠

    To get started with Riverside Click Here https://riverside.sjv.io/c/6458270/2648500/28064

    Start Your Own Community https://nas.io/referral?code=TEACHER_TALK_WITH_JOHN

    For Coaching: https://nas.io/teachertalk/products/coaching-session-

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    👉 Grab our FREE RESOURCES--------------------------------------------------------

    • 💥⁠ ⁠5 days to Restored Energy Challaenge https://nas.io/teachertalk/challenges/5-days-to-restored-energy-a-challenge-for-burnedout-educators-galu

    4 Days to Becoming the Teacher you Always Wanted to Be Click Here https://nas.io/teachertalk/challenges/the-teacher-you-always-wanted-to-be

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    • 🌱Rooted and Renewed 30 Affirmations for Teachers: https://nas.io/teachertalk/digital-files/xtuz

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    🧡⁠ ⁠join Teacher talk here https://nas.io/teachertalk

    🎙️ Listen to the Teacher Talk Podcast here https://open.spotify.com/show/2X9kPsSEesO3wRtZBmfVFf?si=tprYTyUdRPKeUh-15nb7_Q


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    Takeaways

    • We have alternative paths to education.
    • Single moms can juggle multiple responsibilities and still succeed.
    • Investing in a proven system is crucial for success.
    • Digital marketing requires continuous learning and adaptation.
    • Teachers can build additional income through online businesses.
    • Mindset is key to overcoming challenges in education.
    • Teachers are well-equipped for digital marketing due to their planning skills.
    • Financial freedom is achievable for educators.
    • Support systems are essential for teachers transitioning to entrepreneurship.
    • The creator economy is a growing opportunity for teachers.

    =============================================

    Sound bites

    "You can have financial freedom."

    "You need to invest in a system."

    "You can do hard things."

    =============================================

    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Geospatial Solutions

    03:59 Transitioning to Education

    07:00 The Journey into Teaching

    09:38 Classroom Realities and Challenges

    13:22 Behavior Management in the Classroom

    15:38 Exploring Digital Marketing

    18:28 Empowering Teachers through Digital Income

    21:07 Mindset and Overcoming Barriers

    21:21 The Freedom of Digital Marketing

    25:11 Investing in a Proven System

    26:38 Breaking Free from Income Caps

    30:50 Building a Sustainable Online Business

    33:18 Taking the First Step Towards Success


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    37 mins
  • Empowering Educators: The Path to Financial Freedom From Classroom to Online: A Teacher's Journey
    Aug 26 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, John and Katy discuss the unique challenges and opportunities faced by educators, particularly in the context of digital marketing and entrepreneurship. They explore alternative paths in education, the importance of investing in oneself, and how teachers can leverage their skills to create additional income streams. Katy shares her personal journey from traditional teaching to building a digital marketing business, emphasizing the need for mindset shifts and support systems in the teaching profession.

    =============================================

    All Recordings are made with Riverside.fm

    To get started with Riverside Click Here https://riverside.sjv.io/c/6458270/2648500/28064

    Start Your Own Community https://nas.io/referral?code=TEACHER_TALK_WITH_JOHN

    For Coaching: https://nas.io/teachertalk/products/coaching-session-

    ==========================================================================

    👉 Grab our FREE RESOURCES--------------------------------------------------------

    • 💥 5 days to Restored Energy Challaenge https://nas.io/teachertalk/challenges/5-days-to-restored-energy-a-challenge-for-burnedout-educators-galu

    4 Days to Becoming the Teacher you Always Wanted to Be Click Here https://nas.io/teachertalk/challenges/the-teacher-you-always-wanted-to-be

    ==========================================================================

    • 🌱Rooted and Renewed 30 Affirmations for Teachers: https://nas.io/teachertalk/digital-files/xtuz

    ===========================================================================

    🧡 join Teacher talk here https://nas.io/teachertalk

    🎙️ Listen to the Teacher Talk Podcast here https://open.spotify.com/show/2X9kPsSEesO3wRtZBmfVFf?si=tprYTyUdRPKeUh-15nb7_Q


    ===========================================

    Takeaways

    • We have alternative paths to education.
    • Single moms can juggle multiple responsibilities and still succeed.
    • Investing in a proven system is crucial for success.
    • Digital marketing requires continuous learning and adaptation.
    • Teachers can build additional income through online businesses.
    • Mindset is key to overcoming challenges in education.
    • Teachers are well-equipped for digital marketing due to their planning skills.
    • Financial freedom is achievable for educators.
    • Support systems are essential for teachers transitioning to entrepreneurship.
    • The creator economy is a growing opportunity for teachers.

    =============================================

    Sound bites

    "You can have financial freedom."

    "You need to invest in a system."

    "You can do hard things."

    =============================================

    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Geospatial Solutions

    03:59 Transitioning to Education

    07:00 The Journey into Teaching

    09:38 Classroom Realities and Challenges

    13:22 Behavior Management in the Classroom

    15:38 Exploring Digital Marketing

    18:28 Empowering Teachers through Digital Income

    21:07 Mindset and Overcoming Barriers

    21:21 The Freedom of Digital Marketing

    25:11 Investing in a Proven System

    26:38 Breaking Free from Income Caps

    30:50 Building a Sustainable Online Business

    33:18 Taking the First Step Towards Success


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    37 mins
  • The ONE Question that Changed How I Connect with My Students
    Aug 19 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, John shares a poignant story about a teacher's struggle to connect with his students amidst the challenges of teaching. The narrative highlights the importance of understanding students' personal stories and emotional needs, emphasizing that connection must precede content in education. Through a moment of vulnerability, the teacher learns to ask meaningful questions, leading to a transformative experience in the classroom. The discussion encourages educators to foster a supportive community where both teachers and students can thrive.

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    Takeaways

    1. Teaching can feel like a battlefield.
    2. Connection is more important than content.
    3. Students have personal struggles that affect learning.
    4. Asking questions can lead to deeper understanding.
    5. Creating a safe space is essential for learning.
    6. Teachers need to know their students' stories.
    7. Small changes can lead to significant shifts in the classroom.
    8. Building trust takes time and effort.
    9. Community support is vital for teachers.
    10. Emotional health is crucial for effective teaching.

    ===================================

    Sound bites


    "Connection has to come before content."

    "You can be heard and you can be safe."

    "Stay strong and keep teaching."

    =====================================

    Chapters

    00:00 The Battlefield of Teaching

    03:02 The Turning Point: Asking the Right Questions

    06:02 The Power of Connection

    09:09 Creating Safe Spaces for Students

    =========================================

    For Coaching: The Reset Session

    ==========================================================================

    Start Your Own Community Teacher Talk

    👉 Grab our FREE RESOURCES--------------------------------------------------------

    • 💥 5 Days to Restored Energy Challenge

    ===============================================

    4 Days to Becoming the Teacher You Always Wanted to Be

    ===========================

    • 🌱 Rooted and Renewed: 30 Faith-Based Affirmations for Teachers

    ===========================================================================

    🧡 Join the Teacher Talk community

    =============================================================================

    🎙️ Listen to the Teacher Talk podcast

    #teaching #connection #student engagement #teacher struggles #classroom dynamics #education #teacher community



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    11 mins
  • "Rhythms Over Routines: A Guide for Educators"
    Aug 12 2025

    Summary

    In this episode of Teacher Talk, join John as he delves into the art of crafting personal and professional rhythms that align with your values and priorities. Discover how to navigate the demands of the school year without losing yourself in the chaos. Learn practical strategies to establish a flow that honors your energy and purpose, ensuring you thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Whether you're a seasoned educator or new to the field, this episode offers insights to help you restore joy and balance in your teaching journey. Tune in and start building a rhythm that supports your well-being and professional growth.

    ==================================

    For Coaching: The Reset Session

    ==========================================================================

    Start Your Own Community Teacher Talk

    👉 Grab our FREE RESOURCES--------------------------------------------------------

    • 💥 5 Days to Restored Energy Challenge

    ===============================================

    4 Days to Becoming the Teacher you Always Wanted to Be

    ===========================

    • 🌱 Rooted and Renewed: 30 Faith-Based Affirmations for Teachers

    ===============================================

    The Teacher Commission

    ============================

    🧡 Join the Teacher Talk community

    ==========================================================================


    ==============================

    Takeaways

    =====================================

    Rebuilding rhythm is essential before the school year starts.

    Teachers often feel overwhelmed by the demands of the school system.

    Rhythm is about pace and flow, not just daily routines.

    Creating anchors can help maintain stability during chaotic times.

    Aligning your rhythm with your values is crucial for fulfillment.

    Small, meaningful practices can prevent burnout.

    It's important to protect time for renewal and rest.

    Teaching should not be a constant struggle.

    The goal is to thrive, not just survive the school year.

    Community support can restore joy in teaching.

    =======================================

    Sound bites


    "Teaching should not be this hard."

    "It's not lazy to need rest."

    "Choose one small rhythm and build on it."

    =============================

    Chapters


    00:00 Rebuilding Personal and Professional Rhythm

    02:45 Understanding Rhythm vs. Routine

    05:18 Creating Anchors for Stability

    08:05 Aligning Rhythm with Values

    10:34 Establishing a Teacher Commission for Success


    #TeacherTalk #RhythmAndValues #EducatorLife #Teacher #TeacherLife

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    11 mins
  • Is it Just Teacher Stress or Teacher Burnout: The difference Matters
    Aug 5 2025

    Join John Miller as he delves into the pressing issue of teacher burnout, a challenge faced by 59% of educators. In this episode, John shares his personal journey through stress-induced paralysis and recovery, offering insights into distinguishing between stress and burnout. Discover practical steps to restore joy in the classroom and learn how faith can play a role in healing.

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    Key Points:

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    The alarming statistics of teacher burnout compared to other professions. Differentiating between stress and burnout and their impacts. John's personal story of overcoming burnout. The role of faith and setting boundaries in recovery. Practical tips for teachers to manage stress and prevent burnout.

    =======================================================================

    Call to Action: Access the free resource "Five Days to Renewed Energy" to start your recovery journey. Subscribe, comment, and share if you found this episode helpful.

    This one’s practical, faith-forward, and deeply encouraging for anyone who feels stretched thin.

    🧠 Plus: We’ve got free tools and community support waiting for you in the show notes!

    👇 Links Mentioned in the Show: Coaching: ⁠The Reset Session⁠

    ===============================================

    👉 Grab our FREE RESOURCES Start Your Own Community Teacher Talk⁠

    ==========================================

    • 💥 5 Days to Restored Energy Challenge⁠

    ===============================================

    • Becoming the Teacher you Always Wanted to Be

    ==================================================================

    • 🌱⁠ Rooted and Renewed: 30 Faith-Based Affirmations for Teachers⁠

    ===============================================

    🧡Join the Teacher Talk community


    #TeacherBurnout #Education #FaithBasedRecovery #Teacher #Stress

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    9 mins
  • How to be Unavailable Without Feeling Guilty
    Jul 29 2025

    How to Be Unavailable Without Feeling Guilty
    =============================================Have you ever finally said “no” to something—only to feel bad about it right after? Like you were being unfair, unhelpful, or letting someone down? You’re not alone—and you’re not wrong for needing boundaries.

    ===============================================

    In this episode of Teacher Talk, we’re dismantling the guilt that too often drives our decisions as educators. From overextending ourselves to being the “go-to” for everything, we explore why guilt is not a good motivator—and how wisdom, not overwork, should shape our choices.

    ===============================================

    You’ll learn:

    • Why guilt leads to burnout, not better results

    • How to set boundaries without being harsh

    • What Scripture says about restraint, clarity, and wise decision-making

    • Why being unavailable doesn’t mean you don’t care

    • How to pre-decide your limits to protect your energy all year long

    ===============================================

    This one’s practical, faith-forward, and deeply encouraging for anyone who feels stretched thin.

    🧠 Plus: We’ve got free tools and community support waiting for you in the show notes!

    👇 Links Mentioned in the Show:
    Coaching: The Reset Session

    ===============================================

    👉 Grab our FREE RESOURCESStart Your Own Community Teacher Talk

    ==========================================

    • 💥 5 Days to Restored Energy Challenge

    ===============================================

    • 🌱 Rooted and Renewed: 30 Faith-Based Affirmations for Teachers

    ===============================================

    🧡 Join the Teacher Talk community

    ===============================================

    🎙️Connect on YouTube🛎️ Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help bring joy back to the classroom—one teacher at a time.Let’s stop teaching like guilt is required—and start showing up like health is holy.

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    13 mins