Always A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast

We’ve hit the midpoint of the school year—congratulations! In this episode, we’re taking a breath and reflecting on what’s working, what’s not, and how to finish the year strong without burning out. From classroom engagement hacks to managing mid-year chaos, we’ll unpack practical ways to keep your students motivated and protect your own energy. Quotables "Let student’s present. However you go abo...

In this episode, we dive into what makes classroom conversations truly meaningful and how to move beyond surface-level participation to create powerful, high-impact discussions. From establishing a safe classroom culture to teaching students how to listen actively and respond thoughtfully, we unpack practical ways to elevate dialogue and deepen learning. Quotables "Great questions don't just test...

In this episode we dive into one of the biggest challenges teachers face—getting students to actually care about what they’re learning. Great lesson planning isn’t just about standards and objectives—it’s about connection, relevance, and engagement. Join us as we explore how intentional planning can transform your lessons from “just another class” into experiences that matter to your students. Quo...

Listen in as Jennifer Burns tells about the importance of being open to learning, and reflecting on the craft of teaching for all students. Having experience in a variety of different avenues in the teaching profession, Jennifer brings a perspective and a tool in this episode that will help teachers in their upcoming lessons. Quotables * All quotes are from the interviewee* "Everywhere you go, the...

In this weeks episode, we're diving into the power of consistency in the classroom. Routines don't just happen overnight -- they're built overtime with patience, practice, and persistence. Gretchen will talk about how setting clear expectations and sticking to them helps create a classroom flow that feels natural and structured for students. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned pro looking t...

Burnout isn't just "being tired" -- It's an emotional, physical, and mental crash that can leave you feeling stuck, unmotivated, and overwhelmed. In this weeks episode, Gretchen discusses the real struggle of burnout and how it can be avoided. Quotables "Life is going to get hard, so get yourself in action to prepare for the hard." "Boundaries and self-care are interconnected." “We are not meant t...

The school year starts off strong — students are excited, routines are fresh, and momentum is high. But as September rolls on, many classrooms experience what we call the September Slump . In this episode, we talk about why student engagement can dip during this time, why it’s important to address it early, and practical tips for keeping your classroom energized and focused. Quotables " When your...

In this episode, we dive into how educators can intentionally reset their classroom culture at the start of the school year. Whether you’re teaching brand-new students or welcoming back familiar faces, the first weeks are the perfect time to establish the norms, routines, and relationships that will shape the months ahead. We’ll discuss practical strategies to create a safe, engaging, and inclusiv...

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. LaKimbre Brown, an experienced educational leader and advocate for equity in schools, to explore the ever-changing landscape of education. Dr. Brown shares her insights on how schools are evolving to meet the diverse needs of today’s students, from shifting curriculums to addressing representation in both classrooms and leadership. We discuss what it...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with school psychologist Kay Kelly to explore her unique journey within the educational system and how she’s thinking outside the box to create real-world opportunities for students. Kay shares stories from her experiences in various school settings and how those shaped her passion for integrating mental health support with practical, hands-on learning. This...

In this inspiring episode, we dive into the heart of literacy and its life-changing impact with renowned literacy advocate, educator, and CEO Pam Allyn. Pam shares powerful insights into why reading is not just a fundamental skill, but a gateway to equity, empowerment, and lifelong success. Quotables ** All quotes are from the interviewee ** "I really want the world to be a better place for childr...

In this powerful episode, Superintendent Dr. Brandi Kelly joins us to share the story behind her transformative system of H.O.P.E. She breaks down what H.O.P.E. stands for, how it came to be, and how it’s changing the way educators and leaders approach their work in schools and communities. Dr. Kelly dives into the importance of strong, uplifting relationships—connecting with the right people who...

In this episode, we sit down with educational leader Pablo Munoz to explore the heart of effective teaching and leadership. Pablo emphasizes that loving children is the foundation of successful teaching, sharing how genuine care and connection pave the way for impactful learning. He dives into what true educational leadership looks like—leading with purpose, integrity, and a deep belief in student...

Let's celebrate together as Always a Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast turns 10! Tune in on this live recording in celebration of all things over the past ten years. Throughout the episode, Gretchen talks past and present about the experience, the fun, and the amazing educators she's been able to meet along the way. Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join  here  and grab a freebie! Connect wi...

Step into the world of STEM when you listen to this weeks episode! Learn all about the benefits, different tips to take back to your own classroom, and how you can get involved yourself. Quotables ** All quotes are by the interviewee ** “A setback is when you learn from the mistake and you continue on.” “Find role models and mentors.” “We need to be more collaborative together as teaching teams.”...

Often times teachers want to do what is comfortable for them, but what if the best way to help your students was to step out of your comfort zone and teach differently? Listen in as Robert Barnett tells his story about how he shifted his teaching style and stepped out of the norm for his students. Quotables ** All quotes are by the interviewee ** "Learning should feel good. Students should build s...

Have you ever needed more clarity? Have you ever wondered what more clarity looked like in schools? Listen in as Casey Watts speaks on exactly that and gives insider tips on how to make your school successful in this practice. Quotables ** All quotes are by the interviewee ** "Show up for yourself the way you want to show up." " Pause, listen, question, and avoid making assumptions." " Clarity pre...

Peer collaboration in education is so important and can bring so much growth to you as a professional. Listen in to this weeks episode as Gretchen dives deep into how peer collaboration can be beneficial, rewarding, and valuable. Quotables "It really builds a culture of collaboration when you can go watch a peer and build them up. " "You don’t know what someone can bring to the table, so don’t ass...

Are you a mentor? Are you a beginning teacher? Listen in as Gretchen speaks on the importance of a successful mentor and mentee partnership. This partnership is highly important for beginning teachers as they navigate the profession. Throughout this episode, Gretchen shares a story and gives quality tips to help things run smoothly. Quotables "When we can name what makes something successful, we c...

School partnerships between parents, teachers, and administration are so important. Listen in as Christina Hidek tells her story about leading the PTO in her district, and how it turned her passion of helping others into the work she does today. Quotables *All quotes are from the interviewee* "Happy teachers make for happy kids which makes happy parents." "It's a funny little thing when your passi...

Coaching can be seen differently depending on your school and district, but it doesn't have to be negative. By working side by side, the coach and the teacher can turn into a successful partnership where growth happens all around. Listen in as Gretchen explains different steps, tips, and tricks to make an instructional coaching partnership in your own school. Quotables "We create the vision with w...

Have you ever wondered if something in our schools should be celebrated more, less or not at all? Join in as Gretchen speaks about the importance of celebrations based on personal tangible performance, and tells personal stories from her own experiences. Quotables "We have to take that [best performance] into consideration and not just have a generic bar that everyone has to meet ." “That [best pe...

You never know when chaos will strike, but it's always good to have a system in place. Listen in as Gretchen talks about her experience with chaos during holiday break and how she is prepared and ready when it strikes again. Quotables: "Things are going to happen. Chaos is going to come and sometimes it's for the better." "Recalibrate often and assess needs." "When you don't overuse your connectio...

Join Gretchen as she speaks about the Crisis Response in Education and what you can do to make it better. Throughout the episode, Gretchen gives you resources and tangible action steps to make your school more prepared in a crisis situation. Quotables "We can't just prepare for crisis itself. We have to prepare for what happens after the crisis." " You don’t have to be a leader in the school to ha...

Join us as we listen in to Miriam Plotinsky and all about her teaching perspective. Throughout this episode you will here how Miriam Plotinsky has used he knowledge in and out of the classroom in order to develop tips and tricks for teachers. Quotables *All quotes are from interviewee* " The collective expertise that we all share for whatever our advantage point is what can get us the result that...