You might know Mandy as the 2018 National Teacher of the Year — the educator who made headlines for bringing 45 letters from her immigrant and refugee students to President Trump at the White House. There was controversy around that moment, including claims she didn’t shake his hand, but her focus was always on amplifying her students’ voices and standing in her truth. (Ps she did shake his hand)

Mandy and I originally met while training for the Washington Education Association, and both becoming culturally responsive classroom management trainers. Since then, she’s continued to be a light in spaces where so much is often hidden.

In this episode we talk about:

- Education, belonging, and relationships

- Toxic positivity vs. genuine joy

- Why some people resist hearing about real happiness

- Leaving a good relat ...