Why Edify: The Teacher Wellness and Resilience Podcast - Strategies and Classroom Resources

Why Edify: The Teacher Wellness and Resilience Podcast - Strategies and Classroom Resources

di Jeremy Jorgensen
Educazione

68: Hooked on Learning: 3 Creator Tricks Teachers Can Use Today

Hooked on Learning: 3 Creator Tricks Teachers Can Use Today Ever feel like your students are tuning you out? You’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. In this video, Jeremy from Wiredify shares three creative strategies inspired by content creators that you can bring straight into your classroom to boost student curiosity, engagement, and connection. You’ll learn how to: Turn bland lesson titles into irresistible invitations to learn Start class with cold opens and quick challenges that snap attention to life Structure your lessons like episodes to build narrative momentum and anticipation These aren’t gimmicks—they’re grounded in how the brain works and how curiosity fuels real learning. Whether you’re trying to revive a tired unit or inspire deeper focus, these tools will help you frame your teaching with purpose and excitement. Takeaways - Students often tune out during lessons. - Creating engaging titles can spark curiosity. - Cold opens can grab attention effectively. - Episodic teaching can enhance learning. - Leaving students with cliffhangers increases engagement. - These strategies are invitations to wonder. - Building community is essential for educators. - Writing can be a transformative tool. - Engagement strategies are not gimmicks. - Curiosity and intention drive better learning outcomes. 🎓 Want to grow beyond the classroom? Join one (or both) of Jeremy’s new communities: 🧡 The STRONG Teacher’s Lounge: A private space for educators who want to be happier, healthier, and stronger. Early members get free lifetime access. Learn More: https://www.skool.com/the-strong-teachers-lounge-3476/about ✍️ The Write Path: A community for educators, creatives, and professionals ready to use writing for growth. Weekly prompts, real support, and a $50/year commitment to momentum. Learn More: https://www.skool.com/the-write-path-6422/about 👇 Drop a comment—Which strategy are you most excited to try? 👍 Like, subscribe, and share with a colleague who loves thoughtful, creative teaching. Let’s keep growing—together. 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter 💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit): ☕ Support Why Edify: https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify 🤝 Connect with Jeremy: https://linktr.ee/whyedify 👕 Shop Why Edify Gear: https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/ 🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen: 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/ 👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social 👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/
25 ago 2025
8:17

67. Transforming Math Anxiety into Joy: The Math Happiness Project

Transforming Math Anxiety into Joy: The Math Happiness Project What word comes to mind when you hear “math”? For many, it’s not “happiness.” But this episode might just change that. Jeremy sits down with Erin O’Halloran and Liz Cutter-Lin, two passionate educators and founders of the Math Happiness Project, to explore how we can reshape the way students, parents, and teachers experience math. From personal stories of math trauma to practical tips for families, this conversation dives deep into the emotional landscape of math education. Learn how simple shifts—like building number sense at home or rethinking speed as a marker of success—can help children develop a lifelong love for math. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or learner, you'll walk away with inspiring strategies and a renewed perspective. Takeaways - Math is the language of the universe, connecting various disciplines. - Many individuals have experienced math trauma, impacting their confidence. - Families play a crucial role in shaping children's attitudes towards math. - It's essential to normalize struggle in learning math. - Teachers wear many hats and contribute significantly to student development. - Lifelong learning is vital for educators and students alike. - Patience is key in allowing students to process and understand math concepts. - Math can be beautiful and is present in everyday life. - Changing the narrative around math can help reduce anxiety. - Resources and support for families can enhance children's math experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Math Happiness 03:09 Founders' Backgrounds and Experiences 06:07 The Importance of Supporting Families in Math Education 08:54 Lessons Learned from Colleagues 11:54 Wisdom to Share with Future Educators 14:52 Aha Moments in Education 18:02 The Role of the Math Happiness Project 20:45 The Role of Adults in Math Education 23:52 Changing Mindsets Around Math 29:57 Engaging Families in Math Learning 33:00 The Reality of Teaching and Educators' Impact 36:53 Recommended Resources for Math Education 💬 What word do YOU associate with math? Drop it in the comments and join the movement toward math joy. 🔗 Explore more from the Math Happiness Project = https://www.instagram.com/math_happiness_project/ ❤️ If you believe in the power of education and lifelong learning, consider subscribing to the Why Edify Podcast and sharing this episode with a friend. 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter 💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit): https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7 ☕ Support Why Edify: https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify 🤝 Connect with Jeremy: https://linktr.ee/whyedify 👕 Shop Why Edify Gear: https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/ 🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen: 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/ 👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social 👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/ 🔔 Never Miss an
29 lug 2025
45:06

66. How Teachers Can Find Real Happiness—With Rosalie Kissmann

How Teachers Can Find Real Happiness—With Rosalie Kissmann What if happiness wasn’t something to chase, but something we could teach—and live? In this inspiring and down-to-earth episode, Jeremy talks with Rosalie Kissmann, a veteran teacher and motivational speaker, about what it really means to live with joy in and out of the classroom. Rosalie shares powerful stories from her 24 years of teaching, including how a tough conversation with a parent taught her to stand up for what’s right—even when it’s hard. She opens up about battling imposter syndrome, choosing courage over comfort, and creating a first-of-its-kind happiness course for kids. This conversation is for any educator or lifelong learner searching for purpose, hope, and a little more joy in the work they do every day. You’ll walk away reminded that two things can be true: teaching is incredibly hard… and it’s an incredible gift. Takeaways - Rosalie has been teaching for 24 years, primarily in elementary education. - She is passionate about happiness and believes it's an untapped market. - Transitioning to motivational speaking was initially petrifying for her. - Imposter syndrome is a common feeling when speaking to larger audiences. - Teachers often feel a deep connection to their students, referring to them as 'my kids.' - It's important to have honest conversations with parents, even when difficult. - Teaching is not just a job; it's a calling that requires passion and dedication. - Rosalie created a course on happiness for children, addressing an important life skill. - The book 'Good Inside' by Dr. Becky Kennedy is recommended for its insights on parenting and emotional intelligence. - Music can significantly influence mood and motivation, with Rosalie recommending 'Go Big or Go Home' by American Authors. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Happiness and Teaching 01:54 Journey from Teacher to Motivational Speaker 07:53 Lessons Learned from Colleagues 12:22 Navigating Difficult Conversations with Parents 18:56 The Calling of Teaching 21:14 Celebrating Teacher Achievements 23:36 Creating a Course on Happiness 27:51 Book Recommendations for Educators 33:16 Music and Motivation 36:08 Closing Thoughts and Connections Connect with Rosalie Kissmann: https://www.instagram.com/joy_redefined/ Rosalie's Book Recommendation - https://geni.us/nSdse (Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy) 👉 If this resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share with someone who needs a little joy today. 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter 💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit): https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7 ☕ Support Why Edify: https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify 🤝 Connect with Jeremy: https://linktr.ee/whyedify 👕 Shop Why Edify Gear: https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/ 🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen: 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/ 👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.socia
19 lug 2025
39:55

65. Soft Planning for Teachers: Start the Year with Purpose & Peace

Soft Planning for Teachers: Start the Year with Purpose & Peace Feeling that mid-summer teacher tension? You’re not alone. In this episode of Why Edify, Jeremy Jorgensen invites you to take a breath and embrace "soft planning"—a mindful, values-driven approach to preparing for the new school year without burnout. From reconnecting with the joy of reading to tuning into your body’s signals, Jeremy shares simple yet powerful practices to help you ground yourself, reflect on what truly matters, and align your classroom with your core values. Learn how to write your “not this year” list, draft a feelings-first vision, and reframe planning as an act of presence—not pressure. Whether you're walking the dog, sipping coffee, or sitting in the summer sun, this episode is your gentle guide toward a joyful, grounded start to the school year. 💬 Reflection prompt: What do you want more of and less of in your teaching life next year? Takeaways - Give yourself permission to dream ahead without pressure. - Reframe reading as relational to rekindle love for stories. - Pay attention to physical reactions when thinking about teaching. - Planning should be rooted in values, not just tasks. - Identify what you want more of and less of in your teaching life. - Create a 'not this year' list to leave behind burdens. - Take time for self-awareness and reflection. - Use feelings to guide your vision for the classroom. - Set aside time for non-planning to recharge. - Draft a feelings-first vision for your classroom. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Soft Planning 02:54 Reframing Reading and Building Connections 05:47 Grounding in Wellness and Self-Awareness 08:45 Planning from Values and Reflection 09:40 Practical Tips for a Joyful Teaching Year ✨ Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments. Let’s build a healthier, happier teaching practice—together. 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter 💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit): https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7 ☕ Support Why Edify: https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify 🤝 Connect with Jeremy: https://linktr.ee/whyedify 👕 Shop Why Edify Gear: https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/ 🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen: 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/ 👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social 👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/
11 lug 2025
12:15

64. Let It Be: A Gentle Reset for Teachers This Summer

Let It Be: A Gentle Reset for Teachers This Summer In a culture obsessed with doing, what if your power lies in being? This episode of the Why Edify Podcast invites educators to embrace stillness, ease, and intentional recovery. Whether you're just finishing the school year or already thinking ahead, this reflection offers permission to pause, breathe, and reconnect with what truly matters. Read the accompanying newsletter: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/let-it-be/ You’ll hear: - Insights from Shanna Martin on sustainable teaching and podcasting - A calming summer reset strategy through “flip flop moments” - Stoic wisdom on letting go and finding inner peace - Gentle somatic practices to reset your nervous system - 5 low-pressure actions to restore your well-being This is your space to reflect, reset, and realign. No hustle, just heart. 🌱 ✨ What does rest look like for you—not what you've been told it should be? Takeaways - The importance of allowing oneself to rest and reflect. - Joy grows from creating space, not urgency. - Mindfulness practices can help reset the nervous system. - Stoicism teaches us to focus on what we can control. - Reflection can lead to clarity and personal growth. - Rest looks different for everyone; find what works for you. - Gentle actions can support well-being without pressure. - Building a supportive community can enhance personal growth. - Intentional living is key to a fulfilling life. - You don't have to be productive; just be present. 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter 💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit): https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7 ☕ Support Why Edify: https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify 🤝 Connect with Jeremy: https://linktr.ee/whyedify 👕 Shop Why Edify Gear: https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/ 🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen: 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/ 👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social 👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/
28 giu 2025
12:39

63. Flip-Flops, Reflection & Recovery: A Summer Reset for Educators

Flip-Flops, Reflection & Recovery: A Summer Reset for Educators Feeling stretched thin after the school year? You’re not alone. In this light yet deeply reflective episode of the Why Edify podcast, Jeremy invites educators to lean into the slower rhythms of summer and reclaim the joy of rest. Through flip-flop metaphors, barefoot grounding practices, and gentle challenges to rethink productivity, this episode is a breath of fresh air for teachers, leaders, and lifelong learners. Explore how simple summer shifts—like flipping routines and embracing “flip-flop moments”—can help you reset your nervous system, rediscover presence, and set the stage for sustainable joy in the year ahead. Whether you're journaling, walking barefoot, or just exhaling after a busy season, this is your permission to pause, recharge, and receive the gift of summer. Here's the newsletter referred to in the video: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/flip-flops-and-sunshine/ Takeaways - Summer is a time for teachers to reset and reconnect. - Rest is essential for recovery and creativity. - Small changes in routine can unlock joy. - Walking barefoot can ground us and reduce stress. - Flexibility in teaching is a valuable strength. - Reflecting on past experiences can foster growth. - Summer should be embraced as a gift, not a pause. - Teachers often feel guilty for resting, which is unnecessary. - Creating space for presence is crucial for well-being. - Engaging in self-care practices is vital for sustainability. Chapters 00:00 Embracing Summer: A Teacher's Reset 03:46 Redefining Rest: The Importance of Recovery 06:59 Finding Joy in Small Changes 09:35 Reflecting on Flexibility and Growth 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter 💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit): https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7 ☕ Support Why Edify: https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify 🤝 Connect with Jeremy: https://linktr.ee/whyedify 👕 Shop Why Edify Gear: https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/ 🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen: 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/ 👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social 👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/
25 giu 2025
10:53

62. This Moment Will Never Repeat | Ichi-go Ichi-e for Teachers (5-Minute Pep Talk)

Feeling overwhelmed or stretched thin? This short, heartfelt pep talk is for you. We explore the Japanese concept of Ichi-go Ichi-e—“one time, one meeting”—and how it can help teachers show up with greater presence, purpose, and peace in and out of the classroom. Whether you're preparing for the day ahead or unwinding after a long one, this moment is yours—and it will never repeat. Let’s make it count. ✨ Reflection Prompt: What’s one moment today that deserves your full presence? 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter 💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit): https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7 ☕ Support Why Edify: https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify 🤝 Connect with Jeremy: https://linktr.ee/whyedify 👕 Shop Why Edify Gear: https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/ 🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen: 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/ 👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social 👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/
21 giu 2025
8:40

61. Small Shifts, Big Impact: Building a Calmer, Stronger Teaching Life

Small Shifts, Big Impact: Building a Calmer, Stronger Teaching Life What if just one small change could bring more ease to your day? 🌱 In this reflective and practical episode of the Why Edify podcast, Jeremy Jorgensen invites educators, leaders, and lifelong learners to explore five intentional practices that promote wellness, clarity, and strength—both in and out of the classroom. Whether you're easing into summer or closing out the school year, these micro-habits can help you feel more grounded and energized. From micro breaks to journaling, morning movement to celebrating small wins, this episode is your calm corner for resetting and recharging—one breath, one pause, one step at a time. Takeaways - Micro breaks can help reset your mind and body. - Celebrating small wins can shift your mindset positively. - Stretching throughout the day reconnects you with your body. - Reflective teaching journals can reveal patterns in your practice. - Small shifts can create more ease in your daily life. - Scheduling intentional pauses can prevent burnout. - Creating a list of daily wins boosts energy levels. - Morning movement rituals set a calming tone for the day. - Two-minute tidy sessions can provide a sense of control. - Investing in personal growth benefits both you and your students. Chapters 00:00 Finding Your Calm Corner 02:56 Small Intentional Shifts for Clarity 05:09 Wellness Tips for a Healthier You 08:12 Reflective Practices for Professional Growth 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter 💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit): https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7 ☕ Support Why Edify: https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify 🤝 Connect with Jeremy: https://linktr.ee/whyedify 👕 Shop Why Edify Gear: https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/ 🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen: 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/ 👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social 👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/
15 giu 2025
10:06

60. Recover from Teacher Burnout with the 3R Reset Framework

Recover from Teacher Burnout with the 3R Reset Framework Feeling drained after the school year? You’re not alone — and you’re not broken. In this reflective and supportive video, Jeremy Jorgensen introduces the 3R Reset Framework—Rest, Reflect, Reconnect—to help educators recover from burnout and reclaim their energy with intention. You’ll learn how to identify the signs of exhaustion, practice meaningful rest, reflect without judgment, and reconnect with the parts of yourself that go beyond the classroom. Whether you're collapsing into summer or seeking a more intentional break, this video offers practical tools, heartfelt validation, and a path toward healing. ✨ Teachers are more than their job titles—this summer, remember who you are. Takeaways - You're not lazy. You're just exhausted. - Rest is not the absence of work; it's recovery. - Compassion is the first act of healing. - Intentional rest includes saying no to obligations. - Reflect on what drained your energy this year. - Journaling can help identify energy-draining tasks. - Reconnect with joy, not productivity. - You are more than your job title. - Give yourself permission to prioritize self-care. - Building a community can support your well-being. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Teacher Burnout 02:36 The Reset Framework: Rest, Reflect, Reconnect 👇 Dive deeper with journaling prompts and extra resources at Why Edify. https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/reflect-reset-journal-prompts-and-the-stillness-window-challenge-for-teachers/ 💬 Share your reflections below or send this to a teacher who needs it. 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter 💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit): https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7 ☕ Support Why Edify: https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify 🤝 Connect with Jeremy: https://linktr.ee/whyedify 👕 Shop Why Edify Gear: https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/ 🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen: 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/ 👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social 👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/ 🔔 Never Miss an Update! 🔔 Subscribe Here: https://www.youtube.com/@Why_Edify?sub_confirmation=1
14 giu 2025
7:17

59. Dave Burgess on Passion, Creativity & the Heart of Teaching

Dave Burgess on Passion, Creativity & the Heart of Teaching What if teaching could feel like a bold act of creativity every day? In this powerful Why Edify Podcast episode, Jeremy Jorgensen sits down with legendary educator and author of Teach Like a Pirate, Dave Burgess. Together, they explore the transformative role of passion, personal authenticity, and creativity in the classroom. Dave shares vulnerable insights about criticism, why he doesn't give traditional homework, and how living fully outside the classroom fuels powerful learning inside it. You’ll hear: - Why student engagement is more than a buzzword - How reflective teaching makes lessons unforgettable - The importance of honoring your identity and outside passions - Practical earned wisdom on handling parent conflict and burnout - Educators, leaders, and lifelong learners—this conversation is a rally cry to teach boldly, live authentically, and create meaningful impact. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Passionate Teaching 05:45 Trolling and Teaching Philosophy 10:28 Amplifying Voices in Education 14:56 Earned Wisdom from Experience 19:18 Creative Alchemy in Teaching 23:47 Engaging Students Through Personal Connections 28:24 Community and Professional Development 32:50 Final Thoughts and Recommendations 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter 💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit): https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7 ☕ Support Why Edify: https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify 🤝 Connect with Jeremy: https://linktr.ee/whyedify 👕 Shop Why Edify Gear: https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/ 🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen: 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/ 👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social 👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/
11 giu 2025
41:35
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