Beyond the Worksheet

Beyond the Worksheet

by Dr. Jess Laine

Season 1

Montessori vs. Traditional: What’s the Difference? Ep. 2

In this episode, Dr. Jess Laine takes a deep dive into two widely used but very different educational models: Montessori and traditional schooling. Drawing directly from her dissertation research in Dallas ISD, she breaks down how each model operates, what they look like in practice, and what the data actually says about their impact on student achievement and engagement. From side-by-side examples to real-world classroom dynamics, this episode unpacks the pros, limitations, and surprising findings that challenge common assumptions. Whether you're an educator, parent, or education leader, you'll walk away with a clearer understanding of what really separates these models—and why it matters.

Why Discovery Learning Matters Ep. 1

In the premiere episode of Beyond the Worksheet, Dr. Jess Laine explores the growing crisis in student engagement and academic achievement—and why discovery learning may be part of the solution. Drawing directly from her dissertation research, this episode breaks down what discovery learning really is, how it compares to traditional methods, and what the data shows about its impact on student outcomes. If you're an educator looking for more meaningful ways to reach your students, this is where the journey begins.

More Life on Set Bonus Ep. 7

In this bonus episode of Beyond the Worksheet, Dr. Jess Laine continues sharing her journey through the world of studio teaching as her career begins to gain momentum. From stepping onto the set of You and having a memorable (and slightly awkward!) moment with Penn Badgley, to working on a large-scale international film, she gives a behind-the-scenes look at what life is really like in the entertainment industry. Dr. Jess reflects on how these experiences shaped her growth as an educator—building confidence, learning to adapt, and deepening her commitment to individualized learning. She also shares how working in smaller, flexible environments allowed her to truly meet students where they are in ways traditional classrooms often cannot. This episode highlights the moments, relationships, and lessons that helped define her teaching philosophy—and sets the stage for the next chapter in her journey.

Behind the Scenes: Touring, Disney Cruises, and Reality TV Bonus Ep. 6

In this bonus episode, Dr. Jess Laine continues her studio teaching journey, sharing stories from a fast-paced and unforgettable year in 2017. From touring with The King and I to working with young talent on Nickelodeon projects, she gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to balance education with the entertainment industry. You’ll hear memorable moments from celebrating birthdays during a tornado warning, teaching on a Disney Cruise, and even stepping in as a background “teenager” during filming. Dr. Jess also shares her experience working on her first reality TV show, where safety, adaptability, and quick thinking were essential on a constantly rolling set. This episode highlights the unique, unpredictable, and rewarding nature of studio teaching—and the relationships and experiences that make it all worth it.

When the Doors Opened Bonus Ep. 5

In this bonus episode, Dr. Jess Laine shares the moment her studio teaching career truly began to take off. After years of piecing together freelance opportunities, 2016 became a turning point when she landed a role on Netflix’s The OA, marking her first major television production. From working alongside talented young actors to navigating the fast-paced world of TV sets and national tours, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the hustle and growth that come with building a career in studio teaching. Dr. Jess also reflects on the relationships that shaped her journey, including meeting a future colleague and friend, and stepping into the world of California studio teaching for the first time. It’s a story about perseverance, unexpected opportunities, and the moment when scattered experiences finally begin to come together into a meaningful career.

The Leap Into the Unknown Bonus Ep. 4

In this bonus episode, Dr. Jess Laine shares the pivotal moment when she walked away from the traditional classroom without a safety net and stepped fully into the uncertainty of studio teaching. After years of burnout and feeling misaligned within the system, she made the courageous decision to resign without a guaranteed plan, trusting that there was something better ahead. From piecing together tutoring jobs and online teaching to freelancing on Broadway tours and national productions, this episode explores the emotional reality of trading stability for possibility. It’s a story about risk, resilience, and rediscovering joy in education. If you’ve ever felt the pull toward something different but feared the unknown, this episode is for you.

Early Studio Teaching Lessons Bonus Ep. 3

In this heartfelt bonus episode, Dr. Jess Laine shares the next chapter of her journey into studio teaching—navigating unfamiliar laws, unpredictable filming schedules, and the deep desire to meet students where they are. From tutoring on Nickelodeon’s Every Witch Way to juggling traditional classroom demands and studio gigs on the side, she opens up about burnout, breakthrough moments, and the value of personalized learning. You’ll hear the challenges she faced, the joy she found in small wins, and how these early experiences shaped her philosophy that real learning starts with connection—not compliance.

Studio Teaching, Year One (2011): Learning as I Went Bonus Ep. 2

In this bonus episode, Dr. Jess Laine takes listeners back to 2011, her first year as a studio teacher, and a turning point in her career. After leaving the traditional classroom, she stepped into the unknown: teaching on the first national Broadway tour of The Addams Family. With no roadmap, no formal training, and only two students, she quickly learned how to individualize instruction, adapt to chaotic schedules, and find the heart of learning in the most unexpected places. From backstage school sessions to surprise makeup duties, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it really means to teach without four walls, and why relationships, flexibility, and relevance matter more than anything.

From Classroom to Set – My Journey as a Studio Teacher Bonus Ep. 1

In this special bonus episode, Dr. Jess Laine shares the personal journey that led her from traditional classrooms to one of the most unique teaching roles out there: studio teacher for film and television. Hear how a math-loving, theater-curious college student became an educator on the sets of hit shows and major productions. From burnout to breakthrough, this is a story about following your passion, trusting your instincts, and discovering what education can look like when you throw out the script—literally.

Meet Dr. Jess Laine

Hi, I’m Dr. Jess Phelps—but in the podcast world, you’ll hear me go by Dr. Jess Laine. I’ve been an educator since 2005 and a California Studio Teacher since 2011, and honestly, teaching is my calling. I began teaching middle and high school math in the classroom immediately after graduating with a degree in Secondary Mathematics Education. From day one, my mission has been simple: help students feel confident in math and believe in their ability to succeed—even if they’ve struggled before. Over the years, I’ve worked in all kinds of educational settings: public schools, private schools for students with learning differences, and online classrooms. I’ve been an online math instructor since 2014, creating lessons that are clear, encouraging, and tailored to each student’s needs. I also make quick, to-the-point math videos on YouTube—check out my channel, Jesslaine Live, where I help students grasp tricky concepts in just a few minutes. Another unique part of my journey? I’ve spent more than a decade working in the entertainment industry as a California Studio Teacher. That means I teach young actors on set—making sure they stay on track academically while also looking out for their well-being. I’ve worked on productions like Stranger Things, Special Ops: Lioness, Walker, Fuller House, and Mixed-ish, and the yet-to-be-released film, Michael. I’ve even toured with Broadway shows and Kidz Bop! I teach all subjects and grade levels on set, but my specialty is supporting students in higher-level subjects, such as math, science, and AP courses. I love creating personalized learning experiences—whether I’m teaching online, in person, or between takes on a film set. I earned my Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education Leadership from Bethel University, which enabled me to delve even deeper into how students learn and how we can improve education for everyone. Now, as Dr. Jess Laine, I’m excited to bring all of this experience into the podcast world—sharing stories, strategies, and real talk about what helps students truly thrive. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just curious about how kids learn best, I’m glad you’re here.

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