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

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

by Jeremy Jorgensen
Education

88. STRONG Teacher Report #1: Community Updates, New Content & What We're Building

STRONG Teacher Report #1: Community Updates, New Content & What We're Building Welcome to the first STRONG Teacher Report—a live update on what we're building together at Why Edify! In this session, I share: ✓ Recent Content Highlights What MLK Jr. Knew About Teaching - https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/what-mlk-jr-knew-about-teaching/ Why Curiosity is a Teacher's Superpower - https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/the-teachers-who-last-are-still-wondering/ 37 Years of Wisdom with Craig Shapiro - https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/teacher-burnout-prevention-37-years-of-classroom-wisdom-with-craig-shapiro/ ✓ STRONG Teachers Lounge Updates We've hit 101 members from around the world! Community discussion: What's your teaching superpower and kryptonite? Introducing The STRONG Year—month-by-month resources for educators ✓ The STRONG Framework Explained S - Successes (celebrate progress, not perfection) T - Thoughts & Takeaways (continuous learning) R - Recovery & Renewal (intentional recharging) O - Optimize (small systemic changes that compound) N - No to Perfectionism (give yourself grace) G - Gratitude & Growth (keep score of what's going well) Join The STRONG Teachers Lounge: A community of educators building sustainable practices together. - https://www.skool.com/the-strong-teachers-lounge-3476/about About Why Edify: Supporting educators and public education. Helping teachers become happier, healthier, and stronger. Newsletter: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter/ 00:00 - Introduction & Why I'm Live Streaming 02:15 - What MLK Jr. Knew About Teaching (Article Highlight) 05:30 - Curiosity as a Teacher Superpower (Podcast) 08:45 - Craig Shapiro Interview Takeaways 12:00 - STRONG Teachers Lounge: 101 Members! 14:20 - Community Discussion: Superpowers & Kryptonite 17:00 - Introducing The STRONG Year (January Module Preview) 21:30 - The STRONG Framework Explained 27:00 - Closing & Call to Action This is a live recording. Audio quality improved from the first attempt (we had a mic issue—classic live stream moment). Thanks for being here! What's your teaching kryptonite? Drop it in the comments! 👇 Mine is repeating directions multiple times. What drains your energy in the classroom? Subscribe for more teacher updates, practical resources, and community building: 💬 Join the conversation in the comments 🔗 Share with a teacher who needs to hear this
Jan 30, 2026
15:54

87. Still Grading at 9 PM? The Science-Backed Strategy That Makes Teaching Sustainable

Still Grading at 9 PM? The Science-Backed Strategy That Makes Teaching Sustainable How to stop grading at 9 PM and finally leave school on time—using science-backed implementation intentions. Still staying late? Checking work email on weekends? Bringing grading home every night? You'll learn the if-then strategy that research shows is 2-3X more effective than willpower or vague goals like "I'll leave on time this year." What are implementation intentions? Specific if-then plans that create automatic teaching habits by linking triggers to actions. Instead of: "I'll grade less at home" (vague goal that fails) Try: "If I finish teaching at 3:30, then I'll grade for 20 minutes before leaving at 4 PM" (implementation intention that works) Why implementation intentions prevent teacher burnout: ✓ Remove decision fatigue (no more 4 PM "should I stay or go?" debates) ✓ Create automatic habits (your brain triggers behavior without willpower) ✓ Bridge the gap between intention and action (where most teaching goals die) ✓ 2-3X higher success rate than traditional goal setting In this episode: - The science behind implementation intentions for teachers - How to create if-then plans for leaving school on time - The 5-step process to build sustainable teaching habits - 4 common mistakes that sabotage your goals - 15 ready-to-use if-then plans for teachers The teaching goal that always fails: "This year I'm leaving on contract time. No more grading at 9 PM. I'm setting boundaries." You mean it. But two weeks in? Same patterns. Staying late. Checking email after dinner. Bringing work home every weekend. The problem isn't willpower—it's weak design. Your brain needs specific triggers and automatic responses. The 5-step process: 1. Identify ONE habit to change - Staying late, checking email at night, saying yes to too many commitments 2. Name the trigger (the "if") - Specific, observable, consistent (e.g., "If the bell rings at 3:30...") 3. Define the action (the "then") - Clear, achievable (e.g., "...then I leave by 4:30") 4. Write it down and rehearse - Visualization strengthens neural pathways 5. Track and adjust - Refine what's not working Examples of implementation intentions for teachers: - If the bell rings at 3:30, then I wrap up within 10 minutes and leave by 4:30 - If I get in my car after school, then I turn off work notifications - If someone emails after 5 PM, then I don't respond until morning - If a student triggers frustration, then I take 3 deep breaths before responding Common mistakes: ✗ Trigger too vague ("when I'm done") ✗ Action too complex (multiple steps) ✗ Not writing it down ✗ Creating too many at once How this connects to the STRONG Framework: This strategy is the "Optimize" pillar—simplify and refine your systems. Implementation intentions transform "I want to change" into "I actually changed." Research shows they increase goal achievement by 200-300% by automating behavior. No willpower required. Stop staying late. Stop grading at 9 PM. You don't need more discipline. You need better systems. Pick one if-then plan this week. Write it down. Watch what happens when your brain has a clear path to follow. Full article with 15 ready-to-use implementation intentions: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/why-your-teaching-goals-fail-and-how-to-fix-them-with-implementation-intentions/ Join The STRONG Teachers Lounge: Build sustainable teaching practices with a community using th
Jan 26, 2026
10:07

86. Teacher Burnout Prevention: 37 Years of Classroom Wisdom with Craig Shapiro

Teacher Burnout Prevention: 37 Years of Classroom Wisdom with Craig Shapiro After 37 years in the classroom, Craig Shapiro knows what separates teachers who burn out from those who thrive for decades. In this conversation, Craig shares hard-won wisdom from nearly four decades as a health and physical education teacher, mentor, and strength coach. We dig into the lessons most teachers learn the hard way—and how to avoid those mistakes. Join The STRONG Teacher's Lounge: ⁠https://www.skool.com/the-strong-teachers-lounge-3476/about⁠ What you'll learn: - Why relationships matter more than perfect lesson plans (and how to build them authentically) - The two career-changing lessons Craig learned from colleagues early on - How to be flexible without losing structure (the "must teach, would like to teach, hope to teach" framework) - Why listening is sometimes more important than fixing - The truth about every student bringing a different lens to your classroom - How to find balance when education tries to consume your entire life - What non-teachers misunderstand about the profession (and how to communicate better with parents) - Craig's daily practice for surviving tough teaching days - Why toxic lunch rooms will destroy your career—and what to do instead Key quotes: "When you close your door, it's you and the kids. That time is so valuable—focus on giving your best during that time." "Your lesson plan is a sketch. Be flexible enough to realize what must I teach first, what would I like to teach, and what would I hope to teach." "Find one positive thing each day. One thing. Some days are just tough—but if you can find that one pebble that makes you feel good, use it as a springboard for tomorrow." About Craig Shapiro: Craig taught for 37 years as a health and physical education teacher, mentor, and strength coach. He's also a nationally ranked powerlifter, certified personal trainer, and author of Dream Big: Stories and Strategies for a Successful Classroom. Now retired from teaching, Craig focuses on personal training, writing, and supporting educators. Resources mentioned: - Atomic Habits by James Clear - https://geni.us/o2Rf - Define Your Why by Barbara Bray - https://geni.us/TXZy3 - Dream Big: Stories and Strategies for a Successful Classroom by Craig Shapiro - https://geni.us/kSnwSk The links above are Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It's a simple way to support the podcast while getting resources that genuinely help. Thanks for making these conversations possible. Join The STRONG Teacher's Lounge: https://www.skool.com/the-strong-teachers-lounge-3476/about Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Weather Check 01:31 Craig's Teaching Journey and Philosophy 04:11 Lessons Learned from Colleagues 09:45 The Importance of Relationships in Education 12:32 Advice for New Educators 19:30 Understanding the Teaching Profession 22:50 Recommended Reads for Educators 26:41 Music and Personal Reflections 29:05 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Educators 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Why Edify Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter 💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit):
Jan 23, 2026
36:45

85. Stay Curious: The One Practice That Prevents Teacher Burnout

Stay Curious: The One Practice That Prevents Teacher Burnout The teachers who burn out fastest? They've stopped wondering. The ones who sustain themselves for decades? They're still curious. In this episode, I break down why curiosity might be the most powerful (and underutilized) tool you have as a teacher—and how to practice it when you're exhausted, overwhelmed, or burned out. What you'll learn: - The 3 research-backed benefits of curiosity (including one that surprised me) - Why teachers lose their curiosity—and how to get it back - 3 simple practices you can start today (even if you're exhausted) - How curiosity connects to the STRONG Framework (T and G pillars) Key quotes: "Curiosity shifts you from judgment to wonder—and that's a game-changer." "You don't have to solve all the mysteries. You just have to stay curious about them." If you're feeling stuck, burned out, or just going through the motions—this episode is for you. Join The STRONG Teacher's Lounge: https://www.skool.com/the-strong-teachers-lounge-3476/about 📬 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/
Jan 20, 2026
14:31

84. Exhaustion ≠ Excellence: The Lie Teachers Are Told

Exhaustion ≠ Excellence: The Lie Teachers Are Told Are you still waiting for someone to say it's okay to leave at contract time? To stop answering emails at night? To say no without guilt? In this episode of the Why Edify Podcast, Jeremy Jorgensen offers a powerful reminder: permission isn’t coming—and that’s okay. Through heartfelt stories and hard-earned wisdom from 26 years in education, he dismantles the myth that exhaustion equals excellence and urges educators to reclaim their time, energy, and humanity. This is your invitation to stop proving you care through burnout and start modeling sustainable teaching. Learn why setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s courageous. And discover how giving yourself permission can inspire others to do the same. Whether you’re a teacher, admin, or lifelong learner, this episode will challenge your assumptions, affirm your worth, and help you build a more sustainable path forward. 🔗 Join the Strong Teachers Lounge — a supportive community for educators committed to doing meaningful work without sacrificing their well-being - https://www.skool.com/the-strong-teachers-lounge-3476/about Takeaways - Teachers often wait for permission to prioritize their health. - The educational system relies on teachers' willingness to blur boundaries. - Many teachers police each other through silent comparison. - Setting boundaries is essential to avoid burnout. - Exhaustion does not equate to excellence in teaching. - Students benefit from teachers who model self-care. - Giving yourself permission can inspire others to do the same. - Building a supportive community is crucial for sustainable teaching. - Teachers need to stop waiting for external validation. - You are worth the time and energy you need to thrive. 📬 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/
Jan 2, 2026
12:45

83. Why Teachers Should Complete a Yearly Review (and How Reflection Builds Resilience)

Why Teachers Should Complete a Yearly Review (and How Reflection Builds Resilience) This episode is about why teachers should complete a yearly review—and why this practice is more than just a feel-good exercise. Recorded at the end of the year, this episode explores how structured reflection can support teacher wellbeing, resilience, and long-term growth. Drawing on research, personal practice, and classroom reality, this conversation makes the case for slowing down, capturing what mattered, and intentionally carrying lessons forward. This episode connects directly to a related article on Why Edify and resources available inside the STRONG Teacher’s Lounge. In this episode, we explore: - Why rest should come before reflection - How yearly reviews help consolidate learning and reduce stress - Research on writing, reflection, and emotional processing - How reflection counters negativity bias and rumination - Practical questions teachers can use to review their year - Why choosing “three words” can bring clarity and closure If this resonates, consider sharing it with a colleague who could benefit from slowing down and reflecting before moving forward. 🔗 Mentioned Resources - Related article: Why Reflection Works: The Science-Backed Case for Teachers Completing a Yearly Review - https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/why-reflection-works-the-science-backed-case-for-teachers-completing-a-yearly-review/ - Why Edify Yearly Review (available inside the STRONG Teacher’s Lounge) - https://www.skool.com/the-strong-teachers-lounge-3476/about 🤝 Community Invitation If you’d like guided support for reflection, goal-setting, and sustainable growth, you’re invited to join the STRONG Teacher’s Lounge—a supportive space where educators reflect together and grow stronger over time. 📬 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/
Dec 28, 2025
9:44

82. Screens, Paper, and the Cost of Speed: Rethinking Learning in a Chromebook Classroom

Screens, Paper, and the Cost of Speed: Rethinking Learning in a Chromebook Classroom This episode began as a blog post—but it’s one of those topics teachers don’t just think about. We feel it every day. In this live-style podcast conversation, we explore the growing tension between screens and deep learning in classrooms filled with Chromebooks, tablets, and laptops. While technology promises efficiency, research suggests that speed can sometimes masquerade as understanding—leaving students with shallow comprehension and reduced focus. This episode isn’t anti-technology. It’s about using screens with intention and reclaiming practices that support attention, cognitive endurance, and meaningful learning. Companion Article: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/why-screens-hurt-learning-dr-jean-twenge-explains-the-chromebook-problem/ Join the STRONG Teachers Lounge: https://www.skool.com/the-strong-teachers-lounge-3476/about In this episode, we explore: - Why screen-based reading often leads to “information grazing” - How paper slows thinking in ways that support deeper comprehension - What research says about reading, memory, and distraction - Practical ways teachers can balance analog and digital tools - Why modeling intentional screen use teaches lifelong focus and agency 🎧 This episode works well as a reflective listen—during a commute, a walk, or a quiet planning moment. If this conversation resonates, consider sharing it with a colleague who’s wrestling with the same classroom tension. 📬 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/
Dec 20, 2025
8:06

81. Small Steps Make STRONG Teachers (Live Reflection on Rest, Boundaries, and Wellbeing)

Small Steps Make STRONG Teachers (Live Reflection on Rest, Boundaries, and Wellbeing) This episode is a live reflection inspired by a recent STRONG Teacher newsletter titled “Small Steps Make STRONG Teachers.” Recorded as a livestream, this conversation looks back on lessons from the 12-Day Winter Reset and reflects on what actually helps teachers stay grounded during demanding seasons. Rather than big overhauls or dramatic change, this episode focuses on small, sustainable steps—rest, presence, creativity, boundaries, and community—that make teaching more human and more livable over time. In this live reflection, we explore: - Why slowing down—even briefly—can create meaningful shifts - How rest, nature, creativity, and presence support teacher wellbeing - Why boundaries are essential (and challenging) for educators - Highlights and insights from the Winter Reset community - What’s next in the Winter Reflection Series Join us in the STRONG Teacher's Lounge: https://www.skool.com/the-strong-teachers-lounge-3476/about 🎧 This episode is best enjoyed as a calm listen—during a walk, a commute, or a quiet moment to reset. If this resonates, consider sharing it with a colleague who could use a reminder that small steps really do matter. 📬 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/
Dec 14, 2025
8:33

80. Feeling Worn Down? How Awe Can Help Teachers Reconnect, Reset, and Stay Strong

Feeling Worn Down? How Awe Can Help Teachers Reconnect, Reset, and Stay Strong Teaching is meaningful—but it can also wear you down. In this episode of the Why Edify Podcast, we explore the awe principle—the idea that noticing small moments of wonder can help teachers restore energy, improve their well-being, and reconnect with why they started teaching in the first place. Drawing from psychology, reflection, and everyday classroom life, this episode offers a calm reminder that awe doesn’t have to be big or dramatic. Sometimes it’s found in the most ordinary moments—if we’re willing to notice. In this episode, you’ll explore: - Why awe is a powerful (and overlooked) tool for teacher wellbeing - How small moments of wonder can build resilience and kindness - Simple ways teachers can practice awe during a busy school day - A reflective question you can carry with you into the week If this episode resonates, consider sharing it with a colleague who could use a reminder to slow down and notice what still matters. If you’re looking for a supportive space to reflect, reset, and grow alongside other educators, you’re invited to join The STRONG Teacher’s Lounge—a community designed to help teachers become happier, healthier, and stronger. Join us - https://www.skool.com/the-strong-teachers-lounge-3476/about 👇 Share this with a colleague, reflect in the comments, and don’t forget to join the Strong Teachers Lounge for more free tools and support. 📬 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/
Dec 14, 2025
7:41

79. Lessons from a Life Well Lived: What My Wife’s Grandmother Taught Me

Lessons from a Life Well Lived: What My Wife’s Grandmother Taught Me A quiet drive home after a celebration of life sparked this reflection on legacy, teaching, and what truly matters. Doris—a quiet force of service, thoughtfulness, and deep family connection. As a teacher, volunteer, and lifelong learner, Doris modeled a way of being that resonates far beyond her immediate circle. This episode explores how her values—consistency, intentionality, generosity, and joyful competition—can inform how we show up in the classroom and in life. Educators and reflective thinkers alike will find something grounding and inspiring here. It's a gentle reminder that our habits, actions, and how we carry ourselves can leave a lasting impression—sometimes more than our words ever could. 🙏 Take a moment to reflect on those who’ve shaped you—and consider how you might carry their lessons forward. ✨ If this message resonates, subscribe for more reflections, share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s continue building a community rooted in purpose and care. 📬 Get Involved: ✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter ☕ Support Why Edify: https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify 🤝 Connect with Jeremy: https://linktr.ee/whyedify 🌐 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/
Nov 24, 2025
7:27
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