Welcome to the first episode of 2025! I’m so excited to kick off the year with a solo episode where I’ll be sharing the 7 things I’m taking into 2025. As I reflected on 2024, I realized there were key habits, practices, and lessons that truly worked for me—both personally and professionally—and I want to carry that momentum forward into the new year. In this episode, I’ll be talking about everything, from simplifying systems and embracing technology, to connecting with other teachers, setting boundaries, and cultivating gratitude. I’ll also reveal my word of the year for 2025 and how it’s shaping my goals moving forward. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical tips, or just a fresh perspective, I hope you’ll find something here to take into your own year ahead.

• Rachel reflected on the highlights and lessons from 2024 to carry forward into the new year.
• Embracing reading books on her phone while balancing physical books for family moments.
• Simplifying and automating systems like payments and scheduling, while thoughtfully using AI tools like ChatGPT.
• Staying consistent with weekly YouTube videos to improve video editing skills and share knowledge on collaborative piano.
• Rebuilding piano technique with Hanon exercises and encouraging regular warm-up routines.
• Connecting with other piano teachers through podcasts, social media, and in-person retreats for inspiration and support.
• Setting boundaries by focusing on what I can control and communicating policies clearly.
• Practicing gratitude daily while manifesting goals as if they’ve already been achieved.
• Rachel's word of the year and her upcoming goals for 2025.

Links Mentioned

• Check out the new TopMusic AI Podcast here
• My Music Staff
• Fons
• TopMusicPro Members' Lounge Facebook Group
• TopMusicCo Facebook Group
• TopCast Episode 396: TopMusic Steps to Success in 2025

About Rachel Ehring

Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.

• Visit her website at RachelEhring.com
• Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
• Visit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694
• Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

Thank you for tuning in!

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