As I wrap up 2025, I’ve been reflecting on the moments, conversations, and discoveries that made this year so meaningful. In this episode, I’m sharing 10 of my favorite things, from standout podcast interviews and inspiring books to teaching resources, conservatory highlights, and the incredible connections I’ve made along the way. It’s a look back at what brought joy, growth, and encouragement to my teaching life this year, and I can’t wait to celebrate it all with you.

1. Rachel shared a look back at her favorite moments and discoveries from 2025.
2. She highlighted episode 68 with Florence Phillips as one of the most inspiring interviews of the year.
3. Connecting with more than 40 podcast guests and learn from their experiences.
4. Rachel shared her admiration for a TopCast episode with David Martin.
5. She highlighted the new podcast The Four 40 with Eric Branner.
6. Her favorite book of the year was Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten.
7. Rachel celebrated Nicola Canton’s new piano method Piano Paint Box.
8. She shared her gratitude for rebuilding a strong, reliable teaching team at her conservatory after a challenging previous year.
9. The value of attending NCKP and connecting with piano teachers from around the world.

Podcast Links Mentioned

1. TopCast 417: Being a SAVVY Music Teacher with David Cutler
2. TopCast 439: From Bankruptcy to 1000 Students with David Martin
3. TopMusic Piano Podcast 068: Piano Behind Bars with Florence Phillips
4. TopMusic Piano Podcast 086: What Happens When You Double Your Rates with Eric Branner
5. Eric’s Podcast:The Fourforty (440) with Eric Branner

Book Links Mentioned

1. Be Ready When the Luck Happens: A Memoir by Ina Garten
2. The Savvy Musician 2.0 by David Cutler
3. 67 Day Year by Shannon Irvine
4. The Piano Paintbox Book Blog Post

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.

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

Thank you for tuning in!

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