Welcome to Chalkboard and Chill!

In this week’s episode, Tom and Larrissa turn the staff room into an advice column, stepping in as the unofficial agony aunt and uncle to tackle real dilemmas sent in by teachers. After a classic catch-up (covering housing stress, renovations, The Sims chaos, and some very niche celebrity chat), they dive into the questions that so many teachers quietly worry about.

The pair talk honestly about imposter syndrome, bad lessons that linger longer than they should, and how to actually switch off after a tough day — with realistic advice that goes beyond self-care clichés. They share practical coping strategies, from asking for help and joint planning to being honest with classes and finding small moments of calm when emotions run high.

The conversation also explores the awkwardness of staff rooms, how teacher friendships really form, and why counting down to the holidays is less of a failing and more of a survival instinct. The episode wraps up with pits and peaks, featuring mock-marking pressure, school trips, poetry conferences, pantomimes, and a surprising amount of X Factor nostalgia.

A warm, funny, and reassuring listen for anyone in education — especially if you’ve ever felt like you’re the only one struggling (spoiler: you’re not).

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