In this episode, I chat with CJ Reynolds, a West Philadelphia high school literature teacher, author, YouTuber, & public speaker. In his book, Teach Your Class Off, on his YouTube Channel, Real Rap With Reynolds, and on his Podcast, Sunday Night Teacher Talk, Reynolds offers an authentic glimpse into what it looks like to teach high school in the inner city. Using “Real Rap” to share teaching tips and strategies, Reynolds helps new and veteran teachers alike become the teacher they always dreamed of being.

During our conversation, we talked about his usage of rap and hip hop in the classroom. Reynolds points out that this musical culture focuses on things that are “fresh” or relevant and that we, as educators, should mirror this in that we should not try to be cool but strive to be as relevant as possible. He explains that this is only possible by forming authentic relationships while also acknowledging that such practices feel dangerous because we need to be vulnerable and actually invest skin in the game. 

Ready to hear more from one of the keynote speakers for this year’s Teach Better Conference? Let’s go!