Educator by day comedian by night!

Welcome back to this week's episode of Hot Mess, where the world of teaching meets the hilarity of everyday life! I'm Jess Smith, and joining me today is the wonderful Andrea Forcum. Buckle up, because we're about to take a deep dive into Andrea's journey from classroom to comedy, and the impact she's made along the way.

Andrea kicks things off with a hilarious recount of attending the Bored Teacher Comedy Tour. A night of laughs, teacher jokes, and getting recognized for the first time! She shares how this experience shaped her approach to comedy, inspired by the likes of Andrea Caspari, and how she artfully treads the fine line of pushing the envelope as a comedian.

Andrea then takes us on a journey back to the start of her teaching career. Imagine transitioning from the grocery store aisles to the school hallways.

She dives into the meaningful change which she is striving to make in the teaching industry and how she's left a lasting impression on her school. She's a staunch advocate against the 'teacher quit Tok' trend, promoting a positive yet realistic perspective of teacher life, addressing the real struggles and obstacles educators face.

And if you've ever wondered about the difference between K-12 and college classrooms, Andrea's got some insights that are as enlightening as they are entertaining.

So, don't miss out on this inspiring and amusing episode of The Hot Mess Teacher Express. Join us as we explore the world of teaching with a twist of comedy. It's an episode that promises laughs, learning, and a whole lot of teacher talk.

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Sibling stories in education!

Hop on board the Hot Mess Teacher Express, where every journey into the world of education is a wild ride! I'm your conductor Jess Smith, and today, I've got a very special guest joining me – my sister, Niki Fisher. Trust me, this episode is not just a family reunion; it's an eye-opening exploration of the education system from a unique perspective.

Niki, a paraprofessional and an unexpected entrant into the world of teaching, brings a fresh, honest, and sometimes hilarious view of life in the school trenches. Homeschooled until her junior year, Niki's leap into public education is a story of adaptation, resilience, and a bit of sibling rivalry.

Join us as Niki shares the nitty-gritty of her day-to-day life supporting students one-on-one, from managing behaviors to the joyous breakthrough moments. It's a peek behind the classroom curtain that you rarely get to see, filled with anecdotes that'll have you both laughing and nodding in sympathy.

But it's not all smiles and storytime. Niki opens up about the challenges she faces, from navigating student behaviors to dealing with the emotional toll that comes with the job. And let's not forget the school hierarchy – it's like a soap opera, but with more bulletin boards.

And of course, what's an episode without a bit of sisterly banter? We'll share our journey from childhood homeschooling to working in education, the highs, the lows, and the unforgettable moments.

So, whether you're a teacher, an educator in the making, or just someone who loves a good behind-the-scenes look at the world of education, this episode of Hot Mess Teacher Express is for you. Tune in for laughs, learning, and a little bit of sisterly love. It's an educational adventure like no other!

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Unlocking the secrets to a fulfilling career in education!

Welcome aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express, the podcast where passion for teaching meets a healthy dose of reality! I'm your host Jess Smith, and today we're exploring the sunnier side of the schoolyard. If you're a teacher who's head over heels in love with your job, or if you're just curious about what keeps educators ticking, this episode is for you.

We're joined by a panel of special guests who aren't just surviving the teaching life – they're thriving in it. Together, we'll dive into the hearts and minds of those educators who wake up each day excited to head to class. What's their secret? How do they keep the spark alive in a profession that's as challenging as it is rewarding?

We'll uncover the common threads that bind these passionate professionals. From the little victories in the classroom to the big-picture joys of shaping young minds, we'll explore what drives these teachers to stick with their calling and remain not just engaged, but genuinely happy in their roles.

But it's not all serious discussions and deep dives. Expect a fair share of laughs, candid stories, and maybe even a few "aha!" moments as we dissect the anatomy of a contented educator.

So, tune in to the Hot Mess Teacher Express and join us on this enlightening journey into teacher engagement and satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, affirmation, or just a good old-fashioned laugh about the trials and triumphs of teaching, we've got you covered. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the secrets to a fulfilling career in education – all aboard for a ride you won't forget!

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The Student Engagement conundrum, Hop aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express, the podcast that celebrates every color of the classroom rainbow, from the perfectly organized to the beautifully chaotic! I'm your host Jess Smith, ready to embark on a thought-provoking journey through the wild world of education.

This week, we're tackling a question that's been keeping educators up at night: Do students actually care about learning anymore? It's a complex issue, with technology at the forefront. In an era where students can Google their way through life, are we witnessing a decline in genuine curiosity and classroom engagement?

I'll delve into the brighter side of tech, exploring how it can actually broaden horizons and foster connections in ways traditional methods never could. It's a double-edged sword, and I'm here to dissect both sides.

Beyond the pixels and screens, there's another elephant in the room: standardized testing. Are we putting too much pressure on young minds, turning what should be a journey of discovery into a high-stakes game of numbers and labels?

Drawing from my own adventures as an educator and a mom, I'll share insights and stories about nurturing that spark of curiosity and passion for learning amidst the tech, tests, and tumult of modern education.

So, tune in to this episode of Hot Mess Teacher Express. It's a journey of discovery, debate, and, as always, a dash of hot mess. Don't miss it!

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Uncovering motivations Beyond The Lesson Plan!

Welcome aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express, the weekly podcast where we celebrate educators and delve into the heart of our impact on students. I'm your host Jess Smith, here to guide you through a thought-provoking journey about the essence of our teaching lives. 

In this episode, we will be tackling a profound, yet often misunderstood question: "What is your why?" This query can feel like a double-edged sword for many educators, sometimes used unfairly against us. But we're flipping the script to uncover how understanding your 'why' can be empowering, providing a sense of purpose and direction, especially in moments when you feel unheard.

We dive into the diverse reasons teachers step into the classroom and why it's crucial to carve out time for this self-reflection. I share my own compelling story of transitioning from a degree in Business Economics to the world of teaching, revealing the passion and motivations that fuel my dedication. We'll also hear from fellow Hot Mess listeners, as they share their heartfelt reasons for choosing this noble profession.

So, join us on this reflective ride on the Hot Mess Teacher Express as we explore the significance of knowing your 'why'. Don't forget to follow us across social media to be part of our vibrant community of educators. 

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We’re diving into empowerment in education!

Welcome back to the Hot Mess Teacher Express, the podcast where we embrace the chaos and find the joy in teaching. I’m Jess Smith, your host and fellow educator, navigating this wild ride we call teaching. Today, I'm joined by a special guest who's here to remind us why, amidst the overwhelming days, teaching is truly a rewarding journey.

Lately, my heart has been feeling the weight of our profession – it's tough out there. But amidst the challenges, I want to reach out to all my fellow teachers and say, you're seen, you're valued, and what you do matters, especially to those district higher-ups.

In this episode, we’re celebrating the little moments, the small joys that add up to make a big difference in our teaching lives. We’re talking about those tiny, yet significant, wins – like the blessing of a nearby bathroom or that trusty hair tie that's always there when you need it.

We're not just surviving; we're thriving with teacher hacks from TikTok, the surprise of snow days, and even the small relief when a parent's voicemail answers instead of them. And let’s not forget the heartfelt hugs from our students – these moments are the real treasures of our profession.

So tune into this episode of Hot Mess and discover the magic in the everyday life of a teacher. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, there's something here to inspire and uplift you. 

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Detective Work After Detention with the Teachers Talk Crime Duo!

Welcome to a spine-tingling yet giggle-inducing episode of Hot Mess. I'm Jess Smith, and today I'm joined by the masterminds behind the riveting Teachers Talk Crime Podcast, Ashleigh Brant and Brooke Ham.

In this episode bone-chilling crime stories meet the hilarity of classroom life. That's right, we're merging the world of unsolved mysteries with teacher tales that are too funny to make up. Ashleigh and Brooke are here to share their journey, from unraveling the mysteries of crime scenes to untangling the puzzles of lesson plans.

We'll get the inside scoop on what sparked this dynamic duo to start a podcast that's part sleuthing, part storytelling. From their bone-chilling cases to the side-splitting classroom anecdotes, Ashleigh and Brooke are serving up a smorgasbord of thrills and spills.

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Spilling the tea on teachers and parents unfiltered…

Welcome aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express! I'm your host, Jess Smith, and oh boy, do we have an episode for you!

Ever wondered what your child's teacher is really thinking? Well, this week, we're breaking the silence with what teachers *wish* they could tell parents. Imagine a world where teacher-parent conferences are a no-holds-barred affair, and the truth flows as freely as coffee in the staff room.

We're diving deep into the digital dilemma of how smartphones are turning our classrooms into wild west saloons, and offering up some pro tips on how to have a rational, adult conversation with your child’s educator. 

So, grab your favorite mug and tune into the Hot Mess Teacher Express. Whether you're a teacher nodding in agreement or a parent ready for some eye-openers, this episode is packed with real, raw, and absolutely unfiltered stories from the front lines of teaching.

And don't forget to join our Hot Mess family on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. There's a whole community of fellow Hot Messes just waiting to welcome you!

Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpress

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It’s time for an intervention in the world of teaching!

In this crucial discussion, we shine a light on our everyday heroes - the teachers. These dedicated individuals tirelessly dedicate themselves to shaping minds, often with limited resources and support. They're the backbone of our education system, yet they face immense challenges daily.

Our children depend on a system that's currently under strain. It's time for change. We need smaller class sizes, adequate resources, fair compensation, and, most importantly, the respect and recognition these educators deserve.

Imagine an education system where teachers are not just heard but uplifted, where their unwavering commitment is met with the support and appreciation it warrants. This episode is more than a conversation; it's a call to action to stand behind our teachers and advocate for a brighter, more sustainable future in education.

Let’s unite in this endeavor as we hop on the Hot Mess Teacher Express and be part of the movement to empower our educators. It's time to make a difference – for our teachers, our children, and our future!

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Climb aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express, let me be your myth-busting maestro! 

👀 Ever heard that half-days are a breeze or that certain weather guarantees a day of chaos? Lies. Sarcasm in the classroom: teaching tool or taboo? Spoiler alert: It's all about the delivery! 

🖨️ Plus, we're taking on the legend of the copier curse - is there really a gremlin inside waiting for the worst possible moment to strike? I have a few thoughts (and maybe a couple of battle scars) to share on that front. 

And for those who think every minute must be measured and monitored, let me make a case for the power of reading for pleasure and the unexpected success of spontaneous lesson plans. Because sometimes, the best-laid plans are the ones you don't make.

Whether you're a teaching veteran or still finding your way, this episode is your antidote to the age-old myths that have been following teachers around for far too long. 

It's time to debunk, laugh, and maybe even learn a thing or two. 

Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpress

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