Teachers, you know it's gonna be a weird week when you're prepping comedy for a room full of principals—including ones you still have to work with. Am I nervous? Yes. Am I planning to open with “remember your why”? Also yes. Let chaos reign.

This week, I’m sharing my behind-the-scenes prep for the wildest PD gig of my life… plus two fire-filled fan submissions, literally. One backpack goes up in smoke, and another student brings lint specifically to start a fire during class. And no, that’s not a euphemism.

Also, I’ve got two ELA-friendly resources that won’t make you scream into the void, thoughts on classroom routines that actually work, and a major update on my teacher survival guide book (coming soon to save your first year and your mental health).

Fires. Comedy. Forced inspiration. And a dress rehearsal for getting heckled by superintendents. Let’s go.

Takeaways:

I’m performing stand-up for a room full of local principals—and yes, I plan to give them “the gift of time.”

A student lit lint on fire inside a classroom drain. And that’s not even the worst part.

Another student's backpack combusted mid-class—so naturally, he just shrugged and said “You’ll smell smoke.”

A resource that turns writing prompts into a literal game—and somehow still helps students actually write.

I’m writing a book for new teachers that starts with everything I personally screwed up. (You’re welcome.)

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Join our Book Club: www.patreon.com/thosewhocanread

Don’t Be Shy Come Say Hi: www.podcasterandrea.com

Watch on YouTube: @educatorandrea

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The tornado didn’t get us, but this week’s episode might.

After surviving Midwest storm warnings and Shrek-related trauma from a former student with a decade-long vendetta, I’m back with a full breakdown of things you can’t predict in teaching—like a kid gasping for air mid-presentation, or another casually announcing their itchy situation mid-kickball.

We’re talking magic tricks that turn into emotional damage, AI that actually helps (seriously), and the question that won’t leave me alone: should we be forcing students to present in front of the class… even if they stop breathing?

Plus: teacher confessions, wild voicemails, a PE teacher who deserves a raise, and my brain slowly unraveling over Kansas geography.

Takeaways:

A student literally stops breathing in the middle of a class presentation—and that’s not even the wildest part.

The return of the Shrek kid. Yes, he found me again. And yes, he’s still doing magic.

A third grader makes an unforgettable anatomy announcement in the middle of kickball.

I found an AI tool that might actually save you time and sanity in the classroom (and I tested it).

Should we still be making students present in front of their classmates, or is it time for a better way?

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Join our Book Club: www.patreon.com/thosewhocanread

Don’t Be Shy Come Say Hi: www.podcasterandrea.com

Watch on YouTube: @educatorandrea

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What do a lead-painted door, a rubberized body part in a middle school backpack, and the KKK showing up to a school in the ‘80s have in common? Absolutely nothing—except they’re all packed into this episode.

Today, I’m kicking things off solo with chaotic home improvement updates (including which stripper works hardest) and a couple of voice memos from listeners that are… honestly, you just have to hear them to believe them. One will have you gasping, the other might make you text your admin “hazard pay?”

Then, I sit down with the brilliant Charles Fournier—creator of the hit podcast Those Who Can’t Teach Anymore—to talk about why his show is haunting the top podcast charts, how he captured an entire year of real teacher audio diaries, and why his new season might wreck you (in the best way).

If you’ve ever wanted to throw your backpack out a window, doubt your life choices mid-project, or just feel wildly validated in this teaching life—you’re in the right place.

Takeaways:

I tried to fix a door and accidentally launched a home reno nightmare featuring citrus strippers and maybe lead poisoning.

A student brought something to class that no one—NO ONE—was emotionally prepared for.

What happens when you realize your friend's dad is leading a hate rally outside your school?

Charles Fournier returns with raw teacher audio journals and a season that might just gut-punch you into catharsis.

I’m begging you—send me your wildest confiscation stories. Because we might need a dedicated episode.

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Join our Book Club: www.patreon.com/thosewhocanread

Don’t Be Shy Come Say Hi: www.podcasterandrea.com

Watch on YouTube: @educatorandrea

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So, we changed the name. Welcome to How To Survive the Classroom—you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

In this kickoff to the new era, I’m diving into two of the most unhinged teacher submissions I’ve ever heard—one involving a movie mishap that will haunt you and another featuring a hallway hair war that somehow became my own personal reality TV show.

Plus, I’m revealing the AI tool that actually doesn’t feel sketchy (teachers, I got you), bragging on some simulation drama happening at my university, and prepping for a secret meeting with superintendents that may or may not end in tears (theirs, not mine... probably).

If you’re into rogue four-year-olds, teacher gossip, resource hacks, and hearing someone say “nipple” way too many times on a podcast—hi, hello, press play.

Takeaways:

That documentary you downloaded for class? Double-check the title. Seriously.

Find out how my four-year-old gave two teachers a complex with one innocent comment.

A battle between student barbers escalates—thanks to me. And I regret nothing.

The AI tool that’s not sketchy, actually cites its sources, and might save your sanity.

What I’m going to say to a room full of superintendents (yes, I want them to cry a little).

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Join our Book Club: www.patreon.com/thosewhocanread

Don’t Be Shy Come Say Hi: www.podcasterandrea.com

Watch on YouTube: @educatorandrea

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In this week's episode "Managing Bias While Addressing Real-World Issues in Education", I sit down with "America’s Government Teacher" Sharon McMahon, known for her clear, unbiased approach to current events. Together, we discuss the challenges teachers face in today’s polarized environment and how educators can help students think critically, understand media bias, and engage with controversial topics without feeling overwhelmed. Sharon shares personal insights from her years in the classroom and offers advice on maintaining balance while tackling tough subjects in education. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion about the future of teaching and the vital role educators play in shaping young minds.

Takeaways:

Prioritizing Teacher-Student Relationships: The most important thing for students to remember is the relationship they have with their teacher, which goes far beyond any academic lessons learned in the classroom. This focus on relationship-building also contributes to better classroom management and a smoother learning environment.

Managing Teacher Burnout: Teachers should prioritize self-care and set realistic standards to avoid burnout. Suggestions include using pre-made curriculum resources or seeking online platforms like Teachers Pay Teachers or AI-based tools like EduAid and MagicSchool.ai.

Navigating Political Polarization in the Classroom: Teachers often face the challenge of addressing political and social issues without letting bias influence the discussion. It is important for educators to remain neutral and provide balanced perspectives, helping students think critically about the world around them while fostering an inclusive environment.

Access to Resources and Equity: Many schools lack basic resources such as textbooks and even essential supplies like toilet paper. This lack of resources highlights the ongoing inequities in the educational system, and it is important for teachers to find creative solutions to bridge these gaps.

Leveraging Teacher Communities for Support: Teachers are encouraged to seek support from online communities and fellow educators to share resources, ideas, and emotional support to navigate the complexities and challenges of the profession.

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Want to Learn more about Sharon McMahon? 

Instagram / Facebook: @sharonsaysso

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sharonsaysso/

X: @sharon_says_so

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Don’t be shy come say hi: [email protected] and podcasterandrea.com

Watch on YouTube:  @educatorandrea

Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc.

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In this week's episode "In class with a rockstar", I sit down with the multi-talented Jaret Reddick, lead singer of Bowling for Soup and solo country artist. We dive into Jaret’s musical journey, from his pop-punk roots to his new adventures in country music, discuss the importance of educators who see potential in every student, and explore how Jaret balances creativity with vulnerability. Plus, hear how Jarrett’s ADHD and passion for storytelling continue to shape his music and life.

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Want to Learn more about Jaret Reddick? 

X / IG / Threads / FB: @jaret2113

Tik Tok: @jaretreddick

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Don’t be shy come say hi: [email protected] and podcasterandrea.com

Watch on YouTube:  @educatorandrea

Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc.

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In this week's episode "Homework Horror Stories: When Parents Say ‘No Way!", I chat with Gabe Dannenbring about the challenges of modern-day education. From managing work-life balance post-pandemic to evolving classroom dynamics, we explore how teachers and students alike are navigating an ever-changing landscape. Gabe shares his perspective as a middle school teacher, while I bring insights from the university level. Together, we reflect on the impact of the shifting attitudes toward education, homework debates, and what it takes to keep both students and teachers engaged. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on teacher burnout, student resilience, and the delicate balance between structure and innovation in the classroom.

Takeaways:

The Shift in Student Attitudes: Post-pandemic students exhibit a different approach to work-life balance, focusing more on mental health and less on pushing through discomfort.

Homework Debate: Some parents, like the TikTok mom mentioned, are pushing back on excessive homework for young children, raising questions about the balance between school expectations and student well-being.

Classroom Management Challenges: Teachers today are dealing with increasingly chatty, distracted students, but there's a need to push through discomfort and maintain structure.

Teacher Burnout is Real: A recent Wall Street Journal study shows that teacher satisfaction has dropped dramatically, with only 42% of teachers feeling that their job is worth the stress.

The Importance of Doing Hard Things: Andrea and Gabe both highlight the value of resilience and persistence in both teaching and learning, emphasizing the growth that comes from pushing through challenges.

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Want to Learn more about Gabe Dannenbring?

TikTok: @g_unit24

IG / YT / FB: @gabedannenbring

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Don’t be shy come say hi: [email protected] and podcasterandrea.com

Watch on YouTube: @educatorandrea

Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc.

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In this week's episode "Dropped in the Classroom: WTF are State Standards", I'm joined by Valerie Dominy, a high school business teacher and the founder of The Highest Standard. Valerie shares her insights into teaching, from navigating state standards and alternative certification to helping new teachers survive their first years in the classroom. They discuss the importance of parent communication, student relationships, and how administrators can better support educators. Valerie also reflects on her role as a business owner, bridging the gap for alternative certification teachers to feel confident in their profession.

Takeaways:

Navigating State Standards: Understanding and mastering state standards is essential for teachers, especially those from alternative certification programs.

Supporting New Teachers: Schools need to offer real mentorship programs where experienced teachers regularly support new hires, not just for evaluations.

Parent-Teacher Communication: Clear communication with parents can alleviate many classroom issues, building trust and improving student success.

Work-Life Balance: Teachers must set boundaries and take care of themselves to avoid burnout, especially with the pressures of adapting to new curriculum and standards.

Teaching is Ever-Evolving: Whether it’s mastering new standards or adjusting to different student needs each year, teaching is a continuous learning process.

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Want to Learn more about Valerie Dominy?

Instagram: @the_highest_standard_pd

Facebook: The Highest Standard

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Don’t be shy come say hi: [email protected] and podcasterandrea.com

Watch on YouTube: @educatorandrea

Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc.

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In this week's episode "Haunted Classrooms and Mormon Wives", Denver Riley and I tackle the rollercoaster of being a teacher, from Denver’s near-miss with HR over a missing credential to the spooky fun of Halloween in the classroom. But the real fun begins when they hilariously compare the cast of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives to the types of teachers they’d be. Would Demi be the no-nonsense English teacher? Is Jen Affleck the ultimate kindergarten teacher? Tune in to see how these reality stars would navigate the world of education! Alongside the humor, the episode delves into why facing tough situations in teaching leads to growth and resilience.

Takeaways:

Credential Panic is Real: Denver recounts her brush with HR over a missing teaching credential and the importance of staying on top of certifications as an educator.

Comparing Mormon Wives to Teachers: Andrea and Denver bring the fun by imagining which teacher roles the stars of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives would fill. From cheer coach to high school math teacher, the comparisons are both hilarious and spot-on.

Halloween Fun in the Classroom: Spooky season takes over as Denver shares how she incorporates Halloween themes into her teaching, from activities to costumes.

Union Support Matters: Denver discusses how crucial union representation is when facing issues with HR or administration, especially when your job is on the line.

Why the Hard Road Pays Off: Choosing not to take the path of least resistance in the classroom leads to stronger teacher-student relationships and a more fulfilling teaching experience.

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Want to Learn more about Denver Riley?

Instagram: @keepingupwithms.b_

Tiktok: @keepingupwithms.b_

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Don’t be shy come say hi: [email protected] and podcasterandrea.com

Watch on YouTube: @educatorandrea

Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc.

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In this week's episode "Mastering Work-Life Balance in Teaching", I sit down with Natalie Ringold, founder of Always Upper Elementary, to talk about effective teaching strategies and work-life balance. Natalie shares her viral experience teaching kindness, discusses the impact of social-emotional learning (SEL), and explains how structured schedules help her manage time efficiently in a busy classroom. We also touch on the challenges of integrating technology, the importance of setting boundaries, and balancing personal life while being a dedicated educator. If you're looking for practical teaching tips and an honest conversation about the realities of teaching, this episode is for you!

Takeaways:

Effective time management and structured schedules are key to maintaining a work-life balance for teachers.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is essential for teaching students life skills like empathy and resilience.

Setting boundaries, such as leaving work at work, can help prevent teacher burnout.

Digital tools can enhance learning but require careful monitoring to avoid distractions and misuse.

Teachers must collaborate with students to resolve conflicts, encouraging respect even when students have personal disagreements.

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Want to Learn more about Natalie Ringold?

Instagram: @always.upper.elementary

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Don’t be shy come say hi: [email protected] and podcasterandrea.com

Watch on YouTube: @educatorandrea

Listen Anywhere You Podcast: Apple, Spotify, PodChaser, etc.

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A Human Content Production

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