In this mini episode I share a few words of advice that come from a very special student. It's a little advice that we all need to hear from time to time. 

In this episode I have a conversation with Alex Calderon.He is the host of the 1stgenteacherlens podcast that talks about issues that concern his identity and other 1st generation students and discusses topics within the education realm. He is also a 7th-grade ELA/S.S. teacher, 1st Generation Latinx American in NYC. He hopes to get involved within the administration field one day.  We discuss his origin story, teaching in NYC, how to handle teacher burnout, and so much more. If you would like to connect with Alex his instagram handle is: Mr. C @1stgenteacherlens

This episode is inspired from a story by a Hall of Fame basketball coach. The power of belief and never giving up on our students matters. We might not always see the effects of our belief right away, but it makes a difference. 

This episode takes a look at advice by author Elena Aguilar and talk about. building resilience through creativity and play. We also talk about courage inside the classroom and making sure that every student is treated fairly.


Here are some rockstar educators that are worth a follow on Twitter.

1. Melisa Hayes @MrsHayesfam

2. Brian Aikens @Insight_Minds

One of the best things about this time of year is that basketball season is winding down and playoffs are beginning. Before the playoffs start though there is senior night. This episode talks about a special senior night and the joy that is found when we celebrate others. When we choose to celebrate others we are brightening up their day and we are also brightening up someone else's day as well.  Check out this mini episode to find out about this special moment!

This episode dives into inspiration that can be found by expanding your circle of people who influence you. Finding individuals that will push you outside of your comfort zone, challenge your views, and spark curiosity and courage within you. The episode also touches upon two things that educators should be doing to help promote mentally healthy and strong students. 

Some of the greatest lessons that we can learn is from the animal kingdom.  This episode dives specifically into the world of geese and a few lessons that we can learn from on teamwork and being there for one another. The school year is long and it is important that we are there to support, encourage, and lift each other up! 

One of the greatest ways that we can grow personally and professionally is through reflection. This episode dives into a few lessons that I was given this week. These lessons can be useful in the classroom with our students or in our own personal lives. These lessons include small things to build a positive school environment, letting others know you care, being careful with the assumptions that we make, and the power of taking action.

As my students will be celebrating the 100th day of school this episode is about how fast time goes and making the most of the moments that we have in our classroom. 

Recently I had a conversation with a close friend, who is also an educator, and we both agreed that we don't want to be consumed by negativity. This conversation stayed on my mind and I listened to the Tim Ferris podcast featuring Sarah Silverman  and she shared a thought about grabbing your joy. Through her inspiration I looked to grab my joy during the work week and within the classroom. This episode is for all the educators who want to keep a healthy mindset and wish to grab their joy!