The Balancing Act

In this episode, you’ll walk alongside Jamie and co-host Joseph Vitale as they navigate the emotional journey of loss, healing, and remembrance following the passing of Jamie’s mom. Together, they explore the complexities of grief—especially for those in the sandwich generation—and reflect on the deeply personal experience of caring for a loved one during their final days at home. You’ll hear about the power of community support, the importance of leaning on others during difficult moments, and the ways grief can shape your perspective on life and family. This heartfelt conversation honors a mother’s legacy while encouraging you to embrace your own healing journey with compassion and grace.

Season 3 is brought to you by our principal sponsor, Teachers' Insurance Plan. Check out their website below for more information and to get a quote.

http://bit.ly/4mQC27G⁠

Teachers' Insurance Plan: auto insurance that brings exclusive educator savings and exceptional customer care to New Jersey and Pennsylvania educational employees.

Select Episodes from Season 3 sponsored by:

For more information about NJSchoolJobs.com check out their website for up-to-date job postings for teaching, admin, support staff and coaching opportunities.

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In this lively episode of The Balancing Act Podcast, Jamie Wanko and Joe Vitale welcome back tech-in-education expert Merve Lapus for a timely “tech reset” conversation that feels equal parts honest, hopeful, and real-life relatable. Together, they unpack how the post-pandemic rush to integrate technology in classrooms didn’t always come with the training or intention needed to make it truly effective—and why it’s time to rethink when tech actually adds value versus when it just adds noise. Merve brings a refreshingly balanced perspective, pushing back on the idea that technology is either all good or all bad, and instead encourages a thoughtful, “scalpel-not-sledgehammer” approach—especially when it comes to student well-being and social media. The conversation also dives into the very real pressures parents feel, with Merve sharing his own experiences navigating his kids’ digital lives and emphasizing the power of open, judgment-free communication. From gaps in everyday life skills to the growing divide between kids and adults in understanding AI, this episode keeps things grounded while looking ahead, reminding listeners that the goal isn’t to fear technology—but to raise humans who know how to use it wisely, creatively, and with confidence.

Season 3 is brought to you by our principal sponsor, Teachers' Insurance Plan. Check out their website below for more information and to get a quote.

http://bit.ly/4mQC27G⁠

Teachers' Insurance Plan: auto insurance that brings exclusive educator savings and exceptional customer care to New Jersey and Pennsylvania educational employees.

Select Episodes from Season 3 sponsored by:

For more information about NJSchoolJobs.com check out their website for up-to-date job postings for teaching, admin, support staff and coaching opportunities.

We want to hear from you! Shoot over an email and say hi: [email protected]

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In this episode, we sit down with Marcy Samayoa, a Los Angeles chemistry teacher, to unpack her bold “tech reset” in the classroom—and what happened next. After noticing how constant screen time (especially post-pandemic) was impacting her students’ focus and engagement, Marcy made the surprising move to scale back Chromebook use in favor of more traditional, hands-on learning. What she found was pretty eye-opening: more collaboration, deeper thinking, and students who were actually present again. We also dive into her approach to test prep—ditching gamified tools for structured practice and reflection—and her belief that teaching students how to learn matters more than ever. It’s a thoughtful, honest conversation that challenges assumptions about edtech while offering a hopeful look at what classrooms can become when we slow things down and get intentional.

Season 3 is brought to you by our principal sponsor, Teachers' Insurance Plan. Check out their website below for more information and to get a quote.

http://bit.ly/4mQC27G⁠

Teachers' Insurance Plan: auto insurance that brings exclusive educator savings and exceptional customer care to New Jersey and Pennsylvania educational employees.

Select Episodes from Season 3 sponsored by:

For more information about NJSchoolJobs.com check out their website for up-to-date job postings for teaching, admin, support staff and coaching opportunities.

We want to hear from you! Shoot over an email and say hi: [email protected]

Don’t forget to subscribe! Leave us a comment! 

Follow 

Facebook - podbalact JoeandJamie

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Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Balancing Act Podcast, we’re joined again by Jessica Hawk, who shares her journey from a 32-year teaching career into full-time content creation—and what that transition has revealed about the value of educators beyond the classroom. We keep things real (and a little nostalgic) as we reflect on the shift from pre-tech classrooms to today’s device-filled learning environments, unpacking both the benefits and the challenges that come with it. Jessica brings a thoughtful perspective on why critical thinking, authentic connections, and depth of learning matter now more than ever, especially as teachers navigate burnout, increased demands, and the realities of screen-heavy classrooms. We also dip into the role of AI in education—what excites us, what concerns us, and where we need to stay grounded. It’s an important conversation, but one that stays true to our style: honest, practical, and rooted in the joy (and complexity) of teaching.

Season 3 is brought to you by our principal sponsor, Teachers' Insurance Plan. Check out their website below for more information and to get a quote.

http://bit.ly/4mQC27G⁠

Teachers' Insurance Plan: auto insurance that brings exclusive educator savings and exceptional customer care to New Jersey and Pennsylvania educational employees.

Select Episodes from Season 3 sponsored by:

For more information about NJSchoolJobs.com check out their website for up-to-date job postings for teaching, admin, support staff and coaching opportunities.

We want to hear from you! Shoot over an email and say hi: [email protected]

Don’t forget to subscribe! Leave us a comment! 

Follow 

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In this special 100th episode of The Balancing Act, we celebrate in style from the New Jersey Hall of Fame—and yes, it feels just as cool as it sounds. We take a trip down memory lane, from recording in a kitchen with one microphone (and plenty of background noise) to building a podcast shaped by incredible guests and a supportive education community. Along the way, we share some laughs, reflect on how far we’ve come, and highlight ideas that have inspired us in and out of the classroom. We also tease what’s ahead, including exciting conversations about technology in education. Most of all, this episode is a big thank you to our listeners for being part of the journey—and we’re just getting started. 

Season 3 is brought to you by our principal sponsor, Teachers' Insurance Plan. Check out their website below for more information and to get a quote.

http://bit.ly/4mQC27G⁠

Teachers' Insurance Plan: auto insurance that brings exclusive educator savings and exceptional customer care to New Jersey and Pennsylvania educational employees.

Select Episodes from Season 3 sponsored by:

For more information about NJSchoolJobs.com check out their website for up-to-date job postings for teaching, admin, support staff and coaching opportunities.

Interested in Giving Lesson Launchpad a try?  Don’t forget to use our code “Balance” for $5 off a yearly subscription.  Lesson Launchpad - Plan. Present. Automate.  www.lessonlaunchpad.com

We want to hear from you! Shoot over an email and say hi: [email protected]

Don’t forget to subscribe! Leave us a comment! 

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In this episode of The Balancing Act, we welcome back Mitch Weathers and chat with Sarah Oberle about their new book, Executive Functions for Every K-3 Classroom, diving into the critical role executive functioning plays in young learners. We keep things light and relatable while unpacking how skills like focus, self-regulation, and impulse control develop—and why kids aren’t misbehaving, they’re still learning how to learn. The conversation blends practical classroom strategies with real-life moments, showing how small changes in routines and environment can make a big difference. We also explore how to recognize when students may need extra support without jumping to conclusions. It’s a fun but meaningful discussion that leaves educators and parents with simple, actionable ways to better support kids from the start.

Check out the new release from Mitch and Sarah. 

Executive Functions for Every K-3 Classroom: Promoting Self-Regulation for a Strong Start

Looking for Mitch’s first book?  See the link below!

Executive Functions for Every Classroom, Grades 3-12: Creating Safe and Predictable Learning Environments

Season 3 is brought to you by our principal sponsor, Teachers' Insurance Plan. Check out their website below for more information and to get a quote.

http://bit.ly/4mQC27G⁠

Teachers' Insurance Plan: auto insurance that brings exclusive educator savings and exceptional customer care to New Jersey and Pennsylvania educational employees.

Select Episodes from Season 3 sponsored by:

For more information about NJSchoolJobs.com check out their website for up-to-date job postings for teaching, admin, support staff and coaching opportunities.

Interested in Giving Lesson Launchpad a try?  Don’t forget to use our code “Balance” for $5 off a yearly subscription.  Lesson Launchpad - Plan. Present. Automate.  www.lessonlaunchpad.com

We want to hear from you! Shoot over an email and say hi: [email protected]

Don’t forget to subscribe! Leave us a comment! 

Follow 

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In this episode of The Balancing Act, we blend humor and real life as we swap stories—from a much-needed raspberry Snapple boost to saying goodbye to a trusty old car and even a beloved classroom pencil sharpener. We dive into the emotional rollercoaster of parenting teens through the college decision process, sharing both the stress and the perspective we try to keep. Along the way, we lighten things up with memories from our own college days and how different things feel for students today. We also open up about the challenges of balancing work, family, and caregiving during difficult times. Through it all, we focus on staying connected, finding the humor, and doing our best to balance it all.

Season 3 is brought to you by our principal sponsor, Teachers' Insurance Plan. Check out their website below for more information and to get a quote.

http://bit.ly/4mQC27G⁠

Teachers' Insurance Plan: auto insurance that brings exclusive educator savings and exceptional customer care to New Jersey and Pennsylvania educational employees.

Select Episodes from Season 3 sponsored by:

For more information about NJSchoolJobs.com check out their website for up-to-date job postings for teaching, admin, support staff and coaching opportunities.

Interested in Giving Lesson Launchpad a try?  Don’t forget to use our code “Balance” for $5 off a yearly subscription.  Lesson Launchpad - Plan. Present. Automate.  www.lessonlaunchpad.com

We want to hear from you! Shoot over an email and say hi: [email protected]

Don’t forget to subscribe! Leave us a comment! 

Follow 

Facebook - podbalact JoeandJamie

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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we engage with Gillian Ober, the 2026 New Jersey Teacher of the Year, as she shares her inspiring journey from undecided college student to passionate educator. We delve into her experiences teaching abroad in Spain and Thailand, which ignited her commitment to education and shaped her teaching philosophy, particularly concerning multilingual learners. Jillian discusses the complexities of teaching English Language Learners (ELLs) and the importance of changing mindsets among educators to recognize the strengths ELL students bring. She highlights her advocacy work with the New Jersey Department of Education, focusing on supporting multilingual learners and the need for professional development across all teaching staff. The conversation blends serious educational insights with light-hearted anecdotes, culminating in Gillian's vision for a more inclusive educational landscape that honors the diversity within our classrooms.

Season 3 is brought to you by our principal sponsor, Teachers' Insurance Plan. Check out their website below for more information and to get a quote.

http://bit.ly/4mQC27G⁠

Teachers' Insurance Plan: auto insurance that brings exclusive educator savings and exceptional customer care to New Jersey and Pennsylvania educational employees.

Select Episodes from Season 3 sponsored by:

For more information about NJSchoolJobs.com check out their website for up-to-date job postings for teaching, admin, support staff and coaching opportunities.

Interested in Giving Lesson Launchpad a try?  Don’t forget to use our code “Balance” for $5 off a yearly subscription.  Lesson Launchpad - Plan. Present. Automate.  www.lessonlaunchpad.com

We want to hear from you! Shoot over an email and say hi: [email protected]

Don’t forget to subscribe! Leave us a comment! 

Follow 

Facebook - podbalact JoeandJamie

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Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we examine the challenges of self-care for educators, particularly women, as they juggle multiple roles at home and in the classroom. We discuss the mental load and guilt associated with prioritizing personal well-being amidst end-of-year responsibilities. Highlighting systemic issues like weaponized incompetence, we share personal stories of finding joy while navigating demands. Ultimately, we stress the importance of recognizing mental load, advocating for better support, and encouraging guilt-free self-care.

Season 3 is brought to you by our principal sponsor, Teachers' Insurance Plan. Check out their website below for more information and to get a quote.

http://bit.ly/4mQC27G⁠

Teachers' Insurance Plan: auto insurance that brings exclusive educator savings and exceptional customer care to New Jersey and Pennsylvania educational employees.

Select Episodes from Season 3 sponsored by:

For more information about NJSchoolJobs.com check out their website for up-to-date job postings for teaching, admin, support staff and coaching opportunities.

Interested in Giving Lesson Launchpad a try?  Don’t forget to use our code “Balance” for $5 off a yearly subscription.  Lesson Launchpad - Plan. Present. Automate.  www.lessonlaunchpad.com

We want to hear from you! Shoot over an email and say hi: [email protected]

Don’t forget to subscribe! Leave us a comment! 

Follow 

Facebook - podbalact JoeandJamie

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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the BalancingAct podcast, our hosts speak with Dr. Allison Hitchens, a doctoral graduate specializing in teacher burnout and mentoring novice educators. We discuss the challenges faced by teachers, particularly during the pandemic and in rural areas, and the systemic issues contributing to high attrition rates. Dr. Hitchens advocates for redefined mentorship that focuses on emotional support and resilience rather than just instructional methods. The episode also addresses the "reality shock" novice teachers encounter and the need for supportive networks. 

Check out some of the articles that we discussed in our chat:

Teacher Self-Care Mandates as Institutional Gaslighting in a Neoliberal System - Alyssa Hadley Dunn

The Professional Life Cycle of Teachers - Michael Huberman

Season 3 is brought to you by our principal sponsor, Teachers' Insurance Plan. Check out their website below for more information and to get a quote.

http://bit.ly/4mQC27G⁠

Teachers' Insurance Plan: auto insurance that brings exclusive educator savings and exceptional customer care to New Jersey and Pennsylvania educational employees.

Select Episodes from Season 3 sponsored by:

For more information about NJSchoolJobs.com check out their website for up-to-date job postings for teaching, admin, support staff and coaching opportunities.

Interested in Giving Lesson Launchpad a try?  Don’t forget to use our code “Balance” for $5 off a yearly subscription.  Lesson Launchpad - Plan. Present. Automate.  www.lessonlaunchpad.com

We want to hear from you! Shoot over an email and say hi: [email protected]

Don’t forget to subscribe! Leave us a comment! 

Follow 

Facebook - podbalact JoeandJamie

Instagram - @podthebalancingact

TikTok - @thebalancingactpodcast

Twitter - @podbalact

Youtube Channel - The Balancing Act - YouTube
Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices