Let’s keep it real—teaching in urban schools can feel like a rollercoaster some days. But what if I told you that the secret to managing behavior and building a thriving classroom is all about your energy, mindset, and the respect you show your students?

In this episode, I’m bringing the high-energy brilliance of Rodrick Johnson, the Energized Educator, to the mic. Together, we dig into what it takes to flip the script on classroom management and create spaces where students feel seen, heard, and ready to show up as their best selves.

Here’s what you’ll get:

This isn’t about adding more to your plate—it’s about rethinking how you show up and leaning into the magic already in your room. Roderick will have you laughing, reflecting, and walking away with a toolbox full of strategies to finally tackle those classroom challenges with confidence and joy.

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I really don't have much to say here, I just hope you listen to this, and then listen to it again...because this is everything I needed to hear BEFORE I stepped into a classroom, and what every educator in a classroom needs to hear RIGHT NOW!

Teaching is hard, but creating a student-centered classroom doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we chat with Dr. Courtney Rose, assistant teaching professor and author, about the power of teacher identity, student voice, and co-creating classrooms that empower everyone. We explore:

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Want to talk through ideas like this LIVE! On January 14th, 2025 I am hosting a free webinar, The Answer is in Your Classroom, register to join us!

In this episode, we’re sharing how you can transform your teaching and classroom culture with actionable strategies that bring joy, balance, and purpose back to your work.

Don't forget to register for our upcoming Free Webinar: The Answer is In Your Classroom: Building the Classroom Culture of Your Dreams, happening January 14, 2025, designed to help you thrive as an educator without burning out!

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Thanks for tuning in to the Black on Black Education Podcast. If today’s episode hit home, like, comment, share, and subscribe to the podcast and make sure the teacher who get it find the podcast .

In this episode of the Black on Black Education podcast, I’m introducing the B.O.B.E Framework—a powerful tool to help you shift to a student-centered mindset. We’ll dive into why curiosity, open communication, community building, and continuous growth are key to creating supportive and engaging classrooms.

I’ll also reintroduce the Teacher Action Board, a community built to give educators like you the coaching, resources, and support needed to implement these practices. Plus, I’ll share the exciting bonuses available for joining by December 31st. If you’re ready to invest in equitable, joyful classrooms, this episode is for you!

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In this episode of the Black on Black Education podcast, Rob, an eighth-grade ELA educator, discusses the significance of student-centered education. He emphasizes the importance of listening to students, navigating literacy challenges, and creating safe spaces in the classroom. Rob shares his experiences in implementing student-centered practices, the role of identity in teaching, and the power of poetry to engage students. Through feedback and choice, he aims to foster a supportive learning environment that empowers students to express themselves and develop critical thinking skills. In this conversation, Evalaurene Jean-Charles discusses the importance of authenticity in education, the power of poetry as a means of connection, and the healing journey of writing. She shares insights on her upcoming book, 'Lay Me Down to Sleep,' and emphasizes the significance of literacy in empowering students. The dialogue highlights the role of educators in creating safe spaces for students and the transformative power of sharing personal stories and experiences.

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We are at the point in the year when the foundation we've set in our schools and classrooms shows it's strength and highlights the cracks. Instead of crawling to winter recess burned out, too tired to enjoy the break, let's use our student-centered practice to help us strengthen our school and classroom culture so we go into break feeling joyful, and connected to our students, and our work; and come back ready to start 2025 strong.

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This week on the ILP podcast we talk about why we SHOULDN'T wait until January 1st to reset and do the things you've been saying you are going to do for however long. If you have a laundry list of things that you've been saying you are going to do and they've been nagging at you for a while, and making you feel bad about yourself, this episode if for you!

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Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you are gearing up for a great food, good company and a reminder of the deep importance of finding gratitude for the work we get to do for young people everyday. On today's episode, I share 7 of things I'm most grateful for in teaching and actualizing Black on Black Education's mission. Additionally, this episode serves as a reminder to all of us to learn and grow in how we acknowledge and support the indigenous community during this time. Although for many of us the meaning of Thanksgiving has change, the history is one that cannot be forgotten or dismissed because the oppressive systems that Black and Brown folks are working to dismantle are unequivocally linked to those of our indigenous brothers and sisters. Below are a few resources to help you focus on gratitude, today and everyday and an incredible post that serves as a starting point for learning about the history of thanksgiving, and the real consequences of the continued propaganda associated with the holiday.

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The name of this episode tells it all. On today's episode of the ILP podcast, I focus on the crucial need for teachers to take your Paid Time Off (PTO) to rest and rejuvenate and maintain a happy and healthy lifestyle. I give you ideas of how to utilize PTO days effectively, whether for relaxation, personal hobbies, or connecting with loved ones. Teaching is stressful and we must remember that well-rested and happy teachers that take their days are more effective than burnout and tired ones that are there everyday.

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