A new school year brings fresh possibilities, but it can also bring a quick return to the noise, demands, and never-ending to-do lists of education. In this season-opening episode of The Truth About Ed, Dr. Jessica Betz invites educators to begin somewhere deeper: by remembering why they chose this work in the first place.

Jessica explores the difference between what is urgent and what is truly important, why education is more than a profession, and how staying rooted in mission can change the way we teach, lead, and serve. She also introduces themes that will shape the season ahead, including The Self-Weeding Garden, mission over management, and the importance of cultivating schools where both students and educators can flourish.

Before the school year gets too loud, this episode offers a simple challenge: Remember why you started. Know your mission. Stand in truth. Cultivate what is good.

 Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats

Dr. Jessica Betz shares an announcement: The Truth about Ed will be taking a break over the summer to prepare to bring listeners many more episodes in the coming school year in Season 2!

Stay tuned for upcoming episodes where Dr. Betz will continue to dive deep into the classical curriculum and unearth the real truths of education.

What does it take to create schools where students feel safe, supported, and known?

In this episode of The Truth About Ed, Dr. Jessica Betz sits down with Michigan State Police Trooper Thomas Kinnunen to discuss school safety, relationship-building, leadership, and the critical role trusted adults play in the lives of young people.

This conversation goes beyond security measures—it’s about connection, community, and the people who make a lasting difference in our schools.

Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats

Education is never just about curriculum. It is about people. It is about presence. It is about relationships. And it is about the many individuals who walk alongside students, often quietly, shaping who they become. 

Episode Six of The Truth About Ed features a powerful conversation with Deacon Gregg St. John about service, relationships, school culture, and the lasting impact adults can have on students. From his years as a beloved D.A.R.E. officer in local schools to his vocation as a deacon, this episode reflects on what young people truly need today: presence, guidance, faith, and connection. A heartfelt conversation about education, safety, mentorship, and the people students never forget.

Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats

Every teacher has a story. No one becomes a teacher by accident. There is always something that draws them in.

Join Dr. Jessica Betz as she discusses with guest Steve Solinski what draws teachers to the profession and keeps them teaching year after year despite challenges that may be faced. A former teacher of Dr. Betz's who is retiring from the field of education, Steve shares his thoughts on ways to keep teachers invested in teaching future generations.

Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats

God worked, and then He rested. He blessed rest. He made it holy; And Jesus calls us to Him with an invitation for rest.

Join Dr. Jessica Betz as she discusses burnout in education and how teachers and other educational leaders can avoid it, while setting healthy boundaries and taking time to rest when needed, emphasizing how even God Himself rested after undertaking the work of creation.

Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats

Five minutes can build confidence. Five minutes can deepen understanding. Five minutes can change a student’s identity as a writer. And sometimes, five minutes can change a life.

Join Dr. Jessica Betz as she explores diving into writing with students and forming human beings, sharing how important it is to see the individual in front of educational leaders and helping students discover their own voice, their own confidence, and their own potential.

 Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats

Restoring peace begins with restoring dignity.

Tension and division among adults can quietly damage school culture. This episode tackles how leaders can confront bullying behaviors with justice, mercy, and Christ-centered courage.

Reflection question:
How can you model charity and truth when faced with conflict?

Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats

When you know Who called you, you never lead alone.

Leadership in education can be isolating, but it's also sacred space. Dr. Betz explores how solitude can become a place of prayer, renewal and faithful resolve for those called to serve.

Reflection question:
Where do you find God's presence when leadership feels lonely?

Music used: "Electronic Hopeful" by Bopper Beats