We Are Fine

In Episode 12, assistant principal and former fourth-grade teacher Kyle Cohen joins us to talk all things education. From chronic absenteeism and how the Cleveland Browns are trying to help combat this, to the changing face of school leadership, Kyle shares his journey into administration, the struggles educators face, and how schools can better support teachers and students.

Takeaways:

New Wave of School Leadership – Kyle shares how modern administrators are moving away from the "scary principal behind a desk" stereotype and becoming more present in schools.

Chronic Absenteeism is a Crisis – The trio discusses why students are missing more school than ever and what needs to change.

Teachers Need More Support – Education is stretched thin, and overburdened administrators often struggle to be in classrooms where they are needed.

The Power of a Great Teacher – Kyle reflects on the life-changing impact his teacher, Mr. Lader, had on his career path.

Speech and Debate Nerds Unite! – Lauran and Kyle geek out over their shared speech and debate background, proving that some high school activities really do stick with you forever.

Want more Kyle Cohen?

https://linktr.ee/mrkylecohen

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Watch on YouTube: @mrs.woolleyin5th

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

For questions, thoughts, symptoms, and stories, you may contact us at: wearefinepod.com

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Produced by Human Content

In Episode 11, Jordan faces his ultimate punishment: dressing up as a pineapple and eating pineapple pizza. But that’s just the beginning! We are then joined by Principal Jared Lamb and his wife, Brenna, for an insightful and hilarious conversation about education, leadership, and the power of being present in schools.

Takeaways:

Pineapple Pizza Punishment – Jordan pays the price for losing the bet, sitting through the entire episode dressed as a pineapple while eating cold pineapple pizza.

The Power of Presence in Schools – Principal Lam explains why he gave up a traditional office in favor of a rolling cart, making him more accessible to students and staff.

A Science Experiment Gone Wrong – A high school biology experiment involving fire, lighters, and an unexpected classroom disaster almost ended Principal Lam’s teaching career on day one.

Balancing Leadership and Parenting – Brenna shares insights into what it’s like to be married to an educator and how their family navigates school, work, and parenting.

Creating Safe Spaces in Education – Lauran and Jordan discuss the importance of teachers making students feel supported, heard, and valued in and out of the classroom.

Want more Jared and Brenna Lamb?

YouTube: @principal_lamb

Instagram: @principal_lamb & @_the_lamb_fam_

TikTok: @principal_lamb

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Watch on YouTube: @mrs.woolleyin5th

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

For questions, thoughts, symptoms, and stories, you may contact us at: wearefinepod.com

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Produced by Human Content

In Episode 10, we recount our chaotic and unforgettable trip to the White House. From a flat tire disaster in the middle of the Pennsylvania mountains to a horrifying stay at a potential murder hotel, our journey was anything but smooth. Despite the setbacks, we made it to the White House Christmas party, rubbed elbows with big names and soaked in the holiday magic. Plus, Egbert returns in a brand new adventure—this time, he's not just an egg, but a master entrepreneur with a questionable business model.

Takeaways:

Travel Troubles Galore – Lauran and Jordan recount their disastrous road trip to the White House, featuring flat tires, closed auto shops, and a sketchy hotel stay that nearly ruined everything.

The White House Experience – They finally make it to the White House, sharing their awe at the decorations, meeting notable figures, and hearing a speech from President Biden.

Lessons in Taking Time Off – Lauran emphasizes the importance of stepping away from work and enjoying once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

Egbert's Criminal Empire – The latest Egbert adventure sees their fictional egg turning into a kleptomaniac who builds a business empire of stolen goods.

The Power of Perseverance – Despite everything going wrong, Lauran and Jordan reflect on how they managed to turn the trip into an unforgettable memory.

Fire Donation Links:

https://www.calfund.org/

https://unitedwayla.org/

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Watch on YouTube: @mrs.woolleyin5th

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

For questions, thoughts, symptoms, and stories, you may contact us at: wearefinepod.com

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Produced by Human Content

In Episode 9 we are joined by the inspiring and hilarious Jere Chang, aka Miss Chang Gifted. Jere shares her personal journey of living with spina bifida, how it shaped her career in education, and the challenges of navigating life with a hidden disability. We also discuss the pressures faced by gifted students, highlighting the emotional toll of perfectionism and burnout.

Takeaways:

Gifted Education Misconceptions: Jerry explains the difference between giftedness and high achievement, addressing common misunderstandings about neurodivergent students.

The Power of Teachers: Jerry shares her own story of a life-changing teacher, showing how educators can profoundly shape students' futures.

Lunchbox Pranks: Miss Chang’s viral lunchbox pranks, orchestrated by her wife, have captivated audiences with their creativity and humor.

Building Classroom Communities: Jerry emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces where gifted and neurodivergent students can feel seen, heard, and accepted.

Hidden Disabilities: The trio discusses the challenges of living with hidden disabilities and the importance of empathy and understanding in schools.

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Want more Jere Chang?

Tiktok, Instagram, YouTube, & Facebook: @mschanggifted

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Watch on YouTube: @mrs.woolleyin5th

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

For questions, thoughts, symptoms, and stories, you may contact us at: wearefinepod.com

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Produced by Human Content

In Episode 8 we chat with the incredible Nancy Chung, aka Fancy Nancy in 5th, to discuss creative classrooms, cultural exchange in Japan, and how humor builds community in schools.

Takeaways:

Nancy’s Creative Classrooms: Nancy shares how she designs her classroom to feel like a welcoming second home for her students.

Lesson Plan Roulette: Lauran, Jordan, and Nancy hilariously improvise lessons on random topics, like drawing stick figures, making PB&J, and debating pineapple on pizza.

Hogwarts Parody: The group creates a magical parody universe with houses like Gryphonor, Hogglepoof, and Reubenclue — and the school of Piggy Farts.

Teaching in Japan: Nancy discusses her trip to Japan, comparing their education system to the U.S., including a surprising two-year maternity leave policy.

The Power of Humor: Whether through TikTok or teaching games, humor plays a huge role in making classrooms fun and engaging.

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Want more Nancy Chung?

TikTok / Instagram: @fancynancyin5th

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Watch on YouTube: @mrs.woolleyin5th

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

For questions, thoughts, symptoms, and stories, you may contact us at: wearefinepod.com

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Produced by Human Content

In Episode 7 we chat with Kevin McClintock and his wife, Katie, about life after teaching, the challenges and joys of balancing marriage and education, and Kevin’s adventures as a mentor and TikTok personality.

Takeaways:

Life After Teaching: Kevin shares how stepping away from the classroom transformed his life and well-being.

Marriage and Mentorship: Kevin and Katie reflect on how teaching shaped their relationship and the unique dynamic of being married to a teacher.

Hilarious Classroom Stories: From jumping on desks to snowboarding students, Kevin’s tales highlight the unpredictable joys of teaching.

Prioritizing Self-Care: The importance of recognizing burnout and finding new ways to pursue mentorship outside the classroom.

Teaching Lessons Beyond School: How Kevin continues to mentor and inspire his students, even after leaving traditional teaching.

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Want more Kevin and Katie McClintock?

TikTok and IG: @mr.mctiktok

YouTube: Mr. McTikTok & Kevin McClintock.

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Watch on YouTube: @mrs.woolleyin5th

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

For questions, thoughts, symptoms, and stories, you may contact us at: wearefinepod.com

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Produced by Human Content

In Episode 6, we finish telling our engagement story before going into our thoughts about our recent miscarriage experience. We explore the emotional journey of healing through art and connection and share an original song we created. After a tender and emotional segment, we lighten the mood with the return of an Egg-Venture,

Takeaways:

Engagement Secrets Revealed: Lauran and Jordan share how hugs, red flags, and a random valet shaped their proposal story.

Navigating Loss Together: The couple opens up about their miscarriage journey, addressing grief, resilience, and the importance of support.

Healing Through Art: From songs to poetry, they discuss how creativity helped them process their loss.

Egg-Venture’s Return: The AI parenting game gets even more whimsical, featuring an egg named Waffle O’Brien and his magical waffle tree.

It’s Okay to Grieve: A powerful message of hope and understanding for anyone experiencing loss or hardship.

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Watch on YouTube: @mrs.woolleyin5th

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

For questions, thoughts, symptoms, and stories, you may contact us at: wearefinepod.com

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Produced by Human Content

In Episode 5 we chat with the incredible Dr. Jessica Hawk, aka “My Teacher Face.” Jessica shares her journey from teaching high school seniors for 32 years to embracing a vibrant retirement filled with new projects and TikTok fame.

Takeaways:

Life After Teaching: Dr. Jessica Hawk reflects on transitioning from 32 years in education to a fulfilling retirement.

Teaching Realities: The group discusses the unseen struggles of teaching, from overwork to undervalued time.

Retirement Joy: The freedom of retirement allows for hobbies, family time, and even dabbling in commercials.

Personal Growth: Dr. Hawk opens up about therapy, self-discovery, and learning to live authentically post-teaching.

Humor in Education: From transcendentalist lesson plans to thumb wrestling introductions, this episode highlights the lighter side of teaching.

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Want more Jessica Hawk?

Tik Tok / Instagram / Youtube are all @myteacherface

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Watch on YouTube: @mrs.woolleyin5th

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

For questions, thoughts, symptoms, and stories, you may contact us at: wearefinepod.com

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Produced by Human Content

In Episode 4, we dive into one of our most chaotic conversations yet. We recount a wild summer adventure at the White House and welcome our guest, viral teacher and content creator Tyler Jackowski, aka “Fishin4Clout.” Together, we discuss classroom chaos, the importance of humor in teaching, and strategies for surviving a hypothetical classroom apocalypse. From road trip jams to absurd riddles, this episode is packed with nothing and everything!

Takeaways:

Meeting Dr. Jill Biden: Lauran and Tyler reflect on their surreal White House experience and the hilarity that ensued.

Humor in Teaching: Tyler shares his approach to creating a fun and engaging classroom environment that balances learning and laughter.

Skibbity Toilet Madness: The trio hilariously tackles the absurdity of modern student slang and viral trends.

Road Trip Soundtracks: From Blink-182 to George Michael, the hosts and Tyler discuss the ultimate road trip jams.

Classroom Apocalypse Plan: Tyler’s chaotic and fun strategy for surviving an apocalypse with students highlights his humor and creativity.

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Want more Tyler Jackowski?

Tiktok: @fishin4clout

Instagram: @tylerjackowskiofficial

Youtube: @fishin4clout

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Watch on YouTube: @mrs.woolleyin5th

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

For questions, thoughts, symptoms, and stories, you may contact us at: wearefinepod.com

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Produced by Human Content

In Episode 3 we share our experience pitching our startup, Little Tusk, at a Shark Tank-style event—taking home $50,000 in prize money. We give you some insight on our company mission to teach financial literacy to kids and reflect on the challenges and joys of starting a business. Later, we're joined by comedian and former teacher Devin Siebold, who brings his signature humor and heartfelt stories about making an impact in and out of the classroom and talking about using song lyrics as lessons to help shape students.

Takeaways:

Shark Tank Success: Lauran and Jordan share the highs and lows of pitching Little Tusk and their plans to teach financial literacy to kids.

Devin Siebold’s Story: From teaching to comedy, Devin talks about his journey and the power of storytelling in making an impact.

Creativity in Teaching: Devin’s unique methods, like using Metallica lyrics in the classroom, inspire educators to connect with students in meaningful ways.

Teachers as Real People: Devin’s children’s book, The Teacher in the Wild, humorously addresses the mystery of seeing teachers outside of school.

The Power of Giving Back: Devin’s charity work, including his Teacher’s Pet project, highlights the importance of supporting teachers and their furry friends.

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Want more Devin Siebold?

Tik Tok @devincomedy

Everywhere else: @devinsiebold

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Watch on YouTube: @mrs.woolleyin5th

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

For questions, thoughts, symptoms, and stories, you may contact us at: wearefinepod.com

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Produced by Human Content