We Didn't Know What We Didn't Know--Stories of Teaching Over Three Decades

In this episode of We Didn’t Know What We Didn’t Know, Sue and Lisa tackle the challenges teachers face in the age of screens. From the days of three-channel TVs and foil-covered rabbit ears to the overwhelming presence of iPads and smartphones, the duo humorously discusses how students’ brains have become wired like video games. They share stories of kids unable to hold scissors but mastering Minecraft, navigating parental denial, and the addictive power of screens. Full of laughs, insights, and nostalgic nods, this episode explores how the classroom and our homes have transformed and the impact of technology on today’s students.

#TheyDontPayMeEnoughForThis, #IGiveUp, #HandsToYourself,
#WhyDoIBotherDressingUp, #WhatItsAllAbout, #LessonPlan, #BathroomBreak, #DanielsonModel, #TryingToBeNice, #StopTheWorldIWantToGetOff, #WeDidntKnow, #WeDidntKnowWhatWeDidntKnow, #StressedTeacher, #funny,
#NiceTry #StillFail #elementaryHumor, #DoAsISayNotAsIDo , #AForEffort, #IsItSummerYet, #ImHip #CoolTeacher, #WhyIsThisSticky, #ClassPets

Please contact us with comments or questions at [email protected].

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueandLisa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedidntknowpodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgpsWcy93XJpleqVCML4IBQ

Thanks for listening! -Sue and Lisa

#teacherlife #teachersofinstagram #teacher #iteach #teachers #iteachtoo #funnyteacherstories #education #teaching #school #teach #teacherstyle #classroom #teacherretirement #teachertribe #learning #teacherproblems #students #elementaryteacher #primaryteacher #cryingteachers #elementary #thirdgrade #fourthgrade #fifthgrade #cryinginmycar #teacherfunny #ageism #proudtoteach #teachermamas #recessduty

On today's episode, Sue and Lisa take a humorous dive into the quirks of being early birds versus night owls, especially in the chaotic world of elementary school teaching. They uncover the morning growls, caffeine-fueled sprints, and Cosmic brownies that defined their decades in the classroom. One of them is a chipper early bird, sipping coffee at dawn, while the other is a night owl who considers 7:30 AM an ungodly hour. Along the way, they share hilarious tales of racing to school, the perils of teaching after lunch, and why it’s best to avoid them before their morning stretch. Whether you’re up with the sun or burning the midnight oil, this episode is for you!

#TheyDontPayMeEnoughForThis, #IGiveUp, #HandsToYourself,
#WhyDoIBotherDressingUp, #WhatItsAllAbout, #LessonPlan, #BathroomBreak, #DanielsonModel, #TryingToBeNice, #StopTheWorldIWantToGetOff, #WeDidntKnow, #WeDidntKnowWhatWeDidntKnow, #StressedTeacher, #funny,
#NiceTry #StillFail #elementaryHumor, #DoAsISayNotAsIDo , #AForEffort, #IsItSummerYet, #ImHip #CoolTeacher, #WhyIsThisSticky, #ClassPets

Please contact us with comments or questions at [email protected].

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueandLisa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedidntknowpodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgpsWcy93XJpleqVCML4IBQ

Thanks for listening! -Sue and Lisa

#teacherlife #teachersofinstagram #teacher #iteach #teachers #iteachtoo #funnyteacherstories #education #teaching #school #teach #teacherstyle #classroom #teacherretirement #teachertribe #learning #teacherproblems #students #elementaryteacher #primaryteacher #cryingteachers #elementary #thirdgrade #fourthgrade #fifthgrade #cryinginmycar #teacherfunny #ageism #proudtoteach #teachermamas #recessduty

Today on We Didn’t Know What We Didn’t Know, Lisa and Sue thank their lucky stars they're not at Teacher Back Day—five days of mandatory bonding, awkward wellness activities, and the ever-looming threat of budget cuts. School district workers were told that the district may need to "let go" up to 300 new hires if another referendum doesn't pass in November. Is this a fair way to fund a business?  

They couldn’t help but laugh, (or they'd cry) thinking about how “welcome back, you’re fired?” could become a potential new slogan. Ah, the good old days when Teacher Back Day meant sitting in an auditorium, listening to motivational speeches while secretly calculating how quickly they could escape to their classrooms.

Now, apparently, it's all about wellness. Nothing says 'welcome back' like yoga in a hot, sweaty wrestling gym that smells like teenage angst. Sue's personal favorite? The time she threw up on the cement after overheating during a 'relaxing' yoga session.

But seriously, teaching is one of the hardest jobs out there, and they tip their hats to all of you still doing it. Just remember, while you're molding those young minds, some are enjoying retirement—minus the moldy blueberries.

#TheyDontPayMeEnoughForThis, #IGiveUp, #HandsToYourself,
#WhyDoIBotherDressingUp, #WhatItsAllAbout, #LessonPlan, #BathroomBreak, #DanielsonModel, #TryingToBeNice, #StopTheWorldIWantToGetOff, #WeDidntKnow, #WeDidntKnowWhatWeDidntKnow, #StressedTeacher, #funny,
#NiceTry #StillFail #elementaryHumor, #DoAsISayNotAsIDo , #AForEffort, #IsItSummerYet, #ImHip #CoolTeacher, #WhyIsThisSticky, #ClassPets

Please contact us with comments or questions at [email protected].

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueandLisa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedidntknowpodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgpsWcy93XJpleqVCML4IBQ

Thanks for listening! -Sue and Lisa

#teacherlife #teachersofinstagram #teacher #iteach #teachers #iteachtoo #funnyteacherstories #education #teaching #school #teach #teacherstyle #classroom #teacherretirement #teachertribe #learning #teacherproblems #students #elementaryteacher #primaryteacher #cryingteachers #elementary #thirdgrade #fourthgrade #fifthgrade #cryinginmycar #teacherfunny #ageism #proudtoteach #teachermamas #recessduty

In this laugh-out-loud short, our 50th episode, (!) retired educators Sue and Lisa dive into the absurd yet hilarious idea of a nursing home exclusively for retired teachers. Imagine ex-principals thinking they are running the place, while residents engage in wheelchair races, balloon volleyball, and GoNoodle brain breaks. Hallways are adorned with blue pocket charts displaying daily schedules, and every meal feels like a nostalgic trip to the school cafeteria—complete with plastic trays and the obligatory "May I be excused?" Decor competitions are fierce, with doors decked out for every holiday.  The laminator is always on and ready for residents to plasticize ANYTHING! The duo muses about continuing their podcast in their golden years, but calling it, “Get Me Outta Here.” Blending summer camp vibes with educator quirks, this imagined nursing home is a new take on retirement. It's a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the lighter side of teaching!

#TheyDontPayMeEnoughForThis, #IGiveUp, #HandsToYourself,
#WhyDoIBotherDressingUp, #WhatItsAllAbout, #LessonPlan, #BathroomBreak, #DanielsonModel, #TryingToBeNice, #StopTheWorldIWantToGetOff, #WeDidntKnow, #WeDidntKnowWhatWeDidntKnow, #StressedTeacher, #funny,
#NiceTry #StillFail #elementaryHumor, #DoAsISayNotAsIDo , #AForEffort, #IsItSummerYet, #ImHip #CoolTeacher, #WhyIsThisSticky, #ClassPets

Please contact us with comments or questions at [email protected].

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueandLisa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedidntknowpodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgpsWcy93XJpleqVCML4IBQ

Thanks for listening! -Sue and Lisa

#teacherlife #teachersofinstagram #teacher #iteach #teachers #iteachtoo #funnyteacherstories #education #teaching #school #teach #teacherstyle #classroom #teacherretirement #teachertribe #learning #teacherproblems #students #elementaryteacher #primaryteacher #cryingteachers #elementary #thirdgrade #fourthgrade #fifthgrade #cryinginmycar #teacherfunny #ageism #proudtoteach #teachermamas #recessduty

In their 49th podcast episode, "The Teacher Brain—Blessing or Burden?", hosts Sue and Lisa dive into the eternal struggle of turning off the "teacher brain." From accidentally organizing strangers' children at the park to obsessing over classroom supplies, these retired teachers can't help but see the world through an educational lens. They recount a failed attempt at a perfectly planned birthday party, share funny anecdotes about summer jobs, and explore how their ingrained teaching instincts still pop up in daily life. They even have a fantastic SPEED ROUND of teacher brain triggers.  Whether it's resisting the urge to correct misbehaving kids in public or collecting rocks for potential lessons that no longer exist, their teacher brains never truly turn off.

Here is the link for Sixty and Me, mentioned in this podcast:
https://sixtyandme.com/outrageous-signs-of-aging/

(Please share your teacher brain stories by email: [email protected].  We hope to use your story on a future podcast.)

#TheyDontPayMeEnoughForThis, #IGiveUp, #HandsToYourself,
#WhyDoIBotherDressingUp, #WhatItsAllAbout, #LessonPlan, #BathroomBreak, #DanielsonModel, #TryingToBeNice, #StopTheWorldIWantToGetOff, #WeDidntKnow, #WeDidntKnowWhatWeDidntKnow, #StressedTeacher, #funny,
#NiceTry #StillFail #elementaryHumor, #DoAsISayNotAsIDo , #AForEffort, #IsItSummerYet, #ImHip #CoolTeacher, #WhyIsThisSticky, #ClassPets

Please contact us with comments or questions at [email protected].

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueandLisa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedidntknowpodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgpsWcy93XJpleqVCML4IBQ

Thanks for listening! -Sue and Lisa

#teacherlife #teachersofinstagram #teacher #iteach #teachers #iteachtoo #funnyteacherstories #education #teaching #school #teach #teacherstyle #classroom #teacherretirement #teachertribe #learning #teacherproblems #students #elementaryteacher #primaryteacher #cryingteachers #elementary #thirdgrade #fourthgrade #fifthgrade #cryinginmycar #teacherfunny #ageism #proudtoteach #teachermamas #recessduty

In this episode we join Lisa, who’s fresh back from a serene Portugal trip, but now reeling from eye surgery. Despite Lisa's "bloody eye" issues, she’s ready to dive into the day's topic: the mythical Teacher’s Lounge. It’s not just a place; it's an institution filled with characters straight out of a sitcom.

Remember the "lounge lizard"? The veteran teacher lounging like a lizard on a hot rock, flipping through outdated magazines? Or the "negative Nelly," who could find something wrong with a free vacation? And let's not forget the "corner spy," who listened more than talked, ready to report the latest gossip.

As Sue and Lisa reminisce, we hear about the infamous "wild west" vibe of the downstairs lounge, where entering as an outsider was like walking into a saloon full of silent, staring locals. And then there’s the epic saga of missing silverware. Apparently, if you wanted to find your long-lost forks, you just needed to clean out Sue's desk.

In between laughing fits, the duo laments the loss of the lounge to the demands of modern education. No more stolen puzzle pieces or questionable microwave smells. But the memories of shared Dilly Bars, covert gossip, and stress-eating half-gallons of ice cream in the corner remain.

They capture what happens when teachers, in desperate need of a break, find humor in the little things—like scavenging Freezy Pops from 1988 or fighting over the last cup of decent coffee. So, tune in, and laugh along with Sue and Lisa as they celebrate the highs and lows of life in the Teacher’s Lounge, where sanity is optional, but laughter is guaranteed.

#TheyDontPayMeEnoughForThis, #IGiveUp, #HandsToYourself,
#WhyDoIBotherDressingUp, #WhatItsAllAbout, #LessonPlan, #BathroomBreak, #DanielsonModel, #TryingToBeNice, #StopTheWorldIWantToGetOff, #WeDidntKnow, #WeDidntKnowWhatWeDidntKnow, #StressedTeacher, #funny,
#NiceTry #StillFail #elementaryHumor, #DoAsISayNotAsIDo , #AForEffort, #IsItSummerYet, #ImHip #CoolTeacher, #WhyIsThisSticky, #ClassPets

Please contact us with comments or questions at [email protected].

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueandLisa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedidntknowpodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgpsWcy93XJpleqVCML4IBQ

Thanks for listening! -Sue and Lisa

#teacherlife #teachersofinstagram #teacher #iteach #teachers #iteachtoo #funnyteacherstories #education #teaching #school #teach #teacherstyle #classroom #teacherretirement #teachertribe #learning #teacherproblems #students #elementaryteacher #primaryteacher #cryingteachers #elementary #thirdgrade #fourthgrade #fifthgrade #cryinginmycar #teacherfunny #ageism #proudtoteach #teachermamas #recessduty

Sue and Lisa, two seasoned educators, catch up in their podcast to discuss the often humorous side of life as we all age. This episode dives into their continued conversation about retirement, introducing well-intentioned games and phone calls with retired friends. The duo brainstorms quirky business ideas like an AI-driven 'teacher immersion room' to simulate the highs and lows of teaching. 

They touch on their duties as caretakers for aging parents, comparing the similarities between 8 and 80-year-olds through a game called 'Who Said That?' where they guess whether certain quotes come from students or their mothers. From "This tastes yucky" to "I can't figure out this iPad," the game highlights the charmingly similar complaints across generations, sparking belly laughs (Lisa) and nostalgic nods (Sue).

Then Sue and Lisa outline the signs of aging, considering everything from minor grievances like being called "ma'am," senior discounts, and reading glasses, to health-related milestones like colonoscopies,  and no more Pap smears. Ewww! 

Their banter is a reminder that humor is the best way to navigate the inevitable passage of time.  This episode is a mix of comedic reflection on aging, the bittersweet feelings of retirement, and the bonds formed through years of teaching.

#RetirementHumor

#TheyDontPayMeEnoughForThis, #IGiveUp, #HandsToYourself,
#WhyDoIBotherDressingUp, #WhatItsAllAbout, #LessonPlan, #BathroomBreak, #DanielsonModel, #TryingToBeNice, #StopTheWorldIWantToGetOff, #WeDidntKnow, #WeDidntKnowWhatWeDidntKnow, #StressedTeacher, #funny,
#NiceTry #StillFail #elementaryHumor, #DoAsISayNotAsIDo , #AForEffort, #IsItSummerYet, #ImHip #CoolTeacher, #WhyIsThisSticky, #ClassPets

Please contact us with comments or questions at [email protected].

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueandLisa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedidntknowpodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgpsWcy93XJpleqVCML4IBQ

Thanks for listening! -Sue and Lisa

#teacherlife #teachersofinstagram #teacher #iteach #teachers #iteachtoo #funnyteacherstories #education #teaching #school #teach #teacherstyle #classroom #teacherretirement #teachertribe #learning #teacherproblems #students #elementaryteacher #primaryteacher #cryingteachers #elementary #thirdgrade #fourthgrade #fifthgrade #cryinginmycar #teacherfunny #ageism #proudtoteach #teachermamas #recessduty

In episode 46, Sue and Lisa are cozied up in Sue's new Scamp Camper, aka their new mobile podcast studio, shielded from the rain by the camper's rat-fur walls. Yes, rat fur, but don’t let that deter you; it’s just part of the charm!

These two retirees are planning to conquer the world, dreaming of a comedy show tour from the tiny camper, or they could sell sandwiches from the window if that doesn't pan out.  You will feel the excitement as they imagine millions of followers from the Scamp community, who are hopefully as enthusiastic about tiny campers as they are about Dollar Tree decorations.

The conversation veers into the realities of retirement, revealing Lisa’s glamorous upcoming trip to Portugal, compared with Sue’s more humble (cheap) plans to camp at Goose Island near La Crosse, WI. They share laughs over the trials of camper life, like ensuring Sue's hubby, Jim, secures the camper well (because you know what they say: "If this camper’s rockin’, don’t come a-knockin’").

They touch on the challenges of adjusting to retired life, especially when everyone assumes they have endless free time. 

They call up their retired friends to see what they are doing in the moment.  First, there is Jan, and no one is sure if she is really modeling bikinis at age 75, complete with her knee surgery scars. Then they call Bonnie who loves her horses even though their poop caused her a small injury.  Finally, Lisa's friend Barb has something to say about day drinking.  Their conversation goes off the rails as the topic of droopy boobs and pasties somehow become their focus.

Finally, listeners are treated to a speed round of retirement ideas, ranging from the weird—like foraging for crickets to make brownies—to the practical, such as working at the YMCA for a meager wage but a free membership.

So, whether you’re a retired teacher or just dreaming of the day, join Sue and Lisa as they navigate the ups and downs of retirement with humor, heart, and a whole lot of Scamp Camper fun.

# ScampCamper
#camperlife #camper #camping #travel #vanlife

#TheyDontPayMeEnoughForThis, #IGiveUp, #HandsToYourself,
#WhyDoIBotherDressingUp, #WhatItsAllAbout, #LessonPlan, #BathroomBreak, #DanielsonModel, #TryingToBeNice, #StopTheWorldIWantToGetOff, #WeDidntKnow, #WeDidntKnowWhatWeDidntKnow, #StressedTeacher, #funny,
#NiceTry #StillFail #elementaryHumor, #DoAsISayNotAsIDo , #AForEffort, #IsItSummerYet, #ImHip #CoolTeacher, #WhyIsThisSticky, #ClassPets

Please contact us with comments or questions at [email protected].

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueandLisa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedidntknowpodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgpsWcy93XJpleqVCML4IBQ

Thanks for listening! -Sue and Lisa

#teacherlife #teachersofinstagram #teacher #iteach #teachers #iteachtoo #funnyteacherstories #education #teaching #school #teach #teacherstyle #classroom #teacherretirement #teachertribe #learning #teacherproblems #students #elementaryteacher #primaryteacher #cryingteachers #elementary #thirdgrade #fourthgrade #fifthgrade #cryinginmycar #teacherfunny #ageism #proudtoteach #teachermamas #recessduty

In the thrilling conclusion of our "Teach It Reality TV Gameshow," the hosts unveil the winner. The two contestants face the dreaded speed round, deciding if the scenarios are true or not true. Michael emerges triumphant, lauded for his quick thinking and wit in navigating these bizarre but often TRUE classroom scenarios.  Michael and runner-up Kim,  delve into peculiar foot issues, forgetful substitute teachers, and cans of Spaghettios that need heating up.  This game show is sure to be the next big hit on Netflix right behind Squid Games!

Mental health is no joke, but Sue and Lisa hope to bring some laughter and stress relief to teachers everywhere-even the retired ones.  Share this episode with someone you love.

#TeacherMentalHealth #StudentMentalHealth #TeacherGameShow #SquidGamesNot

#TheyDontPayMeEnoughForThis, #IGiveUp, #HandsToYourself,
#WhyDoIBotherDressingUp, #WhatItsAllAbout, #LessonPlan, #BathroomBreak, #DanielsonModel, #TryingToBeNice, #StopTheWorldIWantToGetOff, #WeDidntKnow, #WeDidntKnowWhatWeDidntKnow, #StressedTeacher, #funny,
#NiceTry #StillFail #elementaryHumor, #DoAsISayNotAsIDo , #AForEffort, #IsItSummerYet, #ImHip #CoolTeacher, #WhyIsThisSticky, #ClassPets

Please contact us with comments or questions at [email protected].

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueandLisa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedidntknowpodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgpsWcy93XJpleqVCML4IBQ

Thanks for listening! -Sue and Lisa

#teacherlife #teachersofinstagram #teacher #iteach #teachers #iteachtoo #funnyteacherstories #education #teaching #school #teach #teacherstyle #classroom #teacherretirement #teachertribe #learning #teacherproblems #students #elementaryteacher #primaryteacher #cryingteachers #elementary #thirdgrade #fourthgrade #fifthgrade #cryinginmycar #teacherfunny #ageism #proudtoteach #teachermamas #recessduty

Welcome back to 'We Didn't Know What We Didn't Know'! In today's episode, Sue and Lisa dive headfirst into their hilarious teacher game show reboot, pitting non-teachers against the challenges educators face daily. From crayfish conundrums to accidental underwear rags, the laughs are non-stop!

First up, Donald, the bureaucratic non-educator from California, brought his wit and money-making schemes to the table. While he may have missed the mark on classroom professionalism, his snarky charm added a delightful twist.

Then there was Betsy, the tater tot enthusiast from Utah, who brought her own unique flair to the game. With her 'critter' catching skills and unconventional solutions, she had us in stitches and left us wondering if 'WWBD' (What Would Betsy Do?) might just become our new motto.

Next, Chrissy, the 21-year-old from Minnesota, brought a fresh perspective to the table, showcasing her thoughtful and considerate approach to each scenario. Despite not being familiar with the intricacies of teaching, Chrissy's genuine empathy and quick thinking made her a standout contestant.

Lastly, Kim, the thoughtful hairstylist from Wisconsin, surprised us all with her measured approach and heartfelt reasoning. Though she faced tough decisions, her commitment to doing right by her hypothetical students shone through, earning her high marks for empathy and creativity.

Sue and Lisa note a stark reality: while there are countless elimination game shows out there, none quite compare to the unique challenge of stepping into the shoes of a teacher. In a landscape where shows like "The Apprentice" once glamorized wealth and privilege, this gameshow highlights the often-overlooked value of empathy and genuine connection.

Tune in to find out who survived the teacher game show gauntlet and who'll be eliminated faster than you can say 'homemade moonshine'! With laughs, lessons, and a million fake bucks on the line, this episode of 'We Didn't Know What We Didn't Know' is one you won't want to miss!"

#TheyDontPayMeEnoughForThis, #IGiveUp, #HandsToYourself,
#WhyDoIBotherDressingUp, #WhatItsAllAbout, #LessonPlan, #BathroomBreak, #DanielsonModel, #TryingToBeNice, #StopTheWorldIWantToGetOff, #WeDidntKnow, #WeDidntKnowWhatWeDidntKnow, #StressedTeacher, #funny,
#NiceTry #StillFail #elementaryHumor, #DoAsISayNotAsIDo , #AForEffort, #IsItSummerYet, #ImHip #CoolTeacher, #WhyIsThisSticky, #ClassPets

Please contact us with comments or questions at [email protected].

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueandLisa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedidntknowpodcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgpsWcy93XJpleqVCML4IBQ

Thanks for listening! -Sue and Lisa

#teacherlife #teachersofinstagram #teacher #iteach #teachers #iteachtoo #funnyteacherstories #education #teaching #school #teach #teacherstyle #classroom #teacherretirement #teachertribe #learning #teacherproblems #students #elementaryteacher #primaryteacher #cryingteachers #elementary #thirdgrade #fourthgrade #fifthgrade #cryinginmycar #teacherfunny #ageism #proudtoteach #teachermamas #recessduty