218: Measuring in Love with Manny Curiel

What if the most important thing happening in your classroom… isn’t measurable?In this episode, Meghan sits down with Manny Curiel, a former classroom teacher and instructional coach who now works with educators around the world through Edpuzzle’s community team.Manny’s philosophy centers on one powerful idea:👉 “Measure in love.”Because while schools often focus on data, scores, and outcomes, Manny reminds us that the real impact of teaching shows up in something else entirely—relationships, confidence, and how students feel about themselves as learners.From his own experience learning English alongside his students to building classrooms rooted in connection, this conversation is full of real strategies, honest stories, and a much-needed reminder that emotion drives learning.What it means to truly “measure in love” in educationManny’s journey from learning English → teaching → global edtech workWhy small groups and connection outperform whole-group instructionHow student behavior is often tied to emotional readinessThe importance of student voice and validationWhy engagement is more than quiet complianceThe role of fun, celebration, and classroom cultureWhere edtech is helping—and where it’s overwhelming teachersWhy tools should serve the lesson, not replace itHow giving students choice and ownership increases engagement“When you take care of the heart, the brain does the rest.” Manny breaks down real classroom scenarios:High test scores with low connection → DataA chaotic but engaged classroom → LoveA teacher who knows every student’s story → LoveA perfect lesson with no interaction → Data👉 The takeaway: we may be measuring the wrong things.“Emotion drives learning.” “Students need to feel seen, heard, and valued.” “You don’t have control—you have connection.” Record lessons so students can access learning anytimeUse data to guide small groups—not drive whole instructionGive students choice in how they show learningBuild in time for emotional resets (even 5 minutes matters)Focus on student feelings first, then contentInstagram: @mannydiscotechConferences & Edpuzzle community eventsNo Name Paper: A Teacher PodcastWhere teaching is more than one size fits all.✨ In This Episode, We Discuss:💡 Key Takeaway🎲 Featured Segment: Data or Love?🔥 Mic Drop Moments⚡ Real Classroom Moves🔗 Connect with Manny Curiel🎙️ About the Podcast