PODCAST · kids
Back to the Bell
by Hayley & Shannon
Back to the Bell is where teaching and mom life collide. Hosted by two former school administrators turned classroom champions, Hayley and Shannon take you behind the scenes of education—from anchor charts to carline chaos. With raw honesty, relatable stories, and just the right amount of laughter, this podcast is for educators, parents, and anyone trying to balance it all with heart. 🔔 Real talk. Real classrooms. Real life—because the bell always rings again.
Episodes
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Teaching in the Age of AI (Rerun)
In this episode, Hayley and Shannon dive into the hot topic of AI in education—from ChatGPT to SchoolAI and everything in between. They explore how students are using AI (ethically and… not-so-ethically), how teachers can use it to save time without losing heart, and how to strike the right…
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What is Saving Our Lives This Back to School Season EP 33
Back-to-school season is officially here, and we’re sharing what’s saving our lives right now! From quick breakfasts and extra help at home to teacher must-haves and the planner keeping it all together, we’re talking about the simple things making the mom, teacher, and everyday-life juggle a…
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New Year, Same Bell EP 32
We’re back behind the microphones—and heading back to the bell! 🍎🎙️ In Episode 32, New Year, Same Bell, Hayley and Shannon catch up on summer, what slowing down taught them, and what they want to carry into a brand-new school year. From letting go of perfection and protecting what matters to...
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Speaking Up! Advocating for Students EP 31
Have you ever felt like something wasn’t quite right for your child at school—but weren’t sure how to speak up? In this episode of Back to the Bell, we’re diving into what it really means to advocate for your child in today’s school system. From knowing when to reach out, to what to say (and what...
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What Parents Wish Teaches Knew EP 30
What do parents really wish teachers understood? In this episode, we take a step into the parent perspective—talking about emotions, busy home life, communication gaps, and the deep love behind every reaction. As moms and educators, we share real talk on how empathy and partnership can make all…
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What Teachers Wish Parents Knew EP 29
In this episode of Back to the Bell, Hayley and Shannon share what teachers really wish parents knew about the classroom. From communication and independence to grades and social growth, they offer honest insight and encouragement to help build stronger parent-teacher partnerships—all with the...
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Is This for a Grade? EP 28
Grading policies can spark some of the biggest debates in education—and in this episode, Hayley and Shannon dive right into the hot buttons. From zeros and 50% minimum policies to late work, retakes, participation grades, and homework, they unpack the questions teachers wrestle with every day....
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Q&A: Hot Topics in Education EP 27
In this episode of Back to the Bell, we dive into some of today’s most talked-about topics in education. From the pros and challenges of flexible seating to the value of field trips and the ongoing debate around grading systems, we share our real experiences and perspectives as educators and…
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The Class that Changed Everything EP 26
Every teacher has that class—the one that tests your patience, your confidence, and everything you thought you knew about teaching. In this episode of Back to the Bell, Hayley and Shannon get real about the challenging classes and grade levels that humbled them the most—and ultimately shaped them...
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Sub Plans - What Happens When the Teacher is Out EP 25
Sub plans. The mythical unicorn of teaching. In this episode of Back to the Bell, Hayley and Shannon keep it real about what actually happens on sub days—and why that’s okay. From the pressure to overplan to the reality of unfinished work and “free time all day,” we’re talking honest truths, zero...
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Self-Care: Beyond Bubble Baths EP 24
Self-care doesn’t have to be fancy to be effective. In this episode, Hayley and Shannon share practical, doable self-care ideas for teachers and moms — from small daily habits to after-school resets — because taking care of yourself shouldn’t feel like another job.
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Back to Reality, But Still in Sweatpants EP 23
Winter break is over — and we’re not quite ready. In this casual catch-up episode, Hayley and Shannon reflect on the chaos of winter break, kids’ gifts that were hits (and misses), funny moments we’ll actually remember, and the mental prep it takes to head back to school. We talk honestly about…
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New Year - Same Chaos: Goal Setting EP 22 Part 2
In this episode of Back to the Bell, Hayley and Shannon continue the goal-setting conversation by shifting the focus from the classroom to home. As former administrators and current teacher-moms, they dive into realistic goal setting for parents — especially those juggling student needs alongside...
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New Year - Same Chaos: Goal Setting EP 21
In Part 1 of our goal-setting series, Hayley and Shannon dive into realistic, life-giving goals for teachers and school leaders. From choosing one meaningful instructional focus, creating systems that give you your time back, and protecting your personal well-being, this episode is all about...
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Santa, Send Help!: Teacher-Mom Gift Giving EP 20
In this episode of Back to the Bell, Hayley and Shannon break down the stress and sweetness of holiday gift-giving — at school and at home. They share simple, budget-friendly ideas for student gifts, thoughtful coworker presents, and meaningful classroom projects kids can make for their families....
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Questions We’d Ask Our Mentors EP 19 Part 2
Part 2: This week, we’re reflecting on mentorship — the guidance we received, the questions we wish we had asked, and how those lessons show up in our lives today. We cover career shifts, mom guilt, boundaries, leadership, and finding peace in your purpose. Perfect for teachers and moms who are...
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Questions We’d Ask Our Mentors EP 18 Part 1
Part 1: This week, we’re reflecting on mentorship — the guidance we received, the questions we wish we had asked, and how those lessons show up in our lives today. We cover career shifts, mom guilt, boundaries, leadership, and finding peace in your purpose. Perfect for teachers and moms who are...
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Field Trips: Herding Cats and Building Memories EP 17
Join Hayley and Shannon as they dive into the wild world of field trips — the chaotic, hilarious, and heartwarming adventures every teacher and mom knows too well. From bus ride mishaps to snack-time disasters and those unforgettable moments of connection, this episode celebrates the magic (and...
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The Great Homework Debate EP 16
Are we doing homework right? In this episode of Back to the Bell, Hayley and Shannon dive into one of education’s most debated topics — homework. From weekly packets to no-homework policies, they explore what’s really happening in classrooms today and how teachers, parents, and students feel…
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Teaching in a Winter Whirlwind EP 15
From Halloween chaos to winter concerts and costume-filled spirit weeks — this time of year in the classroom can feel like a festive tornado. In this episode, Hayley and Shannon share real talk and relatable stories about teaching (and parenting!) through the holiday season. You’ll laugh, nod in...
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Building Bridges Through Conferences EP 14
Parent-teacher conferences can feel like a marathon—emotionally, mentally, and physically. In this episode, Hayley and Shannon share real talk and practical tips to help you navigate conference week with confidence, empathy, and purpose. From preparation strategies and student-led insights to...
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An Interview with Jack Hartmann EP 13
In this episode of Back to the Bell, we’re joined by children’s music legend Jack Hartmann to explore how music and movement support memory, language, SEL, and engagement in early childhood education. Packed with inspiration and tips for teachers and parents alike!
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Teaching in the Age of AI EP 12
In this episode, Hayley and Shannon dive into the hot topic of AI in education—from ChatGPT to SchoolAI and everything in between. They explore how students are using AI (ethically and… not-so-ethically), how teachers can use it to save time without losing heart, and how to strike the right…
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Sunday Scaries EP 11
In this episode, Hayley and Shannon tackle the all-too-relatable "Sunday Scaries"—that creeping dread as the weekend ends and a new school week begins. They dive into why teachers and parents feel them so deeply, share real-life confessions (hello, productive procrastination and grading on girls’...
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Before the Bell - What We Wish We Knew Then EP 10
In this episode, Hayley and Shannon share the real talk they wish they heard before stepping into the classroom and the front office. From classroom management and parent dynamics to burnout, boundaries, and embracing imperfection—this is the advice every new teacher and admin needs to hear.
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The Mid September Slump EP 9
Feeling the burnout already? You’re not alone. In this episode, Hayley and Shannon dive into the Mid-September Slump — why it hits so hard and how to reset your energy in the classroom, at home, and in your mindset. From practical teacher tips to real mom-life hacks, this episode is your reminder...
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Your Questions Answered EP 8
In this Q&A episode, Hayley and Shannon answer your questions about teaching, parenting, and finding balance. From classroom traditions and the shift from admin to teacher, to morning routines, coffee orders, and funniest student excuses, nothing is off-limits. Join us for real talk, laughs, and…
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Running on Empty EP 7
In Episode 7 of Back to the Bell, Hayley and Shannon unpack the reality of “Teacher Tired”—the unique exhaustion that comes from juggling classrooms, kids, and life. From cold coffee and copier jams to surviving on granola bars, they share why this tired hits so hard and the simple strategies…
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Other Duties as Assigned EP 6
Think teaching is just lesson plans and grading? Think again. In this episode, Hayley and Shannon pull back the curtain on all the extra hats educators wear—from car line chaos to impromptu event planning, and even piggybacking kids through a flooded parking lot. We share our funniest (and most...
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The Parent-Teacher Trap EP 5
Being both an educator and a parent comes with a unique set of challenges—and sometimes, conflicting hats. In this episode, Hayley and Shannon share honest stories, practical tips, and lessons learned about advocating for your child while navigating professional relationships with coworkers. From...
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The Juggle is Real EP 4
This week, Hayley and Shannon dive into the real-life chaos of juggling teaching, parenting, and partnership. From forgotten permission slips to late-night grading piles, we’re unpacking the mental load—and what actually helps. Takeaways include practical strategies, honest moments, and a…
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Back to the Bell Begins EP 1
Welcome to the very first episode of Back to the Bell! In this candid kickoff, meet your hosts—Hayley and Shannon—two former school administrators who first crossed paths in 2018. We share how our friendship was built in the whirlwind of leadership and what led us, seven years later, to trade our...
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Surviving the Back-to-School Whirlwind EP 3
It’s back-to-school season and chaos is in full swing! In this episode, Hayley and Shannon share real talk from all angles—leadership, classroom, and motherhood. From panicked parent emails and staff prep to planner hacks and spirit night survival, we’re covering the madness with humor, heart…
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From Admin to Anchor Charts EP 2
In this episode, Hayley and Shannon open up about their transition from school administrators back to the classroom. They share the personal and professional reasons behind the shift, the challenges of letting go of leadership roles, and the unexpected joy of reconnecting with students. If you’ve...
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Welcome to Back to the Bell EP 0
Meet your hosts, Hayley and Shannon—two former administrators who traded their walkie-talkies for whiteboards and never looked back. In this brief intro episode, we share what Back to the Bell is all about: real talk, relatable stories, and weekly encouragement for educators, moms, and…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Back to the Bell is where teaching and mom life collide. Hosted by two former school administrators turned classroom champions, Hayley and Shannon take you behind the scenes of education—from anchor charts to carline chaos. With raw honesty, relatable stories, and just the right amount of laughter, this podcast is for educators, parents, and anyone trying to balance it all with heart.
🔔 Real talk. Real classrooms. Real life—because the bell always rings again.
HOSTED BY
Hayley & Shannon
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Back to the Bell have?
Back to the Bell currently has 35 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Back to the Bell about?
Back to the Bell is where teaching and mom life collide. Hosted by two former school administrators turned classroom champions, Hayley and Shannon take you behind the scenes of education—from anchor charts to carline chaos. With raw honesty, relatable stories, and just the right amount of laughter,...
How often does Back to the Bell release new episodes?
Back to the Bell has 35 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Back to the Bell?
You can listen to Back to the Bell on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Back to the Bell?
Back to the Bell is created and hosted by Hayley & Shannon.
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