Empower Students Now

Why do so many misconceptions about autism still persist in our schools — even as we know more about autism than ever before? The answer is buried in history. In Part 1 of a multi-part series on the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda Werner breaks down the riveting and heartbreaking history of how autism was first identified, researched, and defined — and how decisions made almost a century ago still shape how teachers see autistic students today.Drawing from Steve Silberman's landmark book NeuroTribes, Amanda traces the story of two researchers who defined autism in profoundly different ways — and explains why the broader, more humane vision was suppressed for over 50 years while the narrow, deficit-focused model became the foundation of everything we were taught.Content warning: This episode discusses eugenics, the Nazi regime's targeting of disabled children, and other emotionally difficult topics. Please listen when you feel ready.In this episode, you'll learn:The story of the Rosa family in Silicon Valley — and how their journey with their autistic son Leo reflects what so many families still experience navigating the school and mental health systems todaySteve Silberman's investigation into the "geek syndrome" in Silicon Valley: the pattern of brilliant, driven tech workers having children diagnosed with autismHans Asperger's clinic in 1930s Vienna: a remarkably progressive, strengths-based approach to autistic children that was decades ahead of its timeSister Victorine Zak: the forgotten nun who developed individualized, strengths-based educational methods for autistic children nearly a century agoHow Asperger saw autism as a broad spectrum — including both non-verbal children with high support needs and highly verbal, gifted children — and why that view was lostGeorge Frankl and Annie Weiss: the Jewish clinicians who escaped the Nazis with the help of Leo Kanner at Johns Hopkins — and brought Asperger's knowledge with themLeo Kanner's 1943 paper that defined autism as rare, severe, and devastating — a narrow framework that dominated for decades and led to generations of undiagnosed and misdiagnosed childrenThe "refrigerator mother" theory: how parent-blaming became embedded in autism research and the lasting damage it causedHow Kanner suppressed Asperger's broader framework — and why the deficit model won out over the strengths-based model in American children's psychiatryWhy this history still matters in your classroom today: when we see students as "too verbal" or "too social" to be autistic, that's Kanner's legacy at workBook discussed:NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity by Steve SilbermanStay tuned for Part 2, where Amanda will cover the history of ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) and the harmful interventions that grew out of this narrow framework.If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a teacher, parent, or anyone who wants to understand how we got here — so we can do better.

What if the next time a student lies, sneaks, or breaks a rule, instead of reaching for a consequence, you reached for a conversation? In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda Werner shares a powerful reframe for how teachers and parents can approach misbehavior — one that prioritizes connection over compliance and treats behavior problems as signals, not crimes.Inspired by a real group text conversation with fellow moms about a child sneaking screen time and lying about it, Amanda walks through exactly what she said — and why her approach looks so different from the way most of us were raised. As a self-described rebel kid who was grounded constantly growing up and a teacher who spent 16 years working with "difficult" students, Amanda offers a perspective rooted in both personal experience and years of classroom practice.In this episode, you'll learn:Amanda's reframe: why misbehavior is a signal to have a real conversation, not a trigger for a consequenceWhy "consequences" is often just a rebranding of "punishments" — and why both can cause disconnectionHow to talk to a child who has broken your trust: sharing the real-world impact of dishonesty without shamingWhy asking for the child's perspective — "Why did you feel you needed to lie?" — changes everythingThe power of letting kids help determine their own consequences collaborativelyWhy the word "consequence" itself can be a shutdown trigger for some kidsHow to set boundaries and enforce rules while still leading with empathy and connectionAmanda's personal story of being a kid who stole, snuck out, and was punished constantly — and what she wishes adults had done differentlyInsights from the book "Good Inside" by Dr. Becky Kennedy: the premise that kids are good inside no matter what they doHow this reframe applies in classrooms: cheating, phone sneaking, defiance, and rule-breakingThis approach isn't about being permissive or letting kids walk all over you. It's about shifting from "how do I punish this?" to "what problem are we solving together?" — and building the kind of trust that actually changes behavior long-term.If you found this episode helpful, share it with a teacher, parent, or anyone navigating tough moments with kids.Visit amandawritenow.com for free tools and resources! 

What happens when a meditation teacher stops meditating — and decides that's okay? In this deeply personal episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda Warner gets honest about the chaos of her life right now: selling a house, moving her family to Uruguay with a one-way ticket, packing up her entire life — and barely keeping up with her own self-care practices along the way.Rather than pretending she has it all figured out, Amanda shares the one mindset practice that's actually getting her through: self-acceptance. Not the polished, Instagram version. The real kind — where you accept the stress, the guilt, the skipped meditations, the unhealthy eating, the sleepless nights, and the tears that come up mid-sentence while recording a podcast episode in your car because your empty house echoes too much.If you're a teacher navigating end-of-year overwhelm, political anxiety, or just the weight of everything changing at once, this episode is a reminder that you can always take one breath — even when you can't do anything else.In this episode, you'll learn:What self-acceptance actually looks like in practice — especially when you're not practicing what you preachWhy a meditation teacher skipping meditation isn't failure — it's part of the practiceAmanda's life update: selling the house, one-way tickets to Uruguay, moving a dog and a cat internationally, and trying to say "Uruguay" in Spanish on airA simple self-acceptance practice you can do right now: place your hands on your heart, breathe, and say "I am aware"Why beating yourself up is an ingrained habit for women and teachers — and how to notice when you're doing itThe difference between self-care as a checklist and self-acceptance as a way of beingWhy crying is healthy, rest is productive, and you don't have to hold it all together to be okayA guided breathing moment to close the episode — because no matter how chaotic your life is, you can always take one breathThis episode is for every teacher who's white-knuckling it to summer break. You're going to be okay.If you found this episode helpful, please share it with someone who needs to hear it right now.

What if the most "difficult" kid in your classroom is actually the one you should be paying the closest attention to — not to discipline, but to champion? In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda Werner breaks down a powerful Atlantic article by Russell Shaw called "In Praise of Difficult Kids" and explains why the students who challenge you, interrupt you, and push back against your lessons may be developing the exact skills our society needs most right now.Amanda connects Shaw's insights to her own experience as a former class clown turned compliant masker, sharing how school systems trained her to suppress her natural instincts for questioning and humor — and the damage that caused. She also offers practical strategies teachers can use to channel students' defiance into critical thinking, respectful dissent, and civic courage.In this episode, you'll learn:The story of "Ned," the disruptive student who later became a teacher and credited his experience in Shaw's class as formativeWhy compliance culture in schools can silence the very students who are developing critical thinking and a strong sense of justiceHow punishing defiant behavior in front of compliant students makes everyone less likely to speak up — even about real injusticesAmanda's personal experience as a class clown in elementary school who was shaped into a "good girl" mask by middle school — and what that cost herPractical strategies for creating structured opportunities for dissent: classroom debates, devil's advocate roles, "challenge the teacher" days, and student-led discussionsHow to reframe "bad behavior" into strengths using specific language — like telling the class clown "you have a strong presence" or the passionate arguer "your sense of justice will serve you well"Why this moment in history makes teaching kids to dissent respectfully more important than everThe difference between compliance time and dissent time, and how naming both gives students clarityArticle discussed:"In Praise of Difficult Kids" by Russell Shaw, The Atlantic (linked in show notes — if you don't have a subscription, ask a subscriber to gift it to you)If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a teacher, parent, or anyone who cares about raising kids who can think critically and speak up when it matters.

What do teachers really know about autism — and how much of it is actually wrong? In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda Werner — a 16-year classroom veteran and AuDHD educator — breaks down five of the most damaging and persistent myths about autism that still circulate in schools and explains why they cause real harm to autistic students.Drawing on research, years of teaching experience, and her own journey as a late-diagnosed autistic person, Amanda shares how these myths shaped her own school experience as both a student and a teacher — and what educators can do differently starting now.The 5 myths covered in this episode:Myth 1: Autistic people don't feel emotions or lack empathy. Amanda explains why autistic people often feel emotions more intensely, not less, and how flat affect and differences in eye contact are misread as coldness or disinterest.Myth 2: All autistic people are the same, and you can spot autism easily. The truth about masking, why girls and women are underdiagnosed, and why the DSM-5 criteria were built on studies of white boys.Myth 3: Autistic people lack intelligence. Why autism and IQ are completely separate, what twice-exceptional means, and how standardized tests can fail autistic students — including Amanda's own experience with the SAT.Myth 4: Autistic people need to be fixed or made "normal." A candid look at ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis), why stimming is self-regulation and not misbehavior, and why forcing conformity does more harm than good.Myth 5: Autistic people don't want friends or prefer to be alone. The difference between not wanting connection and struggling with how to connect, the loneliness epidemic among autistic people, and how teachers can support social connection through structured opportunities and parallel play.Key takeaways for teachers: presume competence, don't force eye contact, allow stimming that isn't harmful, check in on quiet or withdrawn students, teach all students about different communication styles, and shift from fixing to supporting.If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a fellow educator. Resources for teaching students about autism and neurodiversity are linked in the show notes.

What is neurodiversity — and why should teachers care? In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda Warner — a certified meditation teacher, 16-year classroom veteran, and AuDHD educator — breaks down the neurodiversity movement in plain language for teachers.You'll learn what neurodiversity actually means (and what it doesn't), where the movement came from, its core principles, and what it asks of educators. Amanda also tackles common misconceptions, like the idea that neurodiversity denies disability or excuses behavior, and shares how understanding her own autism and ADHD diagnosis transformed the way she sees teaching, students, and herself.This episode covers: what neurodiversity means vs. neurodivergent vs. neurotypical, the history of the neurodiversity movement and Judy Singer, the medical model vs. the social model of disability, presuming competence in neurodivergent students, "nothing about us without us" in education, why support doesn't equal cure, shifting from compliance to accommodation in the classroom, and how ableist expectations in schools can disable students.Whether you're a general education teacher, a special education teacher, or a parent navigating IEPs, this episode will help you understand the neurodiversity movement and apply it in your classroom.Resources for teaching neurodiversity to your students are linked below.00:00 Welcome and Overview02:17 Host Perspective02:57 Defining Neurodiversity03:27 Neurodivergent vs Neurotypical05:08 Not a Diagnosis05:24 Origins and Paradigm Shift07:43 Core Principles08:36 Disability and Environment11:49 Presume Competence13:18 Nothing About Us14:31 Support Not Cure15:07 Teacher Mindset Shift16:26 Common Misconceptions17:58 Personal Neurochemistry Story21:29 Wrap Up and ResourcesEditable Slides to Teach about Autism + Bonus Slideshows!8 Outstanding Videos to Spark Discussion About Neurodiversity in Your ClassroomAmanda's Favorite Neurodiversity Affirming Podcasts: The Neurodiversity Podcast Full-Tilt ParentingDivergent Conversations Uniquely Human Meet My Autistic BrainHyperfocus My Friend AutismAdhd Experts

On the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda Werner shares that she pursued an autism diagnosis at 43 after years of researching autism following her child’s 2021 diagnosis. During this time she was also diagnosed with ADHD, identifying as AuDHD. She describes feeling overwhelmed trying to organize her ideas into traditional formats and turns to poetry as a way to express the “messy” chaos of her mind. Amanda discusses stigma and misconceptions about ADHD and autism, including a “bandwagon effect” narrative, and argues that more diagnoses reflect increased information while autism may still be overlooked, especially when ADHD is diagnosed. She emphasizes the importance of teachers understanding neurodivergence and encourages exploring this co-occurance further. She then reads a poem listing AuDHD paradoxes and concludes that learning about neurodiversity has improved her self-acceptance.00:00 Late Autism Diagnosis01:04 Overwhelm and Chaos02:37 Why Poetry Helps03:50 Teachers and Undiagnosed Kids04:59 Stigma and Bandwagon Talk06:06 ADHD Parent Dismissal Story08:24 Why She Wrote This10:09 Poem Paradoxical AuDHD Poem13:22 Closing Reflections

Host Amanda Werner discusses how schools often misinterpret student “defiance” as willful disobedience when it may reflect nervous system distress, trauma responses, autism, or ADHD. She shares her experience as a former teacher and as an autistic parent of an autistic/ADHD child, describing how her child’s early “defiance” led to an autism diagnosis and how she previously blamed students and parents. Amanda reviews behaviors commonly labeled defiant (not following directions, talking back, unfinished work, leaving class, sneaking items) and explains how multi-step instructions can overwhelm working memory and sensory processing. She recounts supporting a student with severe outbursts by providing an isolated space and flexibility. She urges a mindset shift from “they won’t” to “they can’t right now,” using curiosity, questions, reduced demands, alternatives, and breaks to prevent escalation.00:00 Welcome and Topic01:04 Autism and Defiance02:26 Teacher Misreads03:38 Not Defiant Drowning05:05 What Defiance Looks06:10 Shoes and Support09:08 Compliance and Meltdowns09:52 Overload and Steps11:38 Talking Back Reframed14:07 Mindset Shift Cant15:27 Curiosity Over Consequences17:39 Wrap Up and Thanks

Host Amanda Werner shares why she is discussing her family’s diagnostic journey, describing years of feeling overwhelmed and not understanding why daily life felt so hard for her and her child. She explains pursuing evaluations through medical providers and insurance, how her child was diagnosed with ADHD and later autism, and how that helped their family understand needs, strengths, and challenges at school and home. Amanda then describes recognizing similar traits in herself, getting an ADHD diagnosis and finding stimulant medication helpful, and later completing an adult autism assessment that also identified OCD and alexithymia. She reflects on masking, skepticism and imposter syndrome, overlap among diagnoses, and her goal of helping teachers, parents, and students by sharing what she has learned.00:00 Why Share This Story03:54 Life Before Diagnosis06:27 Journal Entry Meltdown10:18 Starting Child Assessments11:38 Kaiser Screening And Switch16:21 Full Autism Evaluation Results20:29 Lockdown Distance Learning Clues24:17 Amanda Suspects ADHD26:52 Medication Struggles And Stimulants30:50 Adult Autism Assessment36:59 Imposter Syndrome And Overlap42:14 Closing Thoughts And Purpose

Amanda Werner hosts an off-the-cuff episode of the Empower Students Now podcast about what led her to suspect she was autistic and eventually seek a formal adult autism diagnosis. She explains that her suspicion began after her child was diagnosed with autism in 2021 (and ADHD), which led her to research autism’s genetic links and to reflect on stigma, labels, and the value of openly discussing autistic experiences to combat myths. A second reason was that her ADHD diagnosis didn’t fully explain her traits, especially her extreme need for order and discomfort with clutter and imperfection. She also discusses learning about the DSM-5’s shift away from Asperger’s as a separate label, how autism can be missed in people without intellectual disability, and how family learning differences (including her sister’s school-identified learning disability and self-identified dyslexia) contributed to her understanding. Amanda connects autism to her childhood experiences of rebellion, conflict at home, running away, social struggles, intense one-at-a-time friendships, frequent moving due to a Navy family, and severe bullying that caused her to leave a school in eighth grade. She describes insights from books including Uniquely Human by Barry Prizant, Unmasking Autism by Devin Price, and Girls and Women on the Autism Spectrum by Sarah Hendrickx, focusing on how autism in girls and women can present differently, including socially accepted special interests (people/animals), masking to fit in, sensory sensitivities (light, clothing, skin discomfort), modesty and discomfort with feminine clothing, tomboy/androgynous feelings, and gender uncertainty. She closes with classroom relevance: teachers may notice similar traits in students but should not diagnose; instead, they can use supportive practices that benefit all students, such as patience and empathy, active anti-bullying vigilance, connecting students to school resources (counselors, clubs), allowing headphones, offering choices and alternative options, shortening or excusing some assignments, and providing flexible seating and movement options.00:00 Welcome + Why This Episode Is “Messy” (Adult Autism/ADHD Journey)00:57 What Made Me Suspect Autism: Starting Point + Why Teachers Should Care02:38 Reason #1: My Child’s Autism Diagnosis & Learning It’s Genetic05:51 Reason #2: ADHD Didn’t Fully Explain Me 10:02 Reason #3: DSM-5, Asperger’s History, and Late-Diagnosed Adults14:26 Reason #4: Childhood Red Flags—Rebellion, Social Struggles, and Puberty17:40 Reason #5: Girls/Women on the Spectrum—Masking, “Special Interests,” and Fitting In20:49 Sensory Sensitivities + Gender/Androgyny & Bullying Experiences26:20 Back to the Classroom: You Can’t Diagnose, But You Can Support28:53 Practical Accommodations Teachers Can Use (Even Without a Diagnosis)30:58 Wrap-Up, Resources, and Goodbye

Access Editable Essential Skills Slideshows HereAmanda continues her Empower Students Now series with short classroom slideshow lessons available via email sign-up here by focusing on emotional regulation. She defines it as noticing emotions and body sensations, understanding triggers, using strategies to reduce intensity, and choosing responses rather than reacting—emphasizing it is not suppressing feelings or forced positivity. She explains why it matters for today’s overwhelmed students and developing brains, notes alexithymia (difficulty identifying emotions) and how ADHD/autism can make regulation harder, and urges teachers to view meltdowns as nervous-system overwhelm, not tantrums or kids choosing to be difficult. She shares practical tools (STOP, feeling wheel, 5-4-3-2-1 grounding, energy check-ins, thought records) and guidance for teaching proactively through emotionally safe classrooms, modeling, individualized supports, and de-escalation. She also covers co-regulation, introduces emotional labor, and cautions that “regulation” shouldn’t mean students—especially girls and students of color—must stay pleasant or manage others’ comfort.00:00 Welcome + Grab the Free Classroom Slides for This Skills Series02:28 What Emotional Regulation Really Means (and What It’s Not)07:21 Why Kids Struggle: Overwhelm, Brain Development, and Today’s World08:49 Step 1–4: Awareness, Triggers, Coping Strategies, and Self-Compassion14:50 Neurodivergent Learners: ADHD/Autism, Meltdowns, and Misread Behavior19:34 Practical Tools to Teach: STOP, Feeling Wheel, Grounding, Thought Records22:46 Make It Work in Class: Emotion-Safe Culture, Modeling, and De-escalation28:33 Co-Regulation: How Calm Adults Help Dysregulated Students31:31 Emotional Labor: The Hidden Cost of “Always Being Pleasant”34:38 Reflection Questions + Final Takeaways and How to Support the Show

Access Essential Skills Slides HereIn this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda dives into the critical skill of conflict resolution. Amanda shares personal experiences and highlights the lack of formal education on resolving conflicts. Offering a range of practical steps and strategies, she categorizes conflicts into task, values, and relationship types and provides a seven-step guide for healthy conflict resolution. Additionally, she discusses power dynamics and the importance of setting boundaries when conflicts can't be resolved. Accompanied by a free student-facing slideshow, this episode is a valuable resource for teachers looking to equip students with essential life skills.00:00 Introduction to Conflict Resolution05:33 Types of Conflicts10:00 Common Reactions to Conflict12:02 Steps for Healthy Conflict Resolution24:32 Power Dynamics in Conflict29:08 Setting Boundaries and Conclusion

Content Warning: This episode discusses emotionally charged topics that may be difficult for some listeners. Please take care of yourself and listen when and if you feel ready.In this raw and honest episode, I'm sharing something I wrote back in September 2025—a four-page document I never published, explaining why I left teaching. Again.I've left the profession three times. Gone back, left, gone back, left. And this time, I'm not going back.This episode is different from my usual content. There's no structured lesson plan, no tips or strategies. Instead, I'm speaking directly to teachers who are struggling right now—especially neurodivergent teachers, BIPOC teachers, and LGBTQI+ teachers navigating an increasingly hostile political climate.I read the letter I wrote to myself and to you, talking about:What the last few years of teaching have felt likeWhy masking my frustrations became impossibleThe disconnect between what teachers need and what the system demandsHow the current political environment is making teaching unsustainableWhy prioritizing your own wellbeing might be the only reasonable answer right nowI was a good teacher. I loved my students. And I still had to leave.If you're teaching right now and feeling trapped, exhausted, or questioning everything—this episode is for you. You're not alone.Take care of yourself.Subscribe to Empower Students Now for conversations about equity, neurodiversity, mindfulness, and student engagement.

In this urgent and heartfelt episode, recorded on Sunday, January 25th, Amanda Werner offers raw and real advice for teachers dealing with a recent tragedy involving the death of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by federal agents. Acknowledging the emotional burden and chaos, Amanda provides practical guidance and reassurance to teachers on how to care for themselves and their students in the aftermath. She discusses the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and maintaining a safe and stable classroom environment. This episode aims to support teachers in making the best decisions for their students and themselves during such challenging times.00:00 Introduction and Urgency00:35 Processing the Tragedy03:11 Self-Care on Difficult Days05:07 Navigating the Classroom Post-Tragedy09:10 Balancing Personal and Professional Responses12:32 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Access Essential Skills Slides HereIn this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda Werner dives into the essential skill of collaborative problem solving. This episode is part of a broader series focusing on the critical skills needed for students' futures. Amanda provides practical strategies for teaching collaborative problem solving in the classroom and emphasizes the importance of teaching these skills explicitly. She discusses the differences between group work and true collaboration, shares classroom scenarios and personal experiences, and offers a step-by-step process to help students effectively work together. Listeners are encouraged to access student-facing slideshows via the Essential Skills Slideshows link in the show notes for ready-to-use classroom materials.00:00 Introduction to Collaborative Problem Solving02:08 Understanding Collaborative Problem Solving03:19 Common Classroom Scenarios04:08 Teaching Collaborative Skills Explicitly07:29 Key Points for Effective Collaboration11:19 Classroom Project Example16:04 Steps for Collaborative Problem Solving19:02 Addressing Group Work Challenges28:27 Final Thoughts and Reflection

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda Werner discusses the importance and challenges of teaching active listening to students. She provides an overview of essential skills like self-advocacy, ethical reasoning, and critical thinking, emphasizing that active listening might be the hardest but most critical of all. Amanda dives into the components of active listening, offering strategies for educators to model and teach these skills in the classroom. She also addresses common challenges, such as students' reluctance to listen or speak, and provides practical activities and solutions. This episode aims to equip teachers with tools to foster a culture of genuine listening, which is foundational for empathy, learning, relationships, and democracy.00:00 Introduction and Series Overview01:15 The Importance of Active Listening05:05 Teaching Active Listening to Students07:16 Components of Active Listening27:08 Challenges and Solutions in Active Listening36:03 Conclusion and Next StepsEssential Skills Slideshows

Join Amanda Werner and her good friend Jessica Martin in this insightful episode as they dive deep into navigating life with autism and other neurodivergent conditions in adulthood. Jess shares personal experiences about her sensory sensitivities and struggles with social anxiety, while Amanda discusses the process and importance of receiving an autism diagnosis later in life. They explore how self-awareness can improve entrepreneurial endeavors and offer resources for self-assessment through a website called Embrace Autism. Stay tuned for a candid conversation filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and valuable insights for managing a neurodivergent life in adulthood00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:36 Amanda's Autism Diagnosis Journey02:04 Jess's Sensory Sensitivities05:11 The Cost and Process of Adult Autism Diagnosis06:07 Self-Diagnosis and Understanding Neurodivergence07:19 Impact of Diagnosis on Personal and Professional Life14:21 Resources and Assessments for Autism19:08 Sharing the Diagnosis with Family21:13 Conclusion and FarewellResources: embrace-autism.com

In this special New Year's episode Amanda shares some big news, that she's Autistic! To help Amanda reveal this difficult and amazing truth to the world Amanda brings on her co-host, Jessica Martin from Two Wacky Teacherpreneurs Tell All podcast. They discuss Amanda's recent autism diagnosis and its implications. Amanda shares her emotional journey and the significance of understanding neurodivergence. The conversation explores strategies for supporting neurodivergent students in educational settings, including the innovative use of AI tools like Claude for lesson differentiation. The episode also touches on societal perceptions of autism and the importance of recognizing and accommodating diverse needs in the classroom. Join Jess and Amanda as they candidly navigate this substantial and personal topic.00:00 Introduction and Initial Nervousness00:52 Revealing the Diagnosis01:56 Podcast Introduction02:38 Discussing Autism and Neurodivergence06:48 Using AI for Differentiation10:03 Challenges and Strategies for Neurodivergent Students14:19 Personal Reflections on Autism18:11 Concluding Thoughts and Next Episode Teaser24:14 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Free Editable Slides to Teach Critical Thinking SkillsAmanda Werner discusses the importance of critical thinking for both students and adults in this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast. Highlighting that critical thinking involves asking good questions, examining information, recognizing biases, and being open to changing viewpoints, she provides practical steps for teaching and practicing this skill. Through various examples and classroom scenarios, Amanda emphasizes the need for intellectual humility and the importance of fostering a safe environment for questioning and learning. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences of changing their minds based on new evidence and to share these insights with their students.00:00 Introduction and Holiday Wishes00:23 Introducing Critical Thinking02:38 Defining Critical Thinking04:38 Classroom Scenarios and Questions06:34 Challenges in the Information Age08:30 Teaching Critical Thinking11:08 Evaluating Sources and Evidence13:00 The Importance of Questioning17:12 Emotional Influence and Willingness to Change19:32 Practical Tips for Educators22:49 Conclusion and Reflection

Free Editable Slides to Teach Ethical Reasoning & More!In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda Werner delves into the crucial skill of ethical reasoning. With the advent of AI and its pervasive impact on education and social dynamics, Amanda emphasizes the importance of teaching students to navigate complex, gray-area situations where right and wrong aren't always clear-cut. She discusses practical strategies to help students identify ethical dilemmas, understand multiple perspectives, and reflect on their choices. The episode offers insights for educators on integrating ethical reasoning into everyday teaching and provides resources like an editable slideshow and ethical dilemma scenarios to facilitate learning. Amanda also shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the challenge and necessity of fostering ethical understanding in a rapidly evolving world.00:00 Introduction to Essential Skills for Students01:21 Understanding Ethical Reasoning02:12 Real-Life Ethical Dilemmas in Schools03:05 Guiding Students Through Ethical Reasoning08:19 Teaching Ethical Reasoning in the Classroom10:55 Conclusion and ReflectionEthics/Digital Citizenship Posters

Free Editable Google Slides to Teach Self Advocacy & MoreIn this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda discusses the critical issue of violence against educators, highlighted by a recent study from the National Education Association and the American Psychological Association. She shares shocking statistics from the 2021-2022 school year, revealing the prevalence of verbal and physical violence towards teachers. Amanda urges educators to use this data to advocate for safer school environments. Here's a link to the report: https://www.nea.org/resource-library/keeping-educators-and-students-safeThe episode then explores strategies for teaching self-advocacy to students, emphasizing its lifelong importance and the need to create supportive classroom cultures. Amanda provides practical tips for fostering self-advocacy, shares personal stories, and offers tools for integrating these skills into any curriculum. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their responses to student advocacy and consider changes to better support their students. The episode underscores that empowering students and teachers through self-advocacy can lead to a more equitable and compassionate educational experience.00:00 Introduction and Recent Study on Violence Against Educators03:05 Personal Reflections on Burnout and Self-Advocacy08:32 Welcome to the Empower Students Now Podcast09:36 The Impact of AI on Education11:41 Essential Skills for Student Success: Self-Knowledge and Advocacy17:22 Teaching Self-Advocacy: Strategies and Stories21:01 Creating a Culture of Self-Advocacy in the Classroom27:41 Practical Strategies for Encouraging Self-Advocacy30:03 Conclusion and Reflection

Access Editable Slides to Teach Self-KnowledgeIn this new series about preparing students for an unknown future, Amanda Werner delves into the essential skill of self-knowledge. The episode explores how self-knowledge can help students navigate an uncertain future influenced by AI advancements. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Amanda explains how biases and labels from adults can shape a student's identity and why it's crucial for students to have the final say in who they are. The episode offers practical steps and guiding questions for educators to help students develop self-awareness, urging them to reflect on their interests and emotions, and to experiment with various activities. The episode concludes with a challenge for educators to set aside their preconceived labels and rediscover their students' true selves.00:00 Introduction to the Series01:16 The Importance of Self-Knowledge06:05 Personal Journey and Reflections13:53 Guiding Students to Self-Discovery19:48 Conclusion and Next Episode PreviewResource Mentioned: Journal Writing Unit 

In this final episode in a four part series, Amanda Werner talks with Adrian Martinca about the critical pivot period we are in because of AI technology. The conversation outlines three phases: the enchantment phase of initial technological magic, the pivot phase where AI threatens existing dreams, and the potential future of the "Purpose Economy" or "Dream Economy". Adrian emphasizes the importance of encouraging adults, teachers and parents, to become champions for our children's futures amid technological disruption. He discusses the need for meaningful conversations with children to safeguard their sense of purpose and shares various resources and tools to facilitate these conversations, including the "Dream Guide". The episode underscores the importance of addressing the current mental health crisis among children and adults. We must reshape education to prioritize dreams, purpose, and wellbeing.00:00 Introduction: The Technology Paradox00:40 The Three Phases of Technological Impact01:12 Adrian's Commitment to Protecting Our Kids01:26 The Current Crisis in Education02:08 Adrian's Vision for the Future02:52 The Enchantment Phase: A Teacher's Perspective04:00 The Pivot Phase: The Threat of AI04:13 The Purpose Economy: A New Vision07:59 The Importance of Proactive Conversations11:19 Starting the Movement: The Open Doors Movement13:39 Empowering Kids Through the "Dream Guide"24:25 The Role of Parents and Teachers in the Future of Education32:15 Conclusion: Shaping the Future with IntentionResourcesKids Dream MatterTechnology for the FutureOpen Doors MovementAmanda Write Now

Host, Amanda Werner, continues her interview with Adrian Martinca in this episode. Adrian is a technologist and activist working tirelessly on behalf of  children. Adrian invites us to imagine a future where AI has replaced the workforce and the power and efficiency of AI tools has advanced so far that academic learning can be distilled into 20% of the school day, the other 80% of the time? Well, that's where things get exciting and hopeful! Adrian advocates for a transformation in educational focus during this 80% of the school day. This time could allow for more space to breathe, to heal, for adults to pause and really listen to what children have to say. Importantly, this precious time could allow adults to champion the dreams of children. Adrian also discusses his dream of creation of free an online curriculum to support emotional development and familial communication. 00:00 Understanding Kids' Feelings02:36 The Impact of Technology on Youth04:56 Overparenting and Its Consequences07:03 Screen Time and Mental Health07:35 The Role of Technology in Child Development15:08 The Future of Parenting and Education19:12 The Future of Education and Technology20:49 Creating a Compassionate Curriculum22:22 Blaming Technology and Uniting Humanity23:56 Developing Free Online Resources25:09 Revolutionizing Social Emotional Learning28:09 Empowering Teachers and Students31:34 Project-Based Learning and Dream Guides34:38 Involving Kids in Shaping the FutureResourcesKids Dream MatterTechnology for the FutureOpen Doors MovementAmanda Write Now

In this episode, Amanda Werner and Adrian Martinca discuss the fundamental contradictions faced by educators and parents in preparing children for a future dominated by AI. They delve into the disparities between current educational goals and real future job prospects, emphasizing the potential obsolescence of many professions due to automation. The conversation stresses the importance of focusing on children's mental health, sense of purpose, and emotional intelligence as the bedrock of education. Drawing on personal anecdotes and larger societal observations, they argue for a shift towards a purpose-driven, family-oriented learning environment, urging educators to pivot from material-based education to nurturing the human soul. The episode concludes with calls for grassroots efforts and community engagement to bring about this transformative change.00:00 Defining Reality in Education and Technology00:39 The Impact of AI on Jobs and Education01:27 The Future of Work and AI's Role02:08 Introduction to the Empower Students Now Podcast02:23 Current Education System Challenges03:15 AI's Influence on Everyday Jobs05:22 The Role of Feelings in Education05:53 A Personal Story: The Birth of a Vision08:32 Mental Health and the Purpose Economy18:41 Homeschooling and Alternative Education20:52 The Future of Education and Personal Development23:20 The Value of Waking Up23:37 Concerns About Money and Education25:14 Future of Work and Family Life27:28 Addressing Inequality and Homelessness28:36 AI's Impact on Education and Jobs34:06 Preparing for a New Economy39:29 The Role of Community and Kindness42:21 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResourcesKids Dream MatterTechnology for the FutureOpen Doors MovementAmanda Write Now

Part 1 of a 5-Part Series: Your Guide to Navigating AI's Impact on Kids, Education, and the FutureHost Amanda Werner and guest Adrian Martinca dive into the challenges and opportunities of technology and AI in education. Adrian shares his personal journey from overcoming the digital divide to founding a nonprofit that empowers kids through access to technology. Together, they explore the impact of AI on children’s dreams, mental health, and the future of learning—emphasizing the importance of open conversations, values, and putting kids’ well-being and feelings at the center of the tech revolution.0:00 – Introduction & Setting the StageAmanda introduces Adrian Martinca and frames the episode’s focus on AI, technology, and education.1:05 – Adrian’s BackgroundAdrian shares his journey from Slovakia to North America, his early experiences with technology, and his motivation to bridge the digital divide.3:12 – Founding Technology for the FutureAdrian discusses starting his nonprofit, giving away computers, and focusing on children’s dreams.4:20 – The Importance of DreamsExploring how technology can both empower and limit children’s aspirations.5:15 – AI as “Alien Intelligence”Adrian introduces the concept of AI as “alien intelligence” and discusses its unpredictable impact.7:00 – Navigating AI’s Role in SocietyAmanda and Adrian talk about the challenges of integrating AI into daily life, education, and the workforce.10:00 – The Three Phases of Technological ChangeAdrian outlines the “enchantment,” “pivot,” and “purpose economy” phases of tech evolution.13:00 – Screen Time & Mental HealthDiscussion of rising screen time among children, its effects on family dynamics, and the need for open conversations.16:00 – The Role of Parents and EducatorsEmphasizing the importance of values, safe spaces, and proactive dialogue in guiding children through the tech era.20:00 – Looking ForwardAmanda and Adrian reflect on the need for hope, community, and a focus on well-being as technology continues to evolve.Key TakeawaysTechnology should be a pathway to dreams, not a barrier.AI’s rapid evolution requires new approaches to education, parenting, and mental health.Open, honest dialogue and a focus on children’s well-being are essential for a positive future.ResourcesTechnology for the Future: https://t4tf.org/Open Doors Movement: https://opendoorsmovement.org/Amanda's Website-Amanda Write Now

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, the host Amanda Werner, delves into the heavy topics of suicide and self-harm in relation to AI chatbots. This is part three of a series reflecting on the concerning impact of AI on students, parents, and teachers, especially focusing on the host's personal experiences as a parent. The episode discusses various incidents where AI chatbots have negatively affected children, including a tragic case involving an AI chatbot that led to a teenager's suicide. Emphasizing the necessity of informed discussions about the ethics and safety of AI, Amanda explores the deep concerns about the lack of regulation and control over AI technologies.Articles: https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2024/08/another-year-ai-college-cheating/679502/https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2025/08/ai-mass-delusion-event/683909/https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/30/tech/teen-suicide-character-ai-lawsuithttps://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2025/09/ai-parenting-app/684303/https://med.stanford.edu/news/insights/2025/08/ai-chatbots-kids-teens-artificial-intelligence.htmlTimestamps:00:00 Introduction and Content Warning00:16 The Impact of AI on Education02:33 Personal Story: AI's Effect on My Family03:22 The Dangers of AI Chatbots for Kids07:22 A Parent's Dilemma: Managing AI Use08:35 The Broader Implications of AI12:08 The Black Box Problem15:09 Conclusion and Call to Action

Amanda Werner on AI in Teaching and Teacherpreneurship: Part 2In this episode, Amanda Werner, former teacher and current teacherpreneur, dives into her evolving perspective on AI, specifically chatbots like ChatGPT. After initially embracing AI for classroom use and her online business, Amanda shares why she has grown skeptical about the ethical implications of AI, particularly concerning content creation and copyright issues. She discusses her personal experiences with various AI tools and their impact on her professional life, while also touching on broader societal concerns over AI’s influence. This is Part 2 of a series, with the next episode focusing on her viewpoint as a parent.00:00 Introduction and Support01:51 Podcast Overview and AI Concerns05:53 Teacherpreneur and AI Tools09:26 Ethical Dilemmas with AI17:28 Copyright Issues and AI26:56 Conclusion and Next Episode PreviewArticles Mentioned: https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2024/02/generative-ai-lawsuits-copyright-fair-use/677595/https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2025/03/libgen-meta-openai/682093/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/jun/04/reddit-lawsuit-ai-startup-anthropic-data

In this episode Amanda reflects on her journey with AI chatbots since the release of ChatGPT in 2022. She shares her mixed feelings about the impact of AI in education, discussing initial excitement and later deep concerns. The episode covers her efforts to integrate ChatGPT into her classroom last school year and how she handled the pervasive cheating issues she encountered in her English classroom. Amanda also reveals plans to delve deeper into the downsides of AI in future episodes, so stay tuned! Episodes to the Previous AI Series from 2022:7 Ways Chatgpt Will Impact Education Positivelyhttps://amandawritenow.com/chatgpt-impact-on-education/How to Prevent Plagiarism with Chatgpthttps://amandawritenow.com/my-best-ideas-to-prevent-cheating-with-chat-gpt-how-to-handle-plagiarism-suspects/How to Talk to Students about Chatgpthttps://amandawritenow.com/how-to-talk-to-students-about-chat-gpt-and-increase-academic-honesty-too/00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts on AI00:40 The Impact of AI on Education02:34 Personal Reflections and Experiences Using AI in the Classroom09:58 Teaching Ethics and Responsible AI Use16:18 Challenges and Consequences of AI in the Classroom21:35 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, Amanda addresses a common issue faced by teachers: students who are disengaged. Drawing from personal experiences as a teacher and a parent of a neurodivergent child, the Amanda discusses the importance of moving away from the traditional way of approaching these kinds of unwanted behaviors and instead focusing on a different approach. Amanda describes how in her experience, building strong, positive relationships with students can make a difference in the quality of life for both the teacher and student. Emphasizing that all behavior is a form of communication, Amanda advocates for a collaborative approach with children, involving honest conversations with students about their behavior and motivations. The episode underscores the critical role of relationships and emotional connections in fostering a conducive learning environment.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: Addressing Student Apathy01:12 The Traditional Approach to Classroom Management01:56 A Shift in Perspective: Understanding Student Behavior06:49 The Power of Building Relationships12:16 The Importance of Free Time and Mental Health12:58 Conclusion: Embracing Vulnerability and Changehttps://amandawritenow.com/listener-favorite-a-new-way-to-think-about-apathetic-unmotivated-and-defiant-students/

In the final episode of this eight-part mindfulness and meditation series, Amanda Werner brings it all together—sharing how to weave mindfulness, self-compassion, and simple rituals into your daily life. From experimenting with small, accessible practices to cultivating deep calm and balance (equanimity) amidst stressful lives, this episode offers practical wisdom and heartfelt reflection for teachers, parents, students, and anyone seeking peace in a busy world.Amanda also shares personal updates about her journey away from the classroom, homeschooling her daughter, and navigating life with chronic pain—all while finding ways to stay grounded and openhearted.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeThe four keys to sustaining mindfulness: experimentation, ritual, equanimity, and self-compassion.How to create simple rituals that bring grounding and meaning to your day.Why equanimity—calm in the midst of chaos—is the heart of a sustainable mindfulness practice.Ways to integrate mindful breathing, body awareness, and compassionate self-talk into your work and home life.A guided meditation to help you embody balance, presence, and peace.Timestamps00:00 – Welcome & updates on Amanda’s journey04:00 – Series recap: seven practices that build a foundation for mindfulness20:00 – The four pillars to incorporating these practices: experimentation, ritual, equanimity, and self-compassion35:00 – Guided meditation for balance and presenceResources & Links🖤 Explore resources: https://amandawritenow.com🖤 Review and share the podcast on Apple Podcasts to help more educators find these toolsMeditation Mini Lesson 3rd-5th Grade:🖤 https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-for-3rd-5th-Grade-13806933?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Meditation%20and%20Minfulness Meditation Mini Lesson 6th-8th Grade:🖤 https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-6th-8th-Grade-13815439?

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, Amanda explores the complexities of working with physical, mental, and emotional pain, drawing from the teachings of mindfulness expert Christiane Wolf MD. The discussion covers the prevalence of chronic pain, differentiates between pain and suffering, and introduces techniques for managing pain using mindfulness and meditation. The episode includes a guided meditation designed to help listeners identify and manage pain more effectively, aiming to offer valuable insights and alleviation strategies for both educators and anyone experiencing chronic pain or the grief of the loss of a loved one.00:00 Introduction to Working with Pain00:05 Meet Christian Wolf: Mindfulness Expert01:11 Personal Experiences with Chronic Pain01:35 Understanding Pain: Physical and Mental04:50 Cultural Attitudes Towards Pain09:15 The Two Arrows of Pain12:22 Practical Techniques for Managing Pain23:24 Guided Meditation for Pain ReliefResources: https://www.christianewolf.com/Meditation Mini Lesson 3rd-5th Grade:https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-for-3rd-5th-Grade-13806933?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Meditation%20and%20Minfulness Meditation Mini Lesson 6th-8th Grade:https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-6th-8th-Grade-13815439?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Mindfulness%20and%20Meditation

Cultivating Loving Kindness: Exploring Metta MeditationIn this episode of the Empower Students Now Podcast, your host, Amanda Werner, delves into the practice of Metta or Loving Kindness Meditation. As part of an eight-part series on meditation and mindfulness for teachers and students, Amanda shares insights from her extensive teaching career and her training as a meditation teacher. She explains the steps to practicing Metta, including starting with those easiest to love, and expanding outward. Additionally, Amanda reads poignant quotes from Sharon Salzberg's book, 'Loving Kindness, the Revolutionary Art of Happiness,' and discusses the importance of boundaries and compassion. The episode concludes with a guided meditation designed to help listeners cultivate loving kindness and a compassionate mindset. Listeners are encouraged to share the podcast, visit Amanda's website, https://amandawritenow.com for additional resources, and reflect on their experiences with the series.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Support02:52 Episode Introduction: Loving Kindness05:07 Understanding Metta: Loving Kindness08:44 Personal Stories and Challenges15:03 Steps to Practicing Metta18:11 Guided Meditation on Loving KindnessMeditation Mini Lesson 3rd-5th Grade:https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-for-3rd-5th-Grade-13806933?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Meditation%20and%20Minfulness Meditation Mini Lesson 6th-8th Grade:https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-6th-8th-Grade-13815439?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Mindfulness%20and%20Meditation

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, Amanda shares a deeply emotional talk on the importance of compassion, particularly self-compassion, for educators. Through a recounting of her own personal journey and learnings from the MMTCP program, she introduces the RAIN technique—Recognize, Allow, Investigate, Nurture—created by Tara Brach, as a tool for addressing negative self-talk and fostering a kinder inner dialogue. The episode includes a powerful 15-minute guided meditation to help listeners practice self-compassion, complete with actionable steps and gentle reassurances. Amanda also discusses the significance of tears as a healing response and offers resources for teaching mindfulness to children. This episode is part five of an eight-part series aimed at supporting and renewing burnt-out teachers. Listeners are encouraged to share the podcast, visit Amanda's website, https://amandawritenow.com for additional resources, and reflect on their experiences with the series.00:00 Introduction and Overview04:21 The Importance of Self-Compassion08:54 Recognizing Negative Patterns15:21 Guided Meditation: Practicing RAIN28:31 Closing Thoughts and GratitudeMeditation Mini Lesson 3rd-5th Grade:https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-for-3rd-5th-Grade-13806933?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Meditation%20and%20Minfulness Meditation Mini Lesson 6th-8th Grade:https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-6th-8th-Grade-13815439?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Mindfulness%20and%20Meditation

In this fourth episode of an eight-part series on meditation and mindfulness, the discussion focuses on being mindful of thoughts. Amanda recently received her certification to teach meditation. She explains how thoughts are mental processes influenced by various factors like environment, culture, and emotions. The episode debunks the myth that meditation aims to stop thoughts, highlighting instead the importance of noticing them. It covers the neural basis of thoughts and offers practical advice on using breath as an anchor during meditation. Personal anecdotes and stories from the classroom demonstrate the significance of observing and questioning thoughts to reduce suffering and promote self-compassion and in turn compassion toward others, including students. The episode concludes with a guided meditation exercise aimed at helping teachers and listeners become more aware of their thinking patterns.00:00 Introduction to Mindfulness of Thoughts01:08 Understanding Thoughts and Their Influence03:43 The Practice of Noticing Thoughts07:16 The Power of Noting and Naming Thoughts10:03 A Touching Story on Mindfulness12:46 Judgment and Bias in Education16:58 Exercise: Counting Your Thoughts23:18 Guided Meditation for Noticing ThoughtsResources: Meditation Mini Lesson 3rd-5th Gradehttps://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-for-3rd-5th-Grade-13806933Meditation Mini Lesson 6th-8th Gradehttps://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-6th-8th-Grade-13815439https://amandawritenow.com/a-new-way-to-think-about-thinking/

https://amandawritenow.com/navigating-the-complexities-of-our-emotional-lives-with-mindfulness-meditation/In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, the third installment of an eight-part mindfulness series, the focus is on emotions. Drawing on insights from the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program (MMTCP), Amanda, the host of the podcast, addresses how emotions manifest in both mind and body, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and meditation in recognizing and managing them. The episode includes a discussion on the diversity of emotional experiences, the significance of the nervous system in emotional regulation, and practical tips for teachers and social justice advocates to integrate mindfulness into their lives. Additionally, the host guides listeners through a meditative practice to better understand and manage their emotions.00:00 Introduction to Emotions and Mindfulness Series02:19 Defining Emotions and Personal Reflections07:22 Family History and Emotional Conditioning12:46 Understanding the Nervous System and Emotions18:12 Naming and Identifying Emotions24:04 Primary vs. Secondary Emotions30:20 Guided Meditation on Emotions

https://amandawritenow.com/finding-calm-amongst-the-chaos-of-life-part-ii-the-body-as-your-anchor/Contact Me: https://amandawritenow.com/contact-form/In this episode, part two of an eight-part series, Amanda discusses her journey through the Mindfulness and Meditation Teacher Certification Program (MMTCP) and the profound lessons she learned. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, especially for women, teachers, and social justice advocates who often experience overwhelm and self-blame. Amanda defines mindfulness and meditation, highlighting the benefits of body awareness. She shares practical techniques for body scan and walking meditation to help listeners find peace and presence amidst the stressors of modern life. The episode concludes with a guided body scan meditation to practice these principles.00:00 Introduction to the Series00:40 Personal Journey into Meditation01:39 Teaching Mindfulness to Women03:20 Challenges of Modern Life and Self-Care09:22 Defining Mindfulness and Meditation17:16 Body Scan Meditation Techniques24:23 Beginning of Guided Body Scan Meditation

In this episode, Amanda welcomes Jen Chieco, a former teacher who transitioned into becoming a life purpose coach who specializes in empowering teens. They discuss Jen's teaching background, her reasons for leaving public education, and how she found her true calling through life coaching and breath work. Jen shares insights on the challenges of teaching in public schools, the importance of supportive administration, and the impact of nurturing relationships with students. They delve into breath work as a powerful tool for mental health and personal growth, and Jen offers actionable tips for both educators and students to find purpose and empowerment in their lives.You'll Learn: -How Jen transitioned from teaching full time in a public school to being coach-Jen's methodology for supporting teens and adults-Breathwork techniques you can use in and outside of the classroom-How to foster positive relationships with students-Jen's inspiring views on what empowerment is and how to empower yourself as well as your studentsResources Mentioned:jenchieco.com/services (Free 30 Minute Coaching Discovery Call)jenchieco.com/breathwork (Breathwork Sessions)https://open.spotify.com/artist/7lnGKrOWAuKvNoxEleY8Vm?si=asaUZkUsSdCwIRL_7bpEOw (David Elliott Breathwork Healer Spotify)

https://amandawritenow.com/finding-calm-amongst-the-chaos-of-life/Contact Me: https://amandawritenow.com/contact-form/Amanda returns after a long hiatus, excited to start a new season focused on mindfulness, neurodiversity, equity, and student engagement. In this special episode, Amanda shares a recording of her first mindfulness class from her practicum, which is part of her Mindfulness and Meditation Teacher Training Certification Program(MMTCP). The class includes a 10-minute talk on the challenges of slowing down and using the breath to do so, followed by an 8-minute meditation to practice using the breath as an anchor. Amanda discusses the significance of breath as a tool for calm and peace amid the chaos of life, particularly for teachers. She also introduces various breathing techniques and their benefits. The episode concludes with a guided meditation exercise aimed at helping listeners find tranquility.00:00 Welcome Back!01:00 Introducing the Practicum04:35 The Power of Breath10:05 Personal Meditation Journey13:09 Breathing Techniques19:39 Guided Meditation28:01 Closing Thoughts

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Check out the episode show notes and Vanessa's book here: https://amandawritenow.com/navigating-adult-adhd-a-personal-and-professional-journey/In this episode, host Amanda interviews Vanessa Jones, an English teacher, writer, and voice actor who has recently authored a guidebook on adult ADHD. Vanessa discusses her personal experience with an adult ADHD diagnosis, the unnoticed symptoms in women, and the impact on her life and career. She shares insights on teaching with ADHD, the benefits of structured environments, and the accommodations that helped her succeed. The conversation also touches on Vanessa's transition to voice acting and entrepreneurship, and the importance of recognizing neurodiversity in education. Both Amanda and Vanessa reflect on the strengths that individuals with ADHD bring to teaching.

Check out the show notes, transcript, and more here: https://amandawritenow.com/the-revealing-reality-struggling-readers-face-within-the-u-s-education-system/In this episode of Empower Students Now, host Amanda interviews her sister Shelly Gonsalves, who opens up about her lifelong struggle with reading and learning difficulties. Shelly recounts her early educational challenges, the lack of support she faced, and the emotional toll it took on her self-esteem. Despite these obstacles, she persevered, exploring various career paths from graphic design to welding, and ultimately finding her place in law enforcement. Shelly's story is one of resilience and determination, as she now uses her experiences to advocate for children with similar struggles and to inspire others through her volunteer work and creative pursuits. The episode is a touching testament to overcoming adversity. But, it is also reveals the heart breaking reality of what happens to struggling readers in a system not built to support them, or their teachers.

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda Werner shares her personal journey of discovering that she has ADHD and the importance of teachers understanding this condition. Amanda explains that many students in classrooms may be undiagnosed with ADHD, and that girls are often not diagnosed due to societal expectations of girls. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the science behind these conditions and recognizing the strengths that come with these differences, such as creativity and high intelligence. Listen to this episode to learn how to embrace your differences and recognize your strengths. Learn more about ADHD from the best source of information on this topic: https://www.additudemag.com/https://amandawritenow.com/i-found-out-i-have-adhd-at-age-40/

Do you want to teach your students how to read more effectively and prepare them for college and life? In this podcast episode, Amanda discusses the book "Reading Reconsidered" by Doug Lemov, which provides a wealth of information on how to improve students' reading abilities. The book emphasizes the importance of equity in education and student engagement. It is organized around four important elements of reading instruction. Amanda goes through the chapters of the book and highlights key points, such as the importance of selecting challenging texts, using close reading practices, and analyzing meaning via text-dependent questions.While Amanda praises the book overall, she expresses some reservations about the authors' reliance on cold calling as a teaching technique. She also recommends being mindful when practicing reading with students who have learning disabilities. If you want to learn how to teach rigorous analytical reading skills, check out this episode and the book talk series available for purchase here: https://www.empowerstudentsnow.com/equity-book-talks-for-english-teachers

Are you an English teacher looking to create an anti-racist writing workshop that prioritizes student voices and celebrates diversity? Look no further than "The Antiracist Writing Workshop" by Felicia Rose Chavez. In this episode, Amanda provides a detailed review and valuable insights on how to transform the traditional writing workshop model. From creating a safe and inclusive environment to incorporating mindfulness and reflection, this episode emphasizes the importance of prioritizing student agency and building partnerships with students. Tune in and learn how to create a student-centered workshop that fosters camaraderie and celebrates the collective power of diverse voices. Purchase the entire Social Justice and Equity Book Talk Series here: https://www.empowerstudentsnow.com/equity-book-talks-for-english-teachers

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda shares her summer plans and introduces a series of episodes where she provides overviews of eight books on educational equity and social justice that she read in 2021. She also offers a toolkit for teachers that includes editable planning tools, charts, posters, mentor texts, assessment tools, and conferencing tools. Amanda then discusses the book "Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain" by Zaretta Hammond, which focuses on moving students toward becoming independent learners, especially marginalized students or students of color. She highlights the importance of cultural awareness and establishing trust with students.Purchase all the equity book talks and notes here: https://www.empowerstudentsnow.com/equity-book-talks-for-english-teachers

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, Amanda introduces her new course, The Empowered English Classroom, which aims to increase student engagement through equitable teaching practices. The host discusses the Empowered English Classroom framework, which includes steps for increasing student engagement, implementing equitable grading practices, and developing a systematic planning system. Amanda emphasizes the importance of building relationships, avoiding biases, and adapting teaching methods to meet students' needs. The course starts on June 3rd, and teachers who sign up will receive all the necessary resources to implement the framework.

In this podcast episode, Amanda discusses the negative impact of shaming kids and ourselves for screen use. She argues that screens can have benefits for neurodivergent individuals and others seeking community, and emphasizes the importance of cultivating a safe environment for students to communicate with each other in the classroom. Amanda also shares her personal experiences with therapy and the harmful effects of labeling behaviors as "good" or "bad." She suggests having conversations with children to understand their screen use and interests, discussing internet safety with them, and incorporating screen time into the classroom. Amanda concludes by emphasizing the importance of not shaming children for their screen use and creating a supportive environment for them instead.

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, Amanda discusses how to handle apathetic and defiant students in the classroom. She shares her personal experience as a parent of a neurodivergent child and suggests a collaborative approach that involves building relationships with students and engaging them in conversation about their behavior and the impact it might be having on others. Amanda emphasizes the importance of explaining the purpose of classroom work and valuing students’ intelligence and bright spirits. She also encourages teachers to have heart-to-heart conversations with the whole class or specific groups of students to address the classroom environment and highlights how overloading students with constant work may be exacerbating the mental health crisis among students and adults.

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, Amanda shares that she is currently enrolled in a mindfulness and meditation teacher program and leads a guided meditation for teachers called "Dropping the Suitcases of Worries and Regrets" to help them reduce anxiety and let go of feelings of not doing enough for their students. Amanda instructs listeners to find a comfortable place to sit or lie down and relax their bodies, and guides them through a visualization exercise where they drop their worries and regrets. Amanda concludes by reminding listeners that they are enough and have everything they need in the present moment.