The Inspired Athlete

Welcome to the Inspired Athlete podcast! Today, I'm getting real about my own fitness journey—from the frustrating yo-yo dieting days to chasing heavy lifting goals at 44 years old. We're diving deep into the power of focus and why Epictetus was right when he said you become what you set your mind to. I'll break down how your brain's Reticular Activating System acts like a "proof-seeking machine" that often defaults to keeping you safe and stuck in yesterday's habits. But don't worry, I'm giving you the manual override tools—meditation and visualization—to help you stop waiting for the scoreboard to tell you you're good enough and start "preloading" the evidence of the athlete you are working to become.

Welcome to the Inspired Athlete podcast! In this episode, I'm diving deep into the "sacred" space of the car ride home and why we need to stop letting "monsters" of future anxiety take up a seat in our vehicles . As sports parents, it's so easy to slip into coaching mode or let our own frustrations leak out after a tough loss, but our athletes' brains are wired for survival and often see those critiques as a reason to quit . Drawing on wisdom from Paulo Coelho and Marcus Aurelius, I discuss how extraordinary parenting is found in the simple things—like knowing when a kid just needs a quiet ride or a Chick-fil-A milkshake instead of a lecture on footwork . Let's commit to making our cars a safe place to fail so our kids can build the genuine confidence they need to succeed .

Welcome to the Inspired Athlete podcast! In today's episode, we're tackling the "biggest misconception" in sports: the idea that confidence comes from winning. I open up about the "hardest part" of being a coach and parent—watching an athlete struggle when you know they have the talent, but something in their head is "blocking them". We dive into 2,000-year-old Stoic wisdom, specifically the "dichotomy of control," to explain why anchoring your self-belief to results like victories or rankings makes your confidence "fragile". Instead, we talk about building a "stable foundation" based on things you actually own: your preparation, your effort, and your response to adversity. Whether you're an athlete wrestling with doubt or a parent trying to help, it's time to shift your focus from the scoreboard to the choices you make every single day.

Welcome to the Inspired Athlete podcast! In today's episode, we're breaking down why some athletes are absolute "gamers" while others struggle to bring their practice-room energy to the big stage. Drawing on Stoic wisdom and the fascinating concept of the "Quiet Eye," we explore the idea that we don't actually rise to the level of our competition—we fail to the level of our preparation. I'm sharing stories from my coaching days about athletes who thrived under pressure and discussing how mental fatigue can shift your focus from being the predator to becoming the prey. If you've ever felt the weight of a "big moment," this one is for you; we're looking at how to normalize anxiety and train your mind to stay calm so your muscle memory can do the work when the lights get bright.  

Welcome to the Inspired Athlete podcast! In this episode, I share how a late-night TikTok scroll led me to the band Tucked In, who quickly became the soundtrack for my son and me while he navigated a long, difficult recovery from a freak baseball injury . Beyond just the music, the kindness and personal interest the band members showed my son really hit home for me as a dad . We're diving into the concept of being a "time traveler"—the way athletes constantly replay missed shots and past failures in their minds . Using insights from Dr. Nate Zinser's The Confident Mind, I explain how our brains act as gatekeepers and why we must filter for evidence of our growth and success instead of just our shortcomings . Stick around to hear the full track of "Time Traveler" by Tucked In at the end of the show, and make sure to visit inspiredathletemp.com to sign up for my newsletter and grab your free parent discussion guide .

Welcome to the Inspired Athlete Podcast! In this episode, I reflect on a powerful moment during the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships and a message from Ed Mylett in a conversation with Jay Shetty that completely reframed a tough setback for one of my wrestlers. After falling short of his goal of becoming an All-American—even while several guys he had beaten ended up on the podium—we talk about the critical choice athletes face after disappointment: adopting limiting beliefs or choosing a perspective that keeps possibility alive. I also explore how the brain constantly looks for evidence to confirm what we believe and why the idea of doing "one more"—one more rep, one more adjustment, one more effort—can change the trajectory of an athlete's career.   Be sure to check out The Inspired Athlete Mental Performance for some free resources, to sign up for our email list and to schedule a discovery call to see what the program can do for you. 

Welcome to The Inspired Athlete Podcast! In this episode, we dig into a powerful idea about performance: while thoughts matter, they don't get the final say—identity does. Drawing on an insight from Mike Travisano's Refuge in Small Things, we explore the loop between belief, thoughts, emotions, actions, and results, and how the story we carry about who we are shapes everything that follows. I share some reflections from a weekend coaching at the state tournament—van rides, lobby checkers, and honest conversations with athletes—and what stood out about the mindset of two champions. It wasn't that they never had doubts. They did. But their identity was stronger than the doubt, and they knew how to return to the beliefs they'd built through preparation and hard work. This episode is a reminder that champions don't necessarily have better thoughts—they have stronger identities—and it's those identities that guide their actions when it matters most.

Welcome to the Inspired Athlete Podcast! This episode is a reflection on one unforgettable weekend filled with highs, heartbreaks, growth, and powerful reminders about what sport is really teaching us. From watching my son compete at his state tournament, to coaching athletes chasing championships and state qualifications, to supporting a college wrestler fighting for one last shot at nationals, I was reminded that competition is never about guarantees — it's about the what if. We talk about success that doesn't arrive on our timeline, the lessons hidden inside losses, and why struggle is actually the proving ground where confidence, resilience, and character are built. Drawing on insights from wrestling, coaching, parenting, Stoic wisdom, and great thinkers like Emerson and Tolstoy, this episode challenges athletes, parents, and coaches to rethink what greatness really means — not medals or outcomes, but who we become through effort, persistence, and the courage to keep showing up when things don't go our way.

Welcome to the Inspired Athlete podcast! Today we're diving into a powerful truth that can completely change the way you compete: your thoughts and feelings are real—but they don't get the final say in your performance. Identity does. We've all been told to "just think positive," but what happens when nerves show up anyway? What do you do when doubt creeps in before a big match or game? In this episode, we're talking about why you're not responsible for the first thought that pops into your head—but you are responsible for what comes next—and how building a strong sense of who you are as an athlete becomes your greatest competitive advantage. Let's get into it.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher podcast! In this episode, Just Stop Worrying, I lean on the timeless wisdom of Marcus Aurelius in Meditations to remind us of something we all need to hear—far more of our mental energy is spent on things that are completely outside our control. Whether it's the opinions of others, the outcomes we can't predict, or the "what ifs" that keep looping in our minds, worry quietly steals our focus and presence. This episode is a simple but powerful invitation to pause, reset, and recommit to what actually belongs to us: our thoughts, our actions, and how we show up each day.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher podcast! In this very personal episode, I look back on nearly four years and 273 episodes of hitting "record," sharing ideas, and growing alongside educators across the U.S. and Canada. I talk about why I started the show back in 2022, what I'm most proud of, and why I'm now making a big pivot out of the education podcast space. This isn't goodbye to teaching—it's an expansion into mental performance work with wrestlers, athletes, and their parents. Drawing on my own wrestling regrets, years of coaching since 2004, and what I've learned through training with Lindsay Wilson and Positive Performance, I explain why this moment feels right and why understanding how the brain works changed everything for me. It's a reflective, honest, and hopeful episode about leaving the familiar, getting "in the mud," and stepping into what's next. If you'd like to learn more about what I'm offering, please sign up for a free 30-minute discovery call with this link. 

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher podcast! It's been a while, and in this episode, I talk about why I'm back behind the mic and how this podcast still fits into my life right now. I share my love for that quiet stretch between Christmas and New Year's—a rare bit of downtime to slow down, read, and reflect—and how a short piece called "Float" from Mike Travisano's Refuge and Small Things really hit home as I was preparing to head back to school. January can feel heavy for a lot of educators and students, when the break is over and the finish line feels far away. Today's message is a simple reminder: when life feels overwhelming, and you can't see the shore, sometimes the best thing you can do is lean back, breathe, and remember—you float.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher Podcast! In today's episode, I'm talking about something I think we all wrestle with—our tendency to chase comfort and try to avoid anything that feels tough or unpredictable. The truth is, life's never going to be smooth sailing, and as Marcus Aurelius reminds us, what stands in the way can actually become the way. As teachers, we see this every day in those lessons that go sideways or those students who surprise us in the best possible ways. So let's dive into why leaning into challenges, instead of running from them, is where the real growth and joy happen.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher Podcast! This week, I'm coming to you from Cary, North Carolina, just a few days before the school year kicks off. I'm here with my two sons for a big baseball tournament—one competing on the field, the other supporting from the stands while still rehabbing an injury from months back. Watching one play and the other choose to show up for his brother—even though it wasn't easy—filled me with pride in ways I can't fully describe. Later that weekend, a conversation with my son reminded me of a powerful truth I've been reading in Inner Excellence by Jim Murphy: real strength and fulfillment come not from clinging to our own wants, but from serving and celebrating others. In this episode, I share that story, the lessons it sparked, and a reminder for all of us as teachers, parents, and leaders—that life gets richer when we step outside ourselves and pour into others.  

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher podcast! In today's episode, I talk about starting restorative practices at our school and the powerful reminder that it's not the big, flashy events that build relationships—it's the small, intentional moments we share with our students, our colleagues, and even ourselves. I connect this to the Stoic wisdom of Zeno, who taught that well-being is built little by little, and how that truth applies as I begin a new school year. From recovery and mobility, to better eating habits, to simply taking a few minutes each night to reflect, I share how focusing on the small, daily choices can shape us into the teachers, parents, and people we aspire to be.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher podcast! In this episode, I reflect on a question my son Gray asked me about what separates the most successful wrestlers I've coached from the rest. After more than 20 years in the wrestling room, I've had the privilege of coaching some incredible athletes—state medalists, champions, and even guys who went on to compete at the highest levels. At first, I thought the answer was simply about controlling the controllables, but the more I reflected, the more I realized it goes deeper. The best wrestlers weren't just obsessed with winning—they were driven by the love of competing, by becoming the best versions of themselves, and by bringing others along for the ride. And while that's easy for me to see in coaching, it's just as true in teaching: greatness doesn't come from the short-term wins, but from the dedication, consistency, and purpose we bring to the process every day.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher Podcast! In this episode, I talk with Bryon Carpenter—a fellow educator, podcaster and lifelong learner who's all about showing up, reflecting, and growing a little bit every day. We dive into why paying attention to your experiences matters, how consistency (even in small ways) can lead to big change, and how podcasting helps him process and share what he's learning. Bryon's not doing it for likes or followers—he's doing it to make a difference, and it's a message that'll definitely resonate.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today's episode comes to you from the beach—one of the few places where I consistently feel calm and grounded. But wouldn't it be great if we could find that kind of peace everywhere? Inspired by a powerful reply from Dr. Nate Fulton to a quote from Yung Pueblo, we're digging into what it means to truly "protect your peace." As teachers, parents, and people, it's so easy to let the energy of those around us dictate how we feel. But calm isn't something that just happens—it's a skill we have to develop and practice, especially in a world that constantly pulls at our energy. So today, let's talk about learning to stay grounded, owning our emotional space, and giving ourselves grace when we get it wrong—because we will, and that's okay.  

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today's episode is a special one—an honest, heartfelt, and wide-ranging conversation with Chris Nesi, the "EduPodfather" himself. Chris opens up about his journey in education and podcasting, the importance of showing up with integrity, and how being a great educator—or parent—is about letting others catch you in the act of doing good. We talk coaching, content creation, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why sometimes the bravest thing you can do is simply take the next step. If you've ever been hesitant to start something new or wondered if you're doing enough, this episode will speak directly to you.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher Podcast! In this episode, we look at the story of General Dan Sickles at Gettysburg—a leader who made a bold move that helped slow down the enemy, but came at a huge cost to his own men. Was it brave or reckless? We dig into that question and connect it to a powerful message from Admiral William McRaven's book The Wisdom of the Bullfrog. As teachers, we know we can't just play it safe all the time. We need to try new things and take smart risks—but always with care, knowing our students are counting on us. Let's talk about what it means to be bold, thoughtful, and growing right alongside our students.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher podcast! I'm beyond excited to share this episode with you—it's the first-ever interview on the show! After over a year of planning, I finally sat down with none other than Jake Miller of Educational Duct Tape. We talk about everything from shared friendships and classroom strategies to cellphones and what keeps us inspired. Fair warning: I accidentally recorded with my laptop mic—but hey, you're really here for Jake anyway!

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher Podcast! Last week, we talked about Admiral William McRaven's advice to take things one step at a time—and this week, we're building on that by asking an important question: what are we actually growing toward? Growth without direction isn't just unproductive—it can be harmful. In this episode, I break down Dr. Joe Dispenza's three components to excellence that he shared on an episode of Tom Bilyeau's Impact Theory Podcast—confidence, accountability, and vision—and explore how each one can help us move forward with purpose. Whether you're in the classroom or just trying to be a little better every day, this episode will give you simple, powerful steps to grow in the right direction.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher podcast! In this episode, I share a powerful lesson from Admiral William McRaven's Navy SEAL training that can transform how we handle the tough days in teaching. When my son faced a challenging injury, I found myself caught up in the anxiety of "what if" thinking - something we've all experienced as educators when facing difficult students, overwhelming workloads, or career challenges. Drawing from McRaven's story about surviving Hell Week by focusing on "one evolution at a time," I explore how we can apply this mindset both in helping our struggling students break down big challenges into manageable pieces, and in our own teaching lives when everything feels impossible. Whether you're dealing with a rough class period or questioning your entire career, this episode reminds us that we don't have to solve everything at once - just focus on what's right in front of you and keep moving forward, one step at a time.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! I'm so glad you're here. In today's episode, we're diving into the power of language in a conversation I'm calling "Words Are Important." This topic was sparked by a recent training I attended on Restorative Practices, where we spent a lot of time reflecting on how the words we choose can either build connection or create distance. Around the same time, I started reading Don't Believe Everything You Think by Joseph Nguyen, and it really drove the point home—our inner dialogue and the language we use with ourselves matters just as much as what we say to others. So today, we're exploring how intentional language can transform not just our classrooms, but our everyday lives. Let's get into it!

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! This week's episode is a real-life reflection on those long, draining May days when exhaustion runs deeper than just being tired—it comes from how we react to the daily challenges of teaching. I share a recent moment when I found myself overwhelmed by student behavior and how a simple line from a meditation—"respond, rather than react"—helped reframe my thinking. It's easy to fall into old patterns and respond out of habit, but taking a pause to check in with how we really feel can lead to more thoughtful, compassionate responses. With a little help from the poet Yung Pueblo and a conversation with a wise colleague, I was reminded of what truly matters. Tune in for a candid look at the inner work that helps us grow as educators—and humans.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! You know that person who always has the best story, knows the best restaurant, and never misses a chance to prove they know more than you? Yeah... don't be that person. In this episode, we're digging into the power of intellectual humility—why admitting "I don't know" can be one of the smartest things you do as an educator. Inspired by a sharp quote from Charlie Munger and grounded in the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius, we'll explore how curiosity, not certainty, leads to growth. Whether you're a new teacher still trying to find your footing or a veteran who's been around the block, this is your reminder that the best educators are lifelong learners. So today, let's talk less, listen more, and make room for growth—because the smartest person in the room might just be the room itself.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! In this episode, I'm diving into my winding journey with journaling—from Ryan Holiday's Daily Stoic Journal to blank Moleskines and even a couple rounds with Permission to Pause. While I've loved parts of each, I often find myself craving something new. That's when I stumbled upon a simple, effective journaling protocol shared by Andrew Huberman. Originally designed to support recovery, it's actually perfect for anyone looking to build positive habits and find a little more balance. I'll walk you through how it works, what I've learned from using it, and how it's helped me stay grounded—even on chaotic mornings when the squirrels are out in full force. If you've ever felt stuck with your journaling or just want a new way to reflect, this one's for you.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today, I want to be honest about something I think a lot of us struggle with—this constant drive to grow, improve, and be "better." It sounds noble, right? But if you're anything like me, that mindset can sometimes become exhausting. I've always been an all-in kind of person—wrestling taught me to push hard, and teaching just reinforced it. But recently, a conversation with a psychologist friend reminded me of something important: "Try to be better, don't try to be perfect… and sometimes, just be." That hit me. In this episode, I'll share reflections from that chat, plus insights from Laird Hamilton's story in Liferider and Srikumar Rao's book Modern Wisdom, Ancient Roots. It's a reminder that maybe we don't always need to chase the next level—maybe we just need to show up, be present, and appreciate the amazing people we already are.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today's episode starts with a confession—I used to hate lunch duty. Even worse, I was asked to help clean up afterward, and I'll admit it: I was kind of a jerk about it. I was annoyed, even angry, and felt like it was beneath me. But here's the thing—what began as a begrudging task has become one of my favorite parts of the day. There's something unexpectedly cathartic about it: walking around, chatting with kids, modeling what it means to pitch in and do what needs to be done, no matter your role. That mindset shift is exactly what we're talking about today, inspired by a Daily Stoic podcast episode from Ryan Holiday titled "Greatness is Up to You?" We'll unpack how our character is revealed not in grand gestures, but in how we show up for the small, unseen, or unglamorous tasks. As Ryan and the Stoics remind us, it's not about the job itself—it's about the attitude we bring to it. Let's talk about how that idea can transform the way we teach, lead, and live.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Lately, the weather here in southeastern Pennsylvania  has been just about perfect, and I've been making a point to enjoy it—with no earbuds, no distractions, just fresh air. It's been good for the soul, but it also got me thinking about how easy it is to let external things—like the weather, a tough class, or a flopped lesson—dictate our mood. In this episode, I'm drawing inspiration from Jay Shetty and the classic story of "Good thing, bad thing, who knows?" We'll talk about how reframing events, embracing the power of the pause, and letting go of our need to control outcomes can help us find peace and purpose in the unpredictable rhythm of teaching.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today, I'm reflecting on how my relationship with time has changed—from lingering in hallways with friends to rushing through the day just to get home. Inspired by Oliver Burkeman's Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, I explore the idea that time is a network good—something that gains value when shared with others. In my effort to be productive, I had unintentionally cut myself off from the connection and joy that come from community. This episode is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful use of our time as teachers is simply spending it together.

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher Podcast! In this episode, I'm sharing a moment from right before spring break when I had a big plan for a Socratic Seminar… and then totally bailed on it. But here's the thing—I've got an awesome grade-level team, and one of our newer members keeps pushing us to try new things, which got me thinking. I want my students to talk. I like the noise. I want them talking about social studies and thinking out loud together. But somewhere along the way, I let "keeping them on task" win out over giving them space to actually discuss. I'm diving into some great ideas from Catlin Tucker and Katie Novak's book The Shift to Student-Led: Reimagining Classroom Workflows with UDL & Blended Learning,  and talking about why it's okay to step back and let students lead the conversation—even if it gets a little messy. Because let's be honest: teaching is exhausting, and we don't need to be the ones doing all the talking all the time.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Last time, we talked about how important it is to surround yourself with the right people—but today, I want to flip that around a little. What about when you feel like the one bringing the bad vibes? I'm pulling from James Sturtevant's book Teaching in Magenta: 100 Pathways to Joy and Well-Being for You and Your Students  to dive into this idea. I'll read a piece straight from the book and share the part that really stuck with me. The truth is, we all have tough days where everything feels heavy, and that's completely normal. So today's all about giving yourself—and the people around you—a little more grace when things get tough.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! In today's episode, I share a powerful reminder of why teaching is such a gift: getting to witness our students grow into the people they're meant to be—and sometimes, if we're lucky, cheering them on from the sidelines long after they leave our classrooms. I recently had the chance to watch one of my former students, Jordan Dissin, now a professional baseball player, catch for the Reading Fightin Phils. But what truly inspired me wasn't just his performance on the field—it was his character off of it. Watching him connect with young fans, and having my own sons see that moment, reminded me of the profound impact our role models can have. We'll explore how this ties into Austin Kleon's idea that we are "a mashup of what we let into our lives," and reflect on what it means for us as educators to be intentional about the influences we allow into our own lives and classrooms.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! In today's episode, we're diving into an exciting and practical way to bring AI into your classroom—by turning it into a powerful, personalized tutor for your students. Inspired by a recent blog post from Edutopia, I'll walk you through an assignment I'm trying with my own students that encourages them to use AI to review and reinforce classroom content on their own time. Whether you're brand new to AI tools or already experimenting, this simple yet effective strategy could be a game-changer for student learning. Please tune in and consider giving it a shot in your own classroom!

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! In this episode, "Be Mindful of Your Memories," we take a deep dive into how nostalgia and memory shape not only our emotions but our present-day realities, especially as educators. Sparked by everything from Rex Manning Day to some late-90s punk rock and a great Rich Roll conversation with memory expert Charan Ranganath, I've been reflecting on how our memories aren't perfect snapshots—they're more like paintings, shaped and reshaped by time and feeling. We explore how this impacts the way we view our students, our work, and even ourselves. You'll hear insights from Dr. Joe Dispenza and The Connection podcast about how our emotional state, often rooted in memory, can distort our current perceptions and reactions. Whether it's longing for the "good old days" or carrying identity and emotion from seasons past, this episode is a reminder to pause, breathe, and stay grounded in what's real, not just what we remember.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today's episode is inspired by a powerful post from educator and podcaster Trevor Muir called "The Participation Myth." It hit me hard—in the best way—because it's all about shifting our focus as teachers from outcomes we can't control to the efforts we can. So often, we judge our lessons and even our worth as educators by how engaged every single student seems in the moment. But the truth is, expecting 100% participation all the time is not only unrealistic—it's a fast track to burnout and imposter syndrome. Let's talk about what it means to teach with purpose, give our best, and let go of the rest.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today's episode was planned on a pretty special day—my oldest son turned 15, which has me feeling all the things. It's true what they say: "time flies," but you never really get it until you're watching your own kid grow up in the blink of an eye. And as I look around and realize this school year is three-quarters over—and that I'm wrapping up my 21st year in the classroom (seriously, what?!)—I've been thinking a lot about time, how we spend it, and how little of it we actually control. Inspired by the early chapters of Mel Robbins' new book The Let Them Theory, I want to share a powerful mindset shift that's already changing how I think about my time and energy. It's all about letting go—letting people think what they think, do what they do, and freeing ourselves from the exhausting habit of trying to manage the unmanageable. Because when we stop wasting energy on things outside of our control, we finally get to focus on what really matters. Let's talk about reclaiming your time, your energy, and your peace.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! This past week was one of those where I was just loving life—engaging with students, enjoying the creative process of planning (especially with AI), and taking time off for wrestling. It's easy to feel happy when things are going well, but the real challenge is learning to cultivate that same joy regardless of circumstances. Today's message, inspired by James Oppenheim's quote, "The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise grows it under his feet," reminds us to stop chasing happiness in future events and instead find contentment in the present. The Stoics echo this wisdom, with Marcus Aurelius reminding us that true peace comes from within, not from external retreats. This weekend gave me amazing moments with family and wrestling, but it also tested my ability to remain present—whether comforting my son after a tough loss, overcoming nerves in a new volunteer role, or resisting the urge to let to-do lists steal my Sunday joy. So today, let's reflect on where we're placing our happiness—are we waiting for it, or are we growing it right where we stand?

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today, we're tackling a topic that many of us wrestle with—what happens when you don't always love your job? As someone who's spent decades immersed in wrestling, I know firsthand how identity can be tied to our work, and how challenging it can be when that work shifts or disappears. Inspired by a recent episode of The Connection with Marty Moss-Coane, we'll dive into why it's okay to not always love your job, how unrealistic expectations can create unnecessary stress, and what we can do to regulate our emotions when work feels overwhelming. From setting psychological boundaries to avoiding the stress contagion, this episode is all about learning to navigate the ups and downs of work without letting it define us.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today, we're diving into a powerful question: Will you meet your goals this year? Inspired by a recent Compete Every Day episode on the biggest mistakes people make when setting goals, we'll explore why keeping your goals to yourself might actually help you succeed, how an accountability system can keep you on track, and the role of energy, faith, and action in shaping your future. We'll break down a compelling quote from Rachel Hollis about how our focus creates our future and connect it to insights from Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist, which suggests that when we truly desire something, the universe conspires to help us. Through the lens of effort, energy, risk-taking, and trust, we'll discuss how competing daily sets you up for success and how faith in the process keeps you moving forward. Let's get inspired to take bold action and make 2025 our best year yet!

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today's episode is all about the power of doing the little things well and how that philosophy connects to restorative practices in our schools. I'm part of a restorative practices committee at my school and will soon begin training to become a trainer myself—something I'm both excited and humbled by. Honestly, I wasn't always on board with this approach. Skeptical at first, I joined the initiative out of a mix of curiosity and a desire to contribute rather than criticize. What I've learned is that restorative practices are fundamentally about building and maintaining relationships with students, and that simplicity is key. This week, a committee meeting and a moment of doubt reminded me how important it is to focus on the small, consistent actions that build trust, understanding, and connection. Inspired by Emmanuel Acho's reminder that "little things done well make big things happen," we'll discuss how paying attention to the small, intentional steps can transform not just our classrooms, but our lives. Let's dive in!

Welcome to the Inspired Teacher podcast! In this episode, we delve into the timeless wisdom of Seneca, exploring his profound understanding of philosophy as the art of learning how to be a friend to yourself. As educators, we often pour our hearts and souls into nurturing our students, but it's equally essential to extend that same kindness and compassion inward. Join me as I reflect on the importance of self-friendship and self-care in our teaching journeys, sharing practical insights and uplifting stories that remind us to prioritize our well-being while inspiring others.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Every year, my pre-season wrestling trip is a chance to recharge and reflect, and this year's visit to Ocean City, NJ, was no exception. From a thoughtful gift card from a student to battling nasty black bugs and relentless beeping, it wasn't all smooth sailing—but as we left, the ocean reminded me of its timeless lesson: it continues its work, no matter what. Today, I'm sharing why I love the beach—the nostalgia, joy, and grounding it provides—and how Mary Oliver's poem I Go Down to the Shore inspired me to reflect on the importance of perspective. Just as the ocean waves keep rolling, we all have work to do, even when life feels overwhelming. Whether you're dealing with challenges or celebrating victories, the key is finding meaning in the process—"chop wood, carry water." Let's dive into this calming yet powerful reminder to stay grounded, focused, and present in every moment.

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Lately, I've been feeling a shift—a sense of returning to something better than just surviving in the classroom. Between blue-sky moments and inspiring ideas from podcasts like Check This Out and House of EdTech, I'm rounding the corner from simply managing post-COVID challenges to growing and thriving as an educator. Today's episode is all about progress—how it fuels our happiness and purpose. Inspired by Tom Bilyeu's Impact Theory, we'll explore why progress is a pillar of fulfillment, why it's hardwired into us as humans, and why, as teachers, we need to push past comfort to continue growing. As wrestling coach Nelson Stratton once said, "You either get better or worse, but you never stay the same." Growth isn't just about becoming better educators—it's about living a purposeful life that serves both ourselves and others. Let's talk about how to embrace the hard work of progress and use it to reignite our passion for teaching!

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! In our last episode, we explored Michael Gervais' idea of being at peace with who you are while still striving for growth, and today, I want to dive even deeper into that journey. This week, I faced two personal challenges that reminded me just how far I have to go: being judgmental and constantly comparing expectations to reality. Both came to the forefront during our whirlwind three-day parent-teacher conference schedule, where my stress amplified these habits. I'll share how Epictetus' wisdom from The Enchiridion—"Wish for things to happen as they do, and you will have a tranquil flow of life"—helped me reframe these moments. We'll explore why comparison and control can lead us astray, how I tried to navigate my disrupted routines, and what we can all learn about rolling with life's unpredictability. Let's get inspired together to embrace what is, rather than what we wish it to be!

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! In today's episode, we dive into a powerful idea that struck me while listening to Dr. Michael Gervais on a recent podcast while blowing leaves! Dr. Mike spoke about the discipline it takes to prioritize progress and growth over outcomes, a concept that feels especially relevant in the fast-paced world of education. He also highlighted the importance of not wrapping your identity in what you do, a reminder that staying grounded in your purpose allows you to embrace growth with clarity and resilience. Together, these ideas offer a transformative perspective on how we approach our roles as educators and lifelong learners. Let's explore how these insights can fuel our passion and purpose in teaching!

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today's episode was sparked by a heartfelt conversation I had with my son about his goals in wrestling. His focus and determination reminded me of a powerful chapter from The Wisdom of the Bullfrog: Leadership Made Simple (But Not Easy) by Admiral William H. McRaven. In this episode, we'll dive into the importance of having goals and a pathway to achieving them, and not just hope.  

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! In today's episode, we're diving into the timeless wisdom of Epictetus as shared in Chapter 17 of his Enchiridion. Building on our conversation from the last episode, we're focusing on a fundamental Stoic truth: we are not in control of events, but we are in control of how we respond to them and just how liberating this can be. 

Welcome to The Inspired Teacher Podcast! Today's episode was sparked by a recent conversation on Dr. Michael Gervais' *Finding Mastery* podcast, where he interviewed Deryck Whibley, lead singer of Sum 41. Whibley shared a powerful reminder that "you can't control the outcome, but you can control the output." This line got me thinking deeply about the concepts in *Extreme Balance*, a book that emphasizes balancing results with the process it takes to get there. In this episode, we'll explore how focusing on our own "output" can bring greater satisfaction and success, even when the final outcome feels beyond our reach.