EPISODE · Aug 11, 2025 · 49 MIN
Thoroughness and Charm: Classroom Management with Mandi Gerth
from The University of Dallas Classical Education Podcast
SummaryIn this conversation, Shannon Valenzuela interviews Mandi Gerth, the author of the new book Thoroughness & Charm: Cultivating the Habits of a Classical Classroom. They explore the principles of classical education, focusing on the importance of classroom management, the role of joy and order in learning, and the integration of the imagination and the intellect. They discuss how embodiment and enculturation can enhance the learning experience and delve into the significance of liturgy in the classroom, the concept of ordered loves, and the teacher's role as a lifelong learner. The discussion also touches on insights from Machiavelli regarding classroom management and the importance of establishing authority while fostering a love for learning.Resources & Links:Mandi's Website: https://mrsgerthteaches.com/Thoroughness and Charm - CiRCE InstituteTopics Covered:Embodiment and enculturation in classical educationClassroom managementThe formation of the intellect, the imagination, and the heartThe importance of joy and order in educationClassroom liturgies and catechismsGuest:Mandi Gerth is a teacher and classical education consultant who lives in Dallas, Texas. She currently serves as the Administrative Director of the Cowan Center at the University of Dallas. She holds a master of humanities degree from the University of Dallas with a concentration in classical education. Her first book, Thoroughness & Charm is now available from CiRCE Press. You can find Mandi on LinkedIn, Substack, and Instagram (@mrsgerthteaches). Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:08 Introduction to Mandi and her work04:20 Enculturation and the Role of Tradition05:28 Liturgical Classroom Practices11:59 Ordered Loves and Their Significance in Education22:53 Reconnecting with the Joy of Teaching26:34 The Role of Lifelong Learning in Teaching30:24 Critical Thinking and Student Engagement34:39 Classroom Management Insights from Machiavelli38:33 Balancing Order and Joy in the ClassroomUD LinksClassical Education Master’s Program at the University of Dallas: udallas.edu/classical-edSt. Ambrose Center Professional Development for Teachers and Administrators: https://k12classical.udallas.edu/Books Mentioned in Today's EpisodeCharles Taylor, Modern Social Imaginaries Karen Swallow Prior, Evangelical Imagination Joshua Gibbs, Something They Will Not Forget David Hicks, Norms & Nobility Donald Cowan, Unbinding PrometheusSupport the showIf you enjoyed the show, please leave a rating and review — it helps others find us!Support the showIf you enjoyed the show, please leave a rating and review — it helps others find us!
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Thoroughness and Charm: Classroom Management with Mandi Gerth
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