Coffee and Whiteboard Markers Podcast

Teaching is full of tricky moments that no university course fully prepares you for.In this episode we unpack some of the most common difficult situations teachers face and how we personally try to handle them in real classrooms.We discuss:Students refusing to workConstant low-level disruptionDefiant behaviour and pushbackEmotional student blow-upsDifficult parent interactionsWhat to do when lessons completely fall apartManaging your emotions under pressureHolding boundaries without damaging relationshipsThe importance of calm consistencyThis is not about pretending to be perfect teachers. It’s an honest conversation about the realities of teaching, the mistakes we’ve made, and the strategies that have helped us survive and improve over time.If you’ve ever walked out of a lesson thinking, “What just happened?” — this episode is for you.Follow Coffee and Whiteboard Markers:📩 Substack Newsletter: https://coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers.substack.com▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkers📸 Instagram: @coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers📘 Facebook: Coffee and Whiteboard MarkersIf this episode resonated with you:⭐ Follow the podcast⭐ Leave a review⭐ Share this episode with another teacher who needs to hear it

The emotional labour of teaching is rarely talked about openly, but every teacher feels it.In this episode we unpack the hidden weight teachers carry every day: managing behaviour while staying calm, supporting students through trauma, absorbing constant emotional pressure, and still being expected to show up positively every lesson.We talk honestly about:Why teaching can feel emotionally exhaustingThe pressure of “holding it together”Compassion fatigue and burnoutThe emotional load teachers take home after the bellHow boundaries and routines can protect your wellbeingIf you’ve ever finished a school day mentally drained and wondered why you’re so exhausted, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.Follow Coffee and Whiteboard Markers:📩 Substack Newsletter: https://coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers.substack.com▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkers📸 Instagram: @coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers📘 Facebook: Coffee and Whiteboard MarkersIf this episode resonated with you:⭐ Follow the podcast⭐ Leave a review⭐ Share this episode with another teacher who needs to hear it Love your work legends and many thanks for stopping by!

Years from now, your students won’t remember most of the lessons you taught, but they will remember how you made them feel.In this episode, we unpack what truly sticks with students long after they leave the classroom. From the small moments of encouragement to the way we respond under pressure, we explore the lasting impact teachers have beyond content, curriculum, and assessment.In this episode, we discuss:Why students remember experiences more than informationThe power of respect, consistency, and emotional safetyThe small, everyday interactions that leave a lasting impressionWhat this means for how we approach teaching day-to-dayThis is a reflective episode that shifts the focus from what we teach to how we show up—and why that matters more than we often realise.If this episode resonated with you, follow the podcast on Spotify and share it with a colleague who might need the reminder.Like always we appreciate you being here!

In every school, there are practices that exist simply because “that’s how it’s always been done.” But in today’s classrooms, it’s worth asking: what still works and what are we holding onto that’s no longer serving students or teachers?In this episode, we take a balanced look at old school teaching practices, the routines, systems, and habits that have stood the test of time, and the ones that may need to be rethought or let go.We explore:Outdated practices that may be doing more harm than goodTimeless strategies that still build strong classroomsThe difference between structure and rigidityHow to update practices without losing what makes teaching effectivePractical ways to reflect on what’s worth keeping in your own classroomThis episode isn’t about throwing everything out—it’s about teaching with intention, not just tradition.☕ Connect with Coffee & Whiteboard Markers▶️ YouTube: Coffee & Whiteboard Markers📷 Instagram: @CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkers📘 Facebook: Coffee & Whiteboard Markers📩 Newsletter (Substack): https://coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers.substack.comIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast on Spotify and share it with a colleague who might enjoy the conversation.Thanks for listening, and thank you for what you do!

Classrooms today are more complex than ever. Many students arrive at school carrying stress, uncertainty, and experiences that affect how they learn, behave, and connect with others. In this episode, we explore trauma-informed practices in teaching and how small shifts in our approach can make a big difference for both students and teachers.We discuss how trauma can show up in the classroom, why behaviour is often a form of communication, and practical ways teachers can respond with calm, consistency, and clarity. From the language we use, to the importance of predictable routines and giving students appropriate choices, this episode focuses on strategies that help create safer and more supportive learning environments.In this episode, we explore:What trauma-informed teaching actually means (and what it doesn’t)How trauma can influence behaviour and engagement in the classroomThe role of language, predictability, and choice in helping students feel safePractical strategies teachers can use without adding more to their workload☕ Connect with Coffee & Whiteboard Markers▶️ YouTube: Coffee & Whiteboard Markers📷 Instagram: @CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkers📘 Facebook: Coffee & Whiteboard Markers📩 Newsletter (Substack): Coffee & Whiteboard MarkersIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast on Spotify and share it with a colleague who might find it helpful. Your support helps more teachers access practical ideas and honest conversations about the realities of teaching.

Teaching is one of the most meaningful professions there is, but it’s also one of the easiest to burn out in if we’re not careful. In this episode, we explore what it really means to build a sustainable career in teaching.From setting healthy boundaries and letting go of perfectionism to protecting your time and redefining success in the classroom, we unpack practical ways teachers can stay effective, motivated, and healthy over the long term.In this episode, we discuss:Why do so many teachers burn out early in their careersThe hidden habits that quietly make teaching unsustainableBoundaries that protect your energy without lowering your standardsHow to shift from “surviving the term” to building a career that lastsThe mindset shifts that help teachers stay in the profession for the long runThis episode is a reminder that great teachers don’t need to sacrifice themselves to make a difference.☕ Connect with Coffee & Whiteboard Markers▶️ YouTube: Coffee & Whiteboard Markers📷 Instagram: @CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkers📘 Facebook: Coffee & Whiteboard Markers📩 Newsletter (Substack): Coffee & Whiteboard MarkersIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast on Spotify and share it with a colleague who might benefit from the conversation. Your support helps more teachers find practical strategies and encouragement for the realities of teaching.

Early career teacher retention isn’t just a statistic  it’s a warning sign.In this episode, we unpack why so many new teachers are walking away within their first five years. Is it burnout? Lack of support? Unrealistic expectations? Staffroom culture? Or something deeper within the system?More importantly, we talk about what schools, leaders, and experienced teachers can actually do to change it.This isn’t about blame — it’s about building environments where early career teachers feel supported, capable, and valued.If you’re a new teacher feeling overwhelmed, or a leader wanting to do better, this episode is for you.🔗 Connect with Coffee and Whiteboard Markers📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers📰 Newsletter (Substack): https://coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers.substack.com🎙️ Podcast on Spotify: https://spotify.com/show/coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers👍 If this episode resonated, please follow, rate, and share it with a colleague.Because keeping great teachers in the profession starts with honest conversations.

Why do classrooms feel harder than ever?In this episode, we unpack a question that so many teachers are asking right now: Has student behaviour changed — and why does teaching feel more challenging than it used to?From rising disengagement and emotional dysregulation to shifting expectations on schools and teachers, this video explores the new classroom reality many educators are facing in 2025.In this discussion, you’ll hear about:Why behaviour is escalating in many classroomsWhat’s happening beneath the surface for studentsThe pressure teachers are carrying more than everPractical, realistic strategies that actually helpHow to respond with calm authority, boundaries, and consistencyThis is an honest conversation — and a reminder that you’re not alone in feeling this.Connect with Coffee & Whiteboard Markers📩 Newsletter (Substack):https://coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers.substack.com📷 Instagram: @CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkers📘 Facebook: Coffee & Whiteboard Markers🎧 Spotify Podcast: Coffee & Whiteboard Markers▶️ YouTube: Coffee & Whiteboard MarkersIf this video resonated with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with a colleague who might need the reminder that teaching is harder right now — but support and strategies exist.Thanks for being here, and thank you for what you do.

In teaching, “going the extra mile” is often celebrated — but what happens when that extra mile quietly becomes the expectation? In this episode, we unpack the real cost of overdoing it in education: the burnout, the guilt, the resentment, and the slow erosion of our personal lives that no one warns us about.We dive into:Why teachers feel pressured to always say “yes”The hidden emotional and physical toll of overworkingHow constant self-sacrifice normalises an unsustainable workloadWhat happens to your relationships, wellbeing, and joy when teaching becomes your whole identityPractical steps to build boundaries and teach sustainably (without guilt)This episode is a reminder that you don’t need to be a superhero — you just need to be human. And your students need the version of you that has energy, balance, and longevity.☕ If this episode resonated, please like and follow the podcast on Spotify.📱 Follow along on social media: @CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkers▶️ Subscribe on YouTube for weekly teaching videos and practical tools: Coffee & Whiteboard Markers

Every teacher has those moments — the lessons that crashed, the behaviour calls that backfired, the emails we wish we’d rewritten, and the days we walked out thinking, “Well… that didn’t go to plan.”In this episode, we dive into our biggest teaching fails from across our careers. Not to relive the embarrassment, but to unpack the lessons, the growth, and the surprising moments of clarity those fails gave us.We explore:The classroom moments that humbled usBehaviour management moves that went wrong (and what we learned)Planning mistakes we’ll never make againHow failure shaped us into better, more resilient teachersWhy owning your mistakes makes you a stronger educatorIt’s honest, funny, and deeply relatable — a reminder that even the most experienced teachers mess up, reset, and keep going.☕ If you enjoyed this episode, please like and follow the podcast on Spotify.📱 Follow the journey on social media: @CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkers▶️ Subscribe to the YouTube channel for new videos every week: Coffee & Whiteboard Markers

Some lessons can’t be found in a syllabus, a PD session, or a university textbook — they come from the classroom itself. In this episode, we dive into the real, human lessons teaching has given us: the moments, mistakes, surprises, and shifts in perspective that only experience can teach.We unpack:How teaching builds patience in ways theory never mentionsWhy relationships matter more than routinesThe emotional resilience that comes from showing up every dayWhat students unknowingly teach us about ourselvesHow teaching changes the way we think, lead, and liveThis is an episode full of honesty and reflection — a reminder that teaching grows us just as much as we grow our students.☕ If you enjoyed this episode, please like or follow the podcast on Spotify.📱 Follow along on social media: @CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkers

Student misbehaviour can feel like a personal attack — even when we know, logically, it’s usually not about us at all. In this episode, we unpack why certain behaviours sting, how to emotionally distance yourself without disengaging, and what it really means to respond as the calm adult in the room.We explore:Why student behaviour feels personal (and why it usually isn’t)What’s really going on beneath the surface for studentsHow to stay steady instead of reactivePractical strategies for separating your identity from their behaviourHow emotional detachment actually strengthens classroom relationshipsTeaching is deeply human work — and sometimes the hardest part is remembering that misbehaviour is communication, not a reflection of your worth.☕ If you enjoyed this episode, please like or follow the podcast on Spotify.📱 Follow along on social media: @CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkers

Teaching doesn’t just shape students—it shapes us.In this episode, we reflect on how the classroom has changed the way we see ourselves as people, parents, and professionals.From learning patience and empathy to finding strength in chaos, we explore the deep personal lessons that come from years in education. These are the things no textbook or PD session could ever teach you—the moments that stay with you long after the bell rings.You’ll hear reflections on:How teaching changes your perspective on people, purpose, and growth.The emotional resilience that only comes from leading a classroom.Why teaching often reveals who you really are.This one’s honest, personal, and real—a reminder that teaching shapes far more than lessons; it shapes lives.☕ Tune in, reflect, and share this episode with a colleague who’s been shaped by the classroom too.

In a world that’s changing faster than ever—AI, social media, shifting values, and constant reform—one thing remains: the impact of a great teacher.In this episode, we explore why teaching still matters deeply in 2025, even when the profession feels undervalued and under pressure.

We’ve all been there—the class that just won’t settle, the group where every lesson feels like a battle, the moment when trust between you and your students feels like it’s slipped away. In this episode, we unpack what really happens when a class becomes disruptive and, more importantly, how you can rebuild trust step by step.From understanding what went wrong, to pressing the reset button, to focusing on consistency and relationships over rules, this episode offers practical strategies grounded in patience and persistence. You’ll walk away with tools to not only regain control, but also to create a classroom culture that feels safe, respectful, and connected.Trust can be repaired. Disruption doesn’t have to define your teaching story. Join me as we explore how to turn a challenging class into an opportunity for growth—for you and your students.👉 If this episode resonates with you, share it with a fellow teacher and tag Coffee & Whiteboard Markers on Instagram or Facebook. Let’s remind each other: trust is always worth rebuilding.

Teaching is what we do — but it’s not who we are. In this episode, we unpack why it’s so easy for teachers to tie their identity to the classroom, the cost of living like the job defines you, and the freedom that comes when you realise your worth isn’t measured in lessons, marking, or leadership titles.💬 Share this with a colleague who needs the reminder, and tag me on Instagram @coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers — let’s talk about building identities bigger than our job titles.

Seventeen years in the classroom isn’t just about teaching students — it’s about learning who you are, what matters, and how to survive the chaos with your heart still intact. In this episode, I share the biggest lessons teaching has taught me about resilience, boundaries, humour, and the reality of showing up every day for young people.💬 Share the lessons you’ve learned with me on Instagram @coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers — I’d love to feature them in a future episode.

Teaching can feel overwhelming — and sometimes it sneaks up on you before you even realise it. In this episode, we break down how to spot the early signs of overwhelm, the traps teachers fall into when they try to just “push through,” and what you can do instead to reset and protect your energy.From snapping at small things to over-scheduling yourself into exhaustion, this is a real talk reminder that you can’t outrun overwhelm — but you can pause, breathe, and take small steps that make a big difference.💬 If this resonates, share it with a teacher friend or tag me on Instagram @coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers — we’re in this together.

Some days, just showing up for class feels like a win. In this episode, we get honest about what it’s like to teach when your mental health is under strain. I’ll talk about the hidden pressure to keep the “teacher mask” on, the surprising lessons I’ve learned from teaching through tough seasons, and practical, gentle strategies to help you get through the day without burning out.If you’ve ever found yourself running on empty but still wanting to make a difference, you’re not alone.💬 Share your thoughts or tips with me on Instagram @coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers — let’s keep the conversation going.

Let’s talk about the little habits that make a big difference. From simplifying planning to managing the emotional load, these are the daily routines and mindset shifts that helped me feel less overwhelmed and more in control. These aren’t Pinterest-perfect — they’re practical, real, and teacher-tested.💬 Got a teaching habit that changed your life? Tag me on Social Media @coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers and let’s share the load.

 Everyone talks about pedagogy, data, and classroom management — but no one talks enough about boundaries. In this episode, we unpack why boundaries might be the most powerful (and underrated) teaching tool you have. Whether it’s emotional, time-based, or digital — setting healthy limits helps you show up as the teacher and human you want to be.Check us out on Social Media @Coffee and Whiteboard Markers. Song in intro "Loudmouth" By Artist Mantra. 

Teaching isn’t just a job — it’s a mirror. In this episode, I unpack the surprising, challenging, and humbling lessons teaching has taught me about who I am. From patience and boundaries to self-worth and resilience, this is a real talk reflection for anyone who’s grown through the chaos of the classroom.💬 If this hits home, tag me on social media @coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers and share the lesson teaching has taught you.Song in introduction: "Loudmouth" by aritist Mantra. 

There’s the marking, the meetings, the planning — and then there’s the guilt. The stuff we carry silently: for not doing enough, for leaving early, for setting boundaries. In this episode, we unpack the invisible emotional backpack teachers wear every day — and how to start letting go of what was never ours to carry.💬 Tag @coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers on social media and tell me what you’re ready to take out of your backpack.Song in the introduction: "Loudmouth" - By Artist Mantra. 

Teachers everywhere are talking about the 4-day teaching week — but what actually happens when you squeeze 5 days’ worth of work into 4? In this episode, we explore the pros, the cons, and the stuff no one’s telling you. If you’ve ever fantasised about a long weekend, this one’s for you.Like always legends thankyou for listening! A reminder that we are up on social media now @ Coffee and Whiteboard Markers. If you can like/subsribe/rate on any or all of the platforms it would be much appreciated. Introduction song: "Loudmouth" by artist Mantra

Teaching comes with an emotional weight that’s often invisible but deeply felt. From the constant mental load to the quiet moments of doubt and overwhelm, this episode dives into what it really means to carry the emotional side of the job — and how to lighten the load without losing your passion.If this episode resonates, share it with a teacher friend or tag on Socials @coffeeandwhiteboardmarkers — let’s keep the conversation going.Song in introduction 'Loudmouth' by Mantra. 

In this episode, I dive into the complex relationship between teaching and mental health. Educators face unique challenges—balancing heavy workloads, emotional demands, and often limited resources—all of which can take a toll on their mental well-being. I explore the pressures teachers face both inside and outside the classroom, discuss signs of burnout, and share practical strategies for maintaining mental health in the profession. Whether you're a teacher, a school leader, or simply interested in the well-being of educators, this episode offers valuable insights and real-world perspectives on supporting mental health in education.Note: Legends! We are now on social media. Coffee and Whiteboard Markers are on all Social media. If you can like and subscribe, that would be incredible! Song in introduction: Loudmouth by Artisit Mantra

In this episode, I take a look at gamification in education.Now, if you’re picturing students glued to video games or running around in chaos — hold that thought. Gamification isn’t about turning your classroom into an arcade. It’s about leveraging the mechanics that make games so compelling— things like points, levels, challenges, rewards and applying them to the learning process.Like always thanks for listening!Song in introduction: Loudmouth by artist Mantra. 

A productive classroom environment isn't just about silence or control—it's about creating a space where students feel safe, motivated, and empowered to learn. In this episode, I explore what it takes to create such an environment for your students. Song in introduction: Loudmouth by Mantra. 

This episode focuses on mentorship in education. We will examine that journey, why it matters, and how experienced teachers can support their peers without adding more to their full plates. Like always, thanks for listening! Intro song: Loudmouth by Mantra.

I am not going to lie. I have debated this for the last few years! In this episode, I investigate whether AI will replace teachers within the next 10 years. Song in introduction: Loudmouth - Artist = Mantra SOCIAL MEDIA UP AND RUNNING NOW!!!YouTube: @CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkersInstagram: CoffeeandWhiteboardmarkersFacebook: Coffee and White Board Markers. Like always, thanks for your support!!

In this episode, I focus on how teachers educate and truly make a difference in the classroom for their students.Song in introduction: Loudmouth - Artist = Mantra SOCIAL MEDIA UP AND RUNNING NOW!!!http://www.youtube.com/@CoffeeandWhiteboardMarkers Instagram:CoffeeandWhiteboardmarkersFacebook: Coffee and White Board Markers. Like always thanks for your support!!

In this episode, I compare and contrast student behavior from when I first started teaching in 2009 to today. I examine the differences, challenges, and possible solutions to working with students. Like always, thanks for listening, and I look forward to taking you all along for the ride. Opening song: Loudmouth by artist Mantra. 

In this episode, I discuss practical time management tips for teachers to help you balance teaching, marking, parent contact, and well-being. Like always, thanks for listening, and I look forward to taking you all along for the ride!Intro song: Loudmouth by artist Mantra. 

Every teacher has encountered students who seem uninterested, unmotivated, or even resistant to learning. But why does this happen, and what can we do about it?In this episode, I take a look at strategies that can be used to renegade these students. Like always, thanks for listening, and I look forward to taking you all on the ride!Song in the introduction: Loudmouth  (Telling Scenes) - Artist Mantra

In this episode, I take a look at what it is like teaching boys in the high school setting these days. Challenges, strategies that work, and my reflection over the years on how things have changed. Like always, thanks for listening, and I look forward to taking you along for the ride. Opening song: Loudmouth by artist Mantra. 

Planning, resourcing, differentiating, well-being the list goes on. Sometimes, we wish, as teachers, students just understood why we do it! Like always thanks for listening! Opening song: Loudmouth  - Artist Mantra 

In this episode, I focus on PBS in schools. What works, what are the obstacles in the way, and how can we get the most out of the system at a whole school level? Like always, thanks for listening. Opening song: Loudmouth (Telling Scenes) By Mantra. 

In this episode I take a look at the charactersitics that seperates quaility teachers from the rest. Like always thanks for listening and look forward to the ride. Opening song: Loudmouth - song and lyrics by Mantra

First episode for 2025 and it is good to be back! In this episode, I take a look at my goals, plans and dream scenarios for teaching this year. Like always thanks for listening and looking forward to the ride. Opening song: Loudmouth - Song and lyrics by Mantra

Final episode for 2024! We appreicate all your support this far. The fellas will be back at it early 2025. 

In this episode, we dive into what it is like to teach Generation Z students. Their learning characteristics, what works in the classroom, and what should be avoided. Like always, thanks for listening.

In this episode, we discuss Teacher burnout. What it looks like, how to manage it, and how to get the best for your teaching. Like always, thanks for listening, and we look forward to taking you all along for the ride.

In this episode, the fellas talk about what it takes to be a memorable teacher and have a lasting impact on your students. Thanks for listening and we look forward to taking you all along for the ride. 

Everyone fears what the classroom will be like before they start teaching. We definitely did! In this episode, the fellas discuss and break down common fears and the actual reality faced in the first year of teaching. Like always thanks for listening and we look forward to taking you all along for the ride. 

In this episode, the fellas look at the trends that have emerged in teaching over the last five years. Like always thanks for listening and we look forward to taking you all along for the ride. 

We apologise in advance for the sound quality of this episode! We promise to do better in the next episodes!Like always, thanks for listening, and we look forward to taking you all along for the ride!

You have to make mistakes to learn, but sometimes people have already been there and done that, so there is no need to commit yourself. In this episode, Myles and Sean talk about common mistakes in teaching and what to avoid. Thanks for listening and we look forward to taking you all along for the ride!

Introducing Sean Brentall, our new Cohost, to cover Jody in his absence. Sean has nearly two decades of experience in the teaching game. Tune in for Sean's breakdown of his teaching career so far!Like always thanks for listening and we look forward to taking you all along for the ride. 

Myles flies solo on this episode, discussing his take on the most essential skills for teaching. Like always, thanks for listening, and we will catch you in the next episode!

In this episode, we take a look at the best teaching advice we have received on our teaching journey. Like always, thanks for listening, and we look forward to taking you all along for the ride.