Back To Class With Mr.H

Some people spend years trying to figure out who they are.Joe Gannone knew early and wasn't afraid to act on it.A former student with a big personality and an even bigger presence, Joe jumped headfirst into the world at just 18 years old. A champion wrestler, natural connector, and a strategic thinker, Joe didn't wait for permission or a perfect plan--he stepped into the fray and built momentum through grit, relationships, and belief in himself.In this episode of Back To Class With Mr. H, Joe reflects on the confidence that set him apart early on, the lessons learned outside the classroom, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. We talk about leadership, calculated risk, and why some paths require trusting your instincts long before others understand the vision. America's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast

National Champion Chuck Everson joins Mr. H to talk about what championship moments really give us==and what they don't. From Villanova to everyday life; this conversation explores humility, gratitude, and the relationships that matter long after the spotlight fades.Class may end, but the learning never does.America's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast

Milan Cheeks returns for Part 2 to reflect on confidence, mentorship, and the power of being believed in. A reminder that one voice--at the right moment--can change everythingAmerica's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast

What happens when learning doesn't stop at the classroom door?In this episode of Back To Class With Mr. H, former student Milan Cheeks returns to 1511 to reflect on the journey of finding direction in a world that's changing faster than ever. In an age shaped by technology, AI, and constant noise, Milan shares what really mattered in helping him discover his path--curiosity, adaptability, and the confidence to keep learning.This conversation isn't about grades or resumes , it's about the moments, mentors, and mindset that help a student grow into who they're meant to become.For teachers, parents, and students alike, Milan's story is a reminder that while tools and technology will keep evolving, the human side of learning will always matter most.Because when class ends, the learning doesn't.America's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast

    Come with us on the journey of Angel Velasquez, who went from a disengaged student to a community leader and mentor who is helping shape the lives of the next generation.In this episode Angel opens up about the real story behind his growth:--The struggles he had as a student--the mentors who saw something in him he didn't see in himself--the spark that turned him towards barbering--how the shop became his classroom and the impact it has on students     Today Angel is a successful Barber with a loyal following, but more importantly Angel is teaching in the BOCES barbering program, where students love him for his honesty, humor, and heart he brings to the classroom everyday.This episode is about purpose and what it means to step into the role you were born to play. This episode is the perfect reminder that sometimes the students who challenge you the most...end up making the biggest impact.   If you need a reminder that people who lead with heart reap the most benefits. This one will hit you right in the chest.America's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast

      Some students walk into your classroom and leave a mark that lasts forever. Dylan was one of those kids. In High School; Dylan had all the potential in the world. He was smart, funny, athletic with a big personality. But like with many teenagers not everything clicked for Dylan at that time. The want was seemingly there, but the execution did not always match the desire. Dylan was battling an unseen illness that was wearing him down physically from the inside out. On the surface, It looked like Dylan was not "all in" in the classroom or on the basketball court.       Dylan's illness was diagnosed and it was a great relief to "put a name to the face" of his  sickness, From there, Dylan made a pivot that changed his life, The Marines. Fast forward to today and Dylan is serving as a leader in the Marine Corps----a place where discipline, honor, and selflessness aren't just core values--they are a way of life.In this episode Dylan talks about:The moment he knew he needed a reset.How struggle, structure, and maturity shaped him.What he wants High School Kids to know about resilience and responsibility.   This episode is for anyone who feel they are falling behind or stuck in a situation, any parent who is worried if their kid hasn't figured it out yet, and educators who realize the path to purpose is not always a straight line.Thanks for coming Back To Class With Mr. H America's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast

What does it mean to show up—every single day—with heart, humor, and humility? In this powerful episode of Back to Class, Mr. H sits down with one of the most quietly impactful figures to ever walk the halls of his school: CC Cosgrove.As the beloved manager of the basketball team and a daily presence in Room 1511, CC wasn’t known for academic accolades or athletic feats—but for something far more rare: presence, kindness, and unwavering commitment. Diagnosed on the autism spectrum at a young age, CC carved out a space not just for himself—but for every teammate, classmate, and teacher who had the privilege of knowing him.Together, we look back at:The championship season where CC’s jokes were the glue.The day he showed up during a snowstorm… in shorts.Why “you can’t teach heart” is more than just a quote—it’s a legacy.America's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast

In this deeply personal episode, Mr. H reunites with former Coach and mentor, Rich Wrase-- a man whose passion, honesty, and belief in others helped shape not just players, but futures. Coach Wrase was more than a clipboard and a whistle. He was the one who reminded Mr. H that working with kids mattered, and that 5 minute conversation outside of a school bus changed the direction of Mr. H's life and put him in the classroom and the court where he belonged.Rich has had a Hall of Fame career: 2 State Championships at Westhampton Beach                                                               2 National Titles at Suffolk Community College                                                                NBA Scout the Lakers and HornetsThe real wins were the lessons learned along the way. Rich Wrase's journey is a masterclass in impact, integrity, and heart.America's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast

Mr. H reconnects with former student Nicole Johnson, now a yoga instructor and wellness guide, for a conversation that flows from laughter to introspection — much like a great yoga class. As they revisit classroom memories and explore Nicole’s journey into mindfulness and movement, the episode stretches beyond the physical to explore balance, breath, and the ways we learn to carry ourselves through life.What begins with tight hamstrings and a hesitant downward dog turns into a thoughtful reflection on healing, identity, and the importance of showing up — on the mat, and in the world.A mix of humor, heart, and just enough discomfort to spark growth, this episode reminds us that the most important lessons often come when we’re willing to bend.America's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast

 In this episode of Back to Class with Mr. H, award-winning author and podcaster Sara Lohse reconnects with Mr. H to reflect on her journey from the classroom to the creative world. Sara shares inspiring stories, hard-earned lessons, and valuable advice for the next generation of dreamers, creators, and storytellers. Tune in to Hey Hanlon, You Call This a Podcast? for authentic conversation, laughter, and wisdom from one of the best voices in the podcasting world. America's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast

Episode 1: Hometown Heroes Who Built Success at HomeWhat does it mean to stay rooted — to build a life, a family, and a legacy in the very place where it all began? In this opening episode of Back to Class with Mr. H, Dalton and Dene McCarthy share their journey of becoming leaders in the same community where they once walked the halls as students.From balancing careers and family to guiding others by example, their story is a reminder that real success isn’t always about chasing the spotlight — sometimes it’s about making the biggest impact right where you’re planted.Along the way, we explore how lessons from the classroom and the court carry into leadership, community service, and raising the next generation. It’s a conversation that sets the tone for the BTC vision: reconnecting with the people who shaped us, and building something bigger for the future.And this is just the beginning — Back to Class with Mr. H is not only about nostalgia and stories. It’s about sparking new conversations, and laying the groundwork for education initiatives that inspire students, families, and communities for years to come.America's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast

Back to Class with Mr. H is more than a podcast—it’s a homecoming. A chalk-dusted reunion between a retired teacher and the students whose stories are still unfolding.For 25 years, I taught 7th grade social studies and coached basketball in Room 1511. Every day, I wrote a quote on the board. Every week, I tried to reach kids not just through content, but through connection. When I retired, I realized something powerful: my students weren’t done teaching me.In each episode, I reconnect with a former student where life has taken them—home, work, or somewhere unexpected. We share a toast (never on camera) and talk about:Who they were thenWho they’ve becomeWhat they want the next generation to knowSome are CEOs, nurses, artists, soldiers, barbers, authors, or teachers. Some had straight A’s, others barely made it to graduation. All have something to say. All shaped me.This isn’t nostalgia—it’s proof that education doesn’t end at the bell. Teachers are forever. Impact echoes. Classroom bonds don’t break—they evolve.Our mission:Celebrate the teacher-student connection long after the final grade is given.Honor those who grow up and give back.Spotlight the sparks that lit the way.Inspire anyone who still believes in the power of showing up.New episodes every other Thursday.🍏 Class is back in session.America's #1 Feel-Good Education Podcast