Tell Me a Teaching Story

In this episode, I sit down with Jordie and Mason Amundson, a dynamic teaching couple from my community—she’s a school psychologist, and he’s a phys ed teacher. They share how they approach education with their unique styles, but with the same goal: building meaningful connections with students. Stick around until the end for a delightful “dessert” story from Mary Findeis. Her you-won’t-believe-it tale that sticks out from a long career in teaching will leave you smiling, proving once again that teachers really do have the best stories.

In this episode, we explore 10 simple steps to help teachers move from stress to joy in the classroom. Inspired by an Instagram reel of a woman overcoming fear while tandem skydiving, we break down practical strategies—like using visual schedules, creating connections, and even ditching bad assignments—that can shift your teaching experience. Whether it's taking students outside or building community with food, these easy tips can help you rediscover the fun in teaching and bring more ease into your day. Tune in for small, actionable steps to help you soar in your teaching practice!

This episode is all about relationships: how to build them, how to maintain them, and how to even have them with prickly people. Join Evi for some stories, tips, and tricks about building relationships in your classroom. This episode will leave you inspired, ready to put some energy out into the world, curious about others, curious to connect.

Drawing from his military background, Austin shares classroom-tested tactics from his first year teaching. Through accountability and gradual release of structure, Austin shares a story of a struggling student going from failing four subjects to passing them all. This episode highlights the transformative power of personalized education, of listening to students and responding to their why. Listen in to find out which is harder: the Marine Corps or Teaching. The answer might just surprise you.

Kendra Matkins shares her infectious energy for teaching. Her hilarious tale of a Ground Hog Day project gone wrong will have you laughing. And listeners will find themselves nodding, relating to familiar struggles with classroom technology. This episode has it all, offering a blend of humor and heart, reminding listeners of the joy and absurdity that come with a lifetime spent in learning and laughing with students.

Join us for our first-ever guest on the podcast, Sebastian Boelhower! As a first year, K-12 band and music teacher, Sebastian brings a joyful and grounded approach to teaching that you will find inspiring. His stories--of a crazy first day, of two bands coming together, and of a beatboxing priest--will leave you smiling. He reminds us what it means to do this hard and important work, as we focus on relationships and connect with students.

In this installment, join Evi as she candidly shares a laugh-out-loud tale of an embarrassing teaching mishap. Following the laughter, be touched by a heartfelt story that underscores the significance of listening to students and at times embracing a "kinda risky" teaching approach. This episode is a reminder that, in teaching, the best stories combine laughter, genuine connections, and lessons that help us grow.

In this episode, Dr. Wusk shares a compelling story from her early teaching days, highlighting the power of giving students the space to surprise us. This episode may also compare working with a challenging class to the feeling of having your soul sucked dry by a death eater ... you've been warned.

In episode two, Dr. Wusk explores the core questions of why she became a teacher and why she started this podcast. Drawing inspiration from influential women in her life, she shares her personal teaching journey, emphasizing the transformative impact teachers can have. The episode concludes with a powerful quote, leaving listeners inspired to embrace the meaningful role of teaching and contribute to reshaping the narrative around education. Join us for this reflective and uplifting reflection on what it means to teach and teach with joy.

"Tell Me a Teaching Story" is a podcast for teachers. This episode has two narratives: a Taylor Swift bracelet bead debacle and an unforgettable rope swing adventure. Through laughter and reflection, we remind each other that teaching is hard, but it is so worth it. Tune in for a dose of positivity and encouragement, and be reminded why teaching matters.