Teachers have important things to say and share about teaching, life, teaching, and learning. A podcast for teachers brings you the stories and inspiration behind the scenes from classrooms around the globe. Honest conversations about teacher tired and passion-filled teaching allow educators to speak their truth on the trials and treasures of being a teacher.
OTT 261: When Halloween Takes Over: Keeping Learning Fun (and Focused) in October
Keep learning on track during October’s Halloween excitement with practical classroom strategies, themed activities, and management tips for a fun yet focused season.
OTT 260: How to Weave Science Into Your ELA Block (Without Losing Your Mind)
Learn how to seamlessly weave science into your reading and writing block using informational text and simple investigations—boosting engagement and saving time.
OTT 259: Screens, Focus, and Reconnecting in REAL Life
Combat digital distraction with simple, effective strategies to help students be present, focus, and engage in real-world learning—without competing with technology.
OTT 258: 3 Ways to Keep Reading Routines Strong When Curriculum Kicks In
Don’t let pre-assessments and curriculum demands steal your read-aloud time. Discover 3 strategies to keep reading routines strong and spark a lasting love for books in your students.
OTT 257: Wally Is Worried—Helping Students (and Ourselves) Navigate Big Feelings
Discover Wally Is Worried, Erin Waters’ new children’s book that teaches kids ages 4–8 simple strategies to cope with anxiety through story, collage art, and classroom resources.
OTT 256: From Teacher to Author: Christine Devane's Journey with Elephant Beach
Discover how teacher-turned-author Christine Devan brought her children’s book Elephant Beach to life, sharing insights on patience, shyness, and connecting with young readers.
OTT 255: Building Reading Routines That Stick (and Don’t Drain You)
Learn how to create joyful, sustainable reading routines that boost comprehension, strengthen classroom community, and make literacy instruction feel effortless.
OTT 254: Break the Ice Without the Cringe – Fun Ways to Build Classroom Community
Ditch the awkward icebreakers. Discover simple, fun activities that build authentic classroom connections, boost trust, and create a positive learning environment from day one.
OTT 253: What to Do Before You Get Sick – Smart Planning for the Inevitable
Stop stressing about lesson plans when you’re sick. Learn how to create simple, effective emergency sub plans so you can rest without worrying about your classroom.
OTT 252: Teaching Sanity 101
Tackle the top 3 teacher concerns for the first weeks of school—routines, behavior management, and classroom readiness—with practical, confidence-boosting strategies that actually work.
OTT: 251 The Gentle Teacher's Guide to Starting the School Year Strong
Ease into the new school year with 3 simple, sustainable teaching strategies that prevent burnout. Learn how to build routines, relationships, and a calm classroom environment from day one.
OTT 250: STEM Books That Win Over Reluctant Readers
Bridge the gap between STEM and reading with 3 powerful picture books and hands-on activities. Perfect for reluctant readers who thrive on building, curiosity, and creative exploration.
OTT 249: Makerspace Magic: Transforming Reluctant Readers into Confident Explorers
Discover how simple makerspace activities can re-engage reluctant readers and transform your reading block. Learn practical ways to combine storytelling with building, creativity, and problem-solving.
OTT 248: Transforming Story Time: Hands-On STEM Challenges for Young Readers
Turn storytime into a STEM adventure! Discover creative ways to help kids connect with books through simple, hands-on challenges that build comprehension, empathy, and joy in reading.
OTT 247: Beyond the Page: 3 Simple STEM Challenges That Make Books Come Alive
Discover how hands-on makerspace projects can turn reluctant readers into engaged learners. Learn practical, low-cost ways to bring stories to life using STEM and creativity in your literacy instruction.
OTT 246: 3 Simple Tweaks That Can Transform Your Child’s Reading Routine
Ever wondered why your child resists reading time, despite your best efforts? The solution might be simpler than you think. Rather than completely overhauling your reading routine, small, thoughtful shifts can create breakthrough moments where resistance transforms into excitement.
OTT 245: Building Confidence: Transforming Your Child's Reading Identity
What if your child's biggest reading obstacle isn't their skills, but their belief about themselves as readers?
OTT 244: How to Help Kids Who Struggle with Reading: 3 Frustrations You CAN Fix
Reading battles don't have to be your nightly reality. Behind every "I hate reading" declaration, focus struggle, or mechanical page-turning lies an opportunity for transformation.
OTT 243: How to Make Reading More Fun Than Screen Time: 3 Simple Strategies for Struggling Readers
Ever noticed how your child lights up for screen time but groans at the sight of a book? The secret lies in brain chemistry. When children feel emotionally connected to reading, their brains release dopamine—the exact same reward chemical triggered during screen time. The key isn't forcing books or demonizing screens; it's creating reading experiences that naturally produce those feel-good chemicals kids crave.