Teach Me, Teacher
Designed from the ground up as a no nonsense approach to teacher development, this podcast is your gateway to bettering your craft (and having some laughs along the way). It is a show for you. To help you better your craft, learn new skills, and get ideas to fuel your own. It is a show for anyone in the field of education, and has featured teachers and administrators from all over to offer their unique perspectives on some of the most relevant and hottest topics in public schools. Teach Me, Teacher has won several "best of" awards and has featured some of the top minds in education to date.
info_outline
#405 Education Needs to Evolve with Dr. Anindya Kundu (pt.2)
01/26/2026
#405 Education Needs to Evolve with Dr. Anindya Kundu (pt.2)
I am thrilled to welcome back sociologist and education thought-leader Dr. Anindya Kundu for a powerful conversation about what it truly takes to lead schools and communities toward meaningful change. You may remember Anindya from our earlier discussions on . In this return visit, we go deeper into why traditional models of leadership no longer serve our schools — and how we must evolve our approaches to meet the challenges of today’s educational landscape. Anindya’s new book, , offers a compelling roadmap for rethinking leadership in education by elevating the voices and experiences of students, educators, families, and leaders who are leading in new ways. Drawing from narrative research and sociological insight, he challenges the idea that leadership is something done topeople and reframes it as a collective practice. In this conversation, we explore: Why educational leadership must move beyond managerial efficiency How stories from multiple stakeholders help us understand what real leadership looks like in unsettled times How we got to where we are today with the lack of trust in public education Whether you’re an educator, administrator, parent, or advocate, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership and inspire you to engage in the higher-order work of transforming systems, not just coping with them.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/39886510
info_outline
#404 Who's to Blame for the State of Education? with Dr. Anindya Kundu (pt.1)
01/19/2026
#404 Who's to Blame for the State of Education? with Dr. Anindya Kundu (pt.1)
I am thrilled to welcome back sociologist and education thought-leader Dr. Anindya Kundu for a powerful conversation about what it truly takes to lead schools and communities toward meaningful change. You may remember Anindya from our earlier discussions on . In this return visit, we go deeper into why traditional models of leadership no longer serve our schools — and how we must evolve our approaches to meet the challenges of today’s educational landscape. Anindya’s new book, , offers a compelling roadmap for rethinking leadership in education by elevating the voices and experiences of students, educators, families, and leaders who are leading in new ways. Drawing from narrative research and sociological insight, he challenges the idea that leadership is something done to people and reframes it as a collective practice. In this conversation, we explore: Why educational leadership must move beyond managerial efficiency How stories from multiple stakeholders help us understand what real leadership looks like in unsettled times How we got to where we are today with the lack of trust in public education Whether you’re an educator, administrator, parent, or advocate, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership and inspire you to engage in the higher-order work of transforming systems, not just coping with them.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/39787965
info_outline
#403 The Digital Delusion with Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath (pt.2)
01/12/2026
#403 The Digital Delusion with Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath (pt.2)
On this week’s Teach Me, Teacher we sit down with Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath — neuroscientist, educator, and author — to dive deep into one of the most urgent debates in education today: the role of technology in schools. All of the discussion items in this episode are inspired by and directed by Jared’s latest book: The Digital Delusion: How Classroom Technology Harms Our Kids’ Learning — And How To Help Them Thrive Again — In this powerful conversation, Jared breaks down the myth of educational technology. His new book takes a rigorous, research-grounded view of why digital tools — once hailed as revolutionary — often fail to deliver on their promises and can actually hinder real learning. Jared and I explore how technology went from a supplemental tool to a central feature of classrooms. Fueled by optimism, investment, and the idea that digital tools automatically mean innovation, schools adopted laptops, tablets, apps, and AI — often without deep evidence that these tools improve learning. Drawing on decades of cognitive research, Jared explains how digital distraction — from multitasking to constant notifications — can disrupt memory, attention, and deep thinking. These are the very processes that real learningdepends on. Rather than simply adding more tech, we talked about what happens when schools put teachers, relationships, and focused engagement back at the center of learning. Jared makes the case that most student-facing screens should be phased out — not because technology is inherently bad, but because its dominant role undermines learning outcomes and critical thinking skills We also cover what better education actually looks like: classrooms where print media, discussion, reflection, and deep practice take priority — and where technology serves only highly specific, evidence-based purposes rather than driving instruction. As schools grapple with stagnant achievement, reduced attention spans, and rising concerns about student well-being, this episode challenges the assumption that more technology equals better learning. It’s time for educators, parents, and policy makers to rethink the role of ed tech — and that starts with honest conversations like this one.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/39697030
info_outline
#402 How Ed Tech is Harming Our Kids with Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath (pt.1)
01/05/2026
#402 How Ed Tech is Harming Our Kids with Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath (pt.1)
On this week’s Teach Me, Teacher we sit down with Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath — neuroscientist, educator, and author — to dive deep into one of the most urgent debates in education today: the role of technology in schools. All of the discussion items in this episode are inspired by and directed by Jared's latest book: The Digital Delusion: How Classroom Technology Harms Our Kids’ Learning — And How To Help Them Thrive Again — In this powerful conversation, Jared breaks down the myth of educational technology. His new book takes a rigorous, research-grounded view of why digital tools — once hailed as revolutionary — often fail to deliver on their promises and can actually hinder real learning. Jared and I explore how technology went from a supplemental tool to a central feature of classrooms. Fueled by optimism, investment, and the idea that digital tools automatically mean innovation, schools adopted laptops, tablets, apps, and AI — often without deep evidence that these tools improve learning. Drawing on decades of cognitive research, Jared explains how digital distraction — from multitasking to constant notifications — can disrupt memory, attention, and deep thinking. These are the very processes that real learning depends on. Rather than simply adding more tech, we talked about what happens when schools put teachers, relationships, and focused engagement back at the center of learning. Jared makes the case that most student-facing screens should be phased out — not because technology is inherently bad, but because its dominant role undermines learning outcomes and critical thinking skills We also cover what better education actually looks like: classrooms where print media, discussion, reflection, and deep practice take priority — and where technology serves only highly specific, evidence-based purposes rather than driving instruction. As schools grapple with stagnant achievement, reduced attention spans, and rising concerns about student well-being, this episode challenges the assumption that more technology equals better learning. It’s time for educators, parents, and policy makers to rethink the role of ed tech — and that starts with honest conversations like this one.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/39609915
info_outline
#401 Resolutions for Teachers in 2026
12/29/2025
#401 Resolutions for Teachers in 2026
Hello everyone! In this episode of the podcast, we go over what resolutions teachers should embrace this coming year. The last several years have been difficult in the profession and for Jacob Chastain personally, but times change, we grow and we move on. The resolutions featured here are inspired by both personal and professional needs and hopefully provide a focus for the coming year. Resolutions in this episode include: Show people the true nature of what we do Advocate for yourself and your teams Change it up and experiment Be the teacher you needed as a kid If you have missed previous resolution episodes, they can be found below.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/39550985
info_outline
The Tool to Finally Engage Students in Writing (Redux)
12/22/2025
The Tool to Finally Engage Students in Writing (Redux)
Hello everyone! Writefully Empowered is HERE! It’s my second book, all about creating a writing workshop that empowers young people to be their best and write pieces they care about. In this episode, I talk with my co-host of (my paused second podcast) about her experience with reading the book, what her takeaways are, and what other educators might find useful in it too. This episode previously aired when the book was released. .
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/39509870
info_outline
Empowering Inclusion with Melinda Arnost (Greatest Hits)
12/15/2025
Empowering Inclusion with Melinda Arnost (Greatest Hits)
Hello everyone! If you have listened to the podcast for a significant amount of time, you have probably heard me talk about how my son is autistic. It has been a journey, for sure, but something that has been helpful along the way has been all of the great educators who have supported him and his needs. With that said, I couldn’t be more excited to bring my talk with Melinda Arnost to you. She is the author of the upcoming book, Empowering Inclusion, and a passionate educator. Melinda is exactly the kind of educator we love to have on Teach Me, Teacher: passionate, innovative, and deeply in love with the work it takes to serve all students. This episode originally appeared as episode #184 of the podcast
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/39405915
info_outline
#400 How Technology Can Support Literacy (Tinsley Galyean pt.2)
12/09/2025
#400 How Technology Can Support Literacy (Tinsley Galyean pt.2)
In this episode, we sit down with Tinsley Galyean—co-founder of Curious Learning and author of the forthcoming book —to challenge everything we think we know about technology, kids, and learning. As debates rage over screen time, AI, and the impact of digital tools on child development, Galyean offers a powerful counter-narrative: what if technology, used intentionally, could become one of the most transformative forces in global childhood literacy? Drawing on fieldwork across Ethiopia, India, Bangladesh, South Africa, and beyond, Tinsley reveals how low-cost smartphones and child-driven learning apps are helping children learn to read in their mother tongue—even in communities with no formal schooling. We explore why curiosity is the secret engine of learning, how tech can support (not replace) human connection, and why it’s time to reexamine the role technology can and should play in childhood literacy. If you’re an educator, parent, or leader searching for evidence-based insights on technology and kids, digital learning, or the future of literacy, this conversation will expand your thinking and push you to reframe what’s possible.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/39332190
info_outline
#399 Reframing Tech and Literacy with Tinsley Galyean (pt.1)
12/01/2025
#399 Reframing Tech and Literacy with Tinsley Galyean (pt.1)
In this episode, we sit down with Tinsley Galyean—co-founder of Curious Learning and author of the forthcoming book —to challenge everything we think we know about technology, kids, and learning. As debates rage over screen time, AI, and the impact of digital tools on child development, Galyean offers a powerful counter-narrative: what if technology, used intentionally, could become one of the most transformative forces in global childhood literacy? Drawing on fieldwork across Ethiopia, India, Bangladesh, South Africa, and beyond, Tinsley reveals how low-cost smartphones and child-driven learning apps are helping children learn to read in their mother tongue—even in communities with no formal schooling. We explore why curiosity is the secret engine of learning, how tech can support (not replace) human connection, and why it’s time to reexamine the role technology can and should play in childhood literacy. If you’re an educator, parent, or leader searching for evidence-based insights on technology and kids, digital learning, or the future of literacy, this conversation will expand your thinking and push you to reframe what’s possible.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/39216120
info_outline
180 Days with Penny Kittle — Greatest Hits
11/24/2025
180 Days with Penny Kittle — Greatest Hits
Hello everyone and happy Thanksgiving break! We will be back to our regular scheduled programming next week, but for our off week, let's revisit one of the top minds in education to look at reading and writing practices that actually work in secondary classrooms. NOTE: This episode featured a giveaway that has already been honored. If you’re in ELA, you probably . If you don’t know who she is, you’re in for a treat, regardless if you teach ELA or another subject. In this episode, Penny and I discuss her new book (co-written with Kelly Gallagher), and how we can better our literacy practices and deepen the learning of our students. We hit on: Beliefs that drive teaching decisions Why teaching a LOVE for reading and writing is paramount The power of modeling The need for conferencing with students …and much much more. Enjoy the show.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/39153200
info_outline
#398 Ruthless Equity (Ken Williams pt.3)
11/17/2025
#398 Ruthless Equity (Ken Williams pt.3)
This week, we’re back with Part 3 of my conversation with Ken Williams — and we’re pushing even deeper into what real leadership looks like when the excuses are stripped away. In this installment, we go beyond the question of whether teachers matter and dig into the systems, habits, and mindsets that either amplify teacher expertise or quietly suffocate it. Because here’s the truth far too many leaders avoid: You can’t claim to believe in teachers while building a school that doesn’t trust them. We talk about how some schools unintentionally create environments where demographics set the narrative, expectations shrink, and teacher talent is overshadowed by fear, compliance, or “initiatives” that don’t move the needle. And we explore the opposite—what it looks like when leaders actively remove barriers, create clarity, and build cultures where teachers are empowered to be the experts they were hired to be. This episode gets into: Why “context” can’t become a convenient excuse for low accountability How leaders can shift from managing teachers to developing them What high-functioning schools do differently — no matter the zip code The mindsets that help leaders create conditions where every teacher can succeed Why student demographics must never determine adult expectations Ken pulls no punches as we examine what it really takes for leaders to support teachers in any school, with any students, under any circumstances. This is the deeper work — the work that transforms schools from the inside out. If you’re ready to move past rhetoric and toward real leadership that elevates teacher expertise, this is the episode. Learn more about Ken’s work at Unfold the Soul and check out his book Ruthless Equity.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/39061950
info_outline
#397 How Schools Make Teachers Invisible (Ken Williams pt.2)
11/10/2025
#397 How Schools Make Teachers Invisible (Ken Williams pt.2)
This week, I sit down with Ken Williams — educator, speaker, author of Ruthless Equity, and founder of Unfold the Soul — to dig into a question that hits the core of what schools are becoming: Do teachers still matter? In far too many places, we’ve slipped into treating demographics like destiny. Schools get so wrapped up in predicting outcomes based on factors kids can’t control that teachers end up feeling obsolete before they even step into the room. When we assume what students can’t do, we quietly remove the people who can change everything: the teachers. If we actually want better schools, we have to treat teachers like the experts they are and let them do what only they can do. Because kids from every background and every circumstance can learn when we trust and empower the people closest to them. Ken brings his trademark clarity and candor as we dig into how schools can rebuild belief in teachers and what leaders must do to support that shift. It’s real, it’s challenging, and it’s the kind of conversation that refuses to settle for easy answers. Learn more about Ken’s work at Unfold the Soul and check out his book Ruthless Equity.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/38974280
info_outline
#396 Do Teachers ACTUALLY Matter? with Ken Williams (pt.1)
11/07/2025
#396 Do Teachers ACTUALLY Matter? with Ken Williams (pt.1)
This week, I sit down with Ken Williams, educator, speaker, and author of Ruthless Equity and founder of Unfold the Soul, to wrestle with one of the toughest questions in education today: Do teachers still matter? In too many schools, leadership decisions, policies, and even cultural norms seem to have already decided what kids can and cannot do — leaving teachers feeling like their impact is secondary. But if we truly believe teachers matter (and we say we do), why don’t our practices reflect that belief? Ken brings his signature honesty and insight as we unpack how schools can reclaim belief in the power of teachers — and what leaders must do to support them. This conversation is real, challenging, and deeply necessary for anyone who refuses to accept mediocrity in education. Learn more about Ken’s work at Unfold the Soul and check out his book Ruthless Equity.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/38932205
info_outline
#395 High School Students Need to Be Engaged Too!
10/27/2025
#395 High School Students Need to Be Engaged Too!
High school kids are tough to reach… but maybe that’s the fun part. In this episode, we’re talking about engagement that actually works—finding that ONE thing that makes your lessons hit different. Maybe it’s a wild outfit. A totally new lesson design. A classroom setup that surprises them. Something weird, bold, or uniquely you. Because when you make it your own… that’s when kids connect. That’s when it sticks. Listen now on Teach Me, Teacher — where passion meets practice, and every classroom becomes a story worth telling.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/38788460
info_outline
#394 Leading People, Not Buildings (Carrie Jackson pt.2)
10/21/2025
#394 Leading People, Not Buildings (Carrie Jackson pt.2)
Hello everyone! This week I’m joined by Carrie Jackson, the incredible principal of Allen High School in Texas — and someone I’ve had the privilege of working alongside in my career. Carrie embodies what it means to lead with humility, compassion, and care. In our conversation, we dig deep into what real leadership looks like — not the kind that leans on authority or power, but the kind that sees people first. We talk about the difference between power and influence, and how the best leaders earn trust and respect not through force, but through consistency, empathy, and a genuine commitment to the people they serve. It’s a reminder that leadership isn’t about control — it’s about connection.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/38734005
info_outline
#393 Humility in Leadership with Carrie Jackson (pt.1)
10/14/2025
#393 Humility in Leadership with Carrie Jackson (pt.1)
Hello everyone! This week I’m joined by Carrie Jackson, the incredible principal of Allen High School in Texas — and someone I’ve had the privilege of working alongside in my career. Carrie embodies what it means to lead with humility, compassion, and care. In our conversation, we dig deep into what real leadership looks like — not the kind that leans on authority or power, but the kind that sees people first. We talk about the difference between power and influence, and how the best leaders earn trust and respect not through force, but through consistency, empathy, and a genuine commitment to the people they serve. It’s a reminder that leadership isn’t about control — it’s about connection.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/38572635
info_outline
#392 Applying the Science of Reading (Erica Woolway pt.2)
09/29/2025
#392 Applying the Science of Reading (Erica Woolway pt.2)
Hello everyone! We have done on the many aspects of reading and writing. We have covered pedagogy, research, cutting edge ideas and a return to form. One of the biggest topics that have graced this show is the topic of The Science of Reading. Heard of it? To dive into the latest research, findings, and thinking around the subject, I have brought on one of the experts in the field, Erica Woolway. Erica Woolway is the President and Chief Academic Officer of Teach Like a Champion. Erica is a former kindergarten teacher and elementary school leader. She is coauthor of Practice Perfect and Reading Reconsidered. In this episode we cover what SoR is, the debate around what works in reading, and the push for a more in-depth approach to reading instruction (among other odds and ends.) Enjoy! Teach Like a Champion Links Buy the book: Pilot the Reading Reconsidered Curriculum – available to purchase just one unit for £590 : Come to our workshops: Have us come lead training for you (in-person or remotely): Doug LinkedIn: X: @Doug_Lemov ; Blog: Erica LinkedIn: X: Colleen LinkedIn: X: Comments Offon #391 Guide to the Science of Reading with Erica Woolway (pt.1) Share this episode!
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/38389160
info_outline
#391 Guide to the Science of Reading with Erica Woolway (pt.1)
09/22/2025
#391 Guide to the Science of Reading with Erica Woolway (pt.1)
Hello everyone! We have done on the many aspects of reading and writing. We have covered pedagogy, research, cutting edge ideas and a return to form. One of the biggest topics that have graced this show is the topic of The Science of Reading. Heard of it? To dive into the latest research, findings, and thinking around the subject, I have brought on one of the experts in the field, Erica Woolway. Erica Woolway is the President and Chief Academic Officer of Teach Like a Champion. Erica is a former kindergarten teacher and elementary school leader. She is coauthor of Practice Perfect and Reading Reconsidered. In this episode we cover what SoR is, the debate around what works in reading, and the push for a more in-depth approach to reading instruction (among other odds and ends.) Enjoy! Teach Like a Champion Links Buy the book: Pilot the Reading Reconsidered Curriculum – available to purchase just one unit for £590 : Come to our workshops: Have us come lead training for you (in-person or remotely): Doug LinkedIn: X: @Doug_Lemov ; Blog: Erica LinkedIn: X: Colleen LinkedIn: X:
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/38301480
info_outline
PSA
09/16/2025
PSA
In light of the world and the tragedies that have unfolded, Teach Me, Teacher skipped this week. In the meantime, a PSA for the audience.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/38234395
info_outline
#390 Is AI Making Cheating Worse? with Pam Ochoa
09/08/2025
#390 Is AI Making Cheating Worse? with Pam Ochoa
Welcome everyone to the Craft & Draft podcast! We are so excited to bring you what we love, talking with you about workshop, literacy, writing, reading, and real world teaching. In this episode, Jacob and Pam address the issues of student cheating and AI. Jacob poses the question of whether cheating is a greater problem today than in the past. Pam shares how she has seen cheating throughout her career and determined that it has always been a large problem. Jacob explains how technology changes seem to instill fear regarding cheating, such as Google, so, AI is just another one of those changes.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/38124485
info_outline
#389 What Bell to Bell Really Means (Josh Monroe pt.2)
09/02/2025
#389 What Bell to Bell Really Means (Josh Monroe pt.2)
In this heartfelt new episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we sit down with Josh Monroe—the inspiring 5th-grade teacher behind the TikTok sensation @mrmonroeandnala, where he shares heartwarming and thought-provoking classroom moments alongside his therapy dog, Nala Josh is also the co-host of the acclaimed podcast , where he and fellow educator Tom Whisinnand explore what keeps teachers motivated while uplifting educator voices from around the world. Together, we explore the concept of “hidden standards”—the unspoken social expectations like listening empathetically, speaking kindly, and treating one another with respect. Josh shares why teaching content is only half the job and introduces audiences to classroom strategies that embed social-skill building into everyday teaching. Expect practical ideas for cultivating empathy, communication, and ethical behavior—because growing good humans matters as much as grade-level success. Educators and parents, get ready to learn how to turn your classroom or home into a place where kindness is just as important as curriculum—and then some. Tune in now to reframe how we teach, how children learn to engage, and how we all build better communities, one conversation at a time.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/38053915
info_outline
#388 Teaching People While Teaching Content with Josh Monroe (pt.1)
08/25/2025
#388 Teaching People While Teaching Content with Josh Monroe (pt.1)
In this heartfelt new episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we sit down with Josh Monroe—the inspiring 5th-grade teacher behind the TikTok sensation @mrmonroeandnala, where he shares heartwarming and thought-provoking classroom moments alongside his therapy dog, Nala Josh is also the co-host of the acclaimed podcast , where he and fellow educator Tom Whisinnand explore what keeps teachers motivated while uplifting educator voices from around the world. Together, we explore the concept of “hidden standards”—the unspoken social expectations like listening empathetically, speaking kindly, and treating one another with respect. Josh shares why teaching content is only half the job and introduces audiences to classroom strategies that embed social-skill building into everyday teaching. Expect practical ideas for cultivating empathy, communication, and ethical behavior—because growing good humans matters as much as grade-level success. Educators and parents, get ready to learn how to turn your classroom or home into a place where kindness is just as important as curriculum—and then some. Tune in now to reframe how we teach, how children learn to engage, and how we all build better communities, one conversation at a time.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/37943410
info_outline
#387 Actualize Your Worth as a Teacher (Jonathan Alsheimer pt.2)
08/18/2025
#387 Actualize Your Worth as a Teacher (Jonathan Alsheimer pt.2)
Jonathan Alsheimer is , and this conversation is every bit as powerful as his first appearance. If you missed part 1, We dig into what it really means to show up for kids—not just being present in the room, but being fully engaged, intentional, and committed to their success. Jonathan shares how building strong, authentic relationships can transform not only the classroom environment, but also the learning that happens within it. We also tackle one of the biggest balancing acts in education: delivering rigorous, meaningful content while also teaching the life skills, resilience, and character our students need beyond school walls. If you enjoyed our first conversation, you’ll love this one even more. It’s a reminder that great teaching isn’t just about the curriculum—it’s about the connection.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/37857870
info_outline
#386 Teachers are More than Curriculum Presenters with Jonathan Alsheimer (pt.1)
08/11/2025
#386 Teachers are More than Curriculum Presenters with Jonathan Alsheimer (pt.1)
Jonathan Alsheimer is , and this conversation is every bit as powerful as his first appearance. We dig into what it really means to show up for kids—not just being present in the room, but being fully engaged, intentional, and committed to their success. Jonathan shares how building strong, authentic relationships can transform not only the classroom environment, but also the learning that happens within it. We also tackle one of the biggest balancing acts in education: delivering rigorous, meaningful content while also teaching the life skills, resilience, and character our students need beyond school walls. If you enjoyed our first conversation, you’ll love this one even more. It’s a reminder that great teaching isn’t just about the curriculum—it’s about the connection.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/37753455
info_outline
They Don't Want You to Hear This (Season X Intro)
08/04/2025
They Don't Want You to Hear This (Season X Intro)
Welcome to Season X of Teach Me, Teacher—the podcast that refuses to stay silent while public education is under attack. This season, we stand shoulder to shoulder with teachers, parents, and communities across the nation, fighting back against the tech giants, profiteers, and bad actors who want to see our schools shuttered, our classrooms emptied, and our children turned into data points. They want kids to learn from screens, not people. From algorithms, not relationships. They want to strip the soul from education so they can monetize it. But we won’t let them. On Teach Me, Teacher, we believe in the power of real educators, real communities, and real learning. Join us as we expose the threats, elevate voices on the frontlines, and champion the future of public education—one episode at a time.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/37657775
info_outline
#385 Season 9 Ends
06/16/2025
#385 Season 9 Ends
Hello everyone! In this closing episode of Season 9, host Jacob Chastain takes a heartfelt look back at the journey so far. We get real about where the show stands today, the challenges and growth behind the scenes, and the exciting direction we’re headed. Looking ahead to Season 10, big changes are on the horizon—new formats, fresh perspectives, and deeper conversations that push the boundaries of what Teach Me, Teacher has always been about: real talk for real educators. If you’ve been with us since the beginning, or just found us this season, this finale sets the stage for an evolution you won’t want to miss. The best is yet to come. Subscribe now and stay tuned—Season 10 launches soon.
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/37034105
info_outline
#384 Guiding Your Child’s Athletic Journey with Alex Compton and Kevin Dalafu (pt.2)
06/02/2025
#384 Guiding Your Child’s Athletic Journey with Alex Compton and Kevin Dalafu (pt.2)
In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we delve into the transformative power of sports in shaping young minds. Joining us are Coach Alex Compton and Coach Kevin Dalafu, authors of .With over a decade of experience in coaching, parenting, and education, they offer invaluable insights into how sports can be a powerful tool for teaching young people morals, work ethic, and resilience. Drawing from their extensive backgrounds, Compton and Dalafu discuss how youth sports go beyond physical development, serving as a platform for instilling essential life skills. They share practical strategies for parents and coaches to foster environments where young athletes can thrive both on and off the field. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone involved in the development of young athletes, offering a fresh perspective on the integral role sports play in holistic education. Tune in to explore how guiding young athletes through their sports journey can lead to the cultivation of wisdom, resilience, and character. SPONSOR LINK:
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/36812605
info_outline
#384 Guiding Your Child's Athletic Journey with Alex Compton and Kevin Dalafu (pt.1)
05/21/2025
#384 Guiding Your Child's Athletic Journey with Alex Compton and Kevin Dalafu (pt.1)
In this episode of Teach Me, Teacher, we delve into the transformative power of sports in shaping young minds. Joining us are Coach Alex Compton and Coach Kevin Dalafu, authors of .With over a decade of experience in coaching, parenting, and education, they offer invaluable insights into how sports can be a powerful tool for teaching young people morals, work ethic, and resilience. Drawing from their extensive backgrounds, Compton and Dalafu discuss how youth sports go beyond physical development, serving as a platform for instilling essential life skills. They share practical strategies for parents and coaches to foster environments where young athletes can thrive both on and off the field. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone involved in the development of young athletes, offering a fresh perspective on the integral role sports play in holistic education. Tune in to explore how guiding young athletes through their sports journey can lead to the cultivation of wisdom, resilience, and character. SPONSOR LINK:
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/36650750
info_outline
#383 The Politicization of Our Schools (John B. King Jr., Former U.S. Secretary of Education pt.2)
05/13/2025
#383 The Politicization of Our Schools (John B. King Jr., Former U.S. Secretary of Education pt.2)
In part 2 of this powerful episode, host Jacob Chastain sits down with Dr. John B. King Jr., the 10th U.S. Secretary of Education under President Obama, to discuss his new book . They explore Dr. King’s journey from classroom teacher to national education leader, offering a rare insider’s perspective on the state of American education. Together, they unpack the challenges educators face today, including the growing politicization of the profession and its impact on schools and communities. A must-listen for anyone passionate about teaching, policy, and the future of education. John B. King Jr. served in President Barack Obama’s cabinet as the tenth U.S. Secretary of Education. Over the course of his extensive and influential career in public education, he has been a high school social studies teacher, a middle school principal, the first African American and Puerto Rican to serve as New York State Education Commissioner, a college professor, and the president and CEO of the Education Trust, a national education civil rights organization. King is currently the chancellor of the State University of New York (SUNY), the nation’s largest comprehensive system of public higher education. Both of King’s parents were career New York City public school educators. SPONSOR LINK:
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/36556210
info_outline
#382 Teaching, Power, and Policy with John B. King Jr., Former U.S. Secretary of Education (pt.1)
05/05/2025
#382 Teaching, Power, and Policy with John B. King Jr., Former U.S. Secretary of Education (pt.1)
In this powerful episode, host Jacob Chastain sits down with Dr. John B. King Jr., the 10th U.S. Secretary of Education under President Obama, to discuss his new book . They explore Dr. King's journey from classroom teacher to national education leader, offering a rare insider’s perspective on the state of American education. Together, they unpack the challenges educators face today, including the growing politicization of the profession and its impact on schools and communities. A must-listen for anyone passionate about teaching, policy, and the future of education. John B. King Jr. served in President Barack Obama’s cabinet as the tenth U.S. Secretary of Education. Over the course of his extensive and influential career in public education, he has been a high school social studies teacher, a middle school principal, the first African American and Puerto Rican to serve as New York State Education Commissioner, a college professor, and the president and CEO of the Education Trust, a national education civil rights organization. King is currently the chancellor of the State University of New York (SUNY), the nation’s largest comprehensive system of public higher education. Both of King’s parents were career New York City public school educators. SPONSOR LINK:
/episode/index/show/dc087296-b3e8-4b8b-b9e9-ac2c9719d086/id/36433745